Location: Muskingum County, OH | Metro: Morgan County, OH
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $890 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,636 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,979 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,078 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $890 | $103,197 | 0.86% | C |
| 2BR | $1,010 | $153,257 | 0.66% | D |
| 3BR | $1,200 | $204,452 | 0.59% | F |
| 4BR | $1,410 | $241,493 | 0.58% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
25.5% of residents in ZIP code 43756, McConnelsville, OH, are renters, indicating a significant demand for rental properties in the area. The $168,650 median home value reflects the overall property values but does not directly impact rental investments. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should focus on the $980 Fair Market Rent (FMR) set for metro areas in fiscal year 2026, which is a key benchmark for determining the maximum allowable rent for Section 8 properties. This figure is notably higher than the $766 average market rent reported by the Census ACS, suggesting that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can achieve slightly above-average rental income. Given the $63,365 median income in the area, it's evident that a substantial portion of the population qualifies for assistance under the Section 8 program. Although data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut shares are not available, the disparity between the FMR and market rent figures implies a stable rental market where Section 8 properties can be rented out without significant delays or price adjustments.
The data points to a scenario where landlords can benefit from the Section 8 program while maintaining competitive rental rates. With the FMR being $980, landlords can set their rents at this level, knowing they will be in line with the government's guidelines for affordable housing. This aligns well with the current market rent of $766, offering a buffer for landlords against potential market fluctuations. Furthermore, the higher FMR compared to the market rent suggests that landlords can attract tenants who might otherwise struggle to find affordable housing, thus ensuring steady occupancy and cash flow.
Investors looking to enter the McConnelsville rental market through the Section 8 program should also consider the broader economic context. The median income of $63,365 indicates that many residents rely on financial assistance to afford housing, making the Section 8 program an attractive option for both tenants and landlords. While the median home value of $168,650 is relevant for homeowners, it underscores the affordability gap that the Section 8 program aims to bridge for renters.
In conclusion, the data from ZIP 43756 supports the viability of Section 8 investments for landlords and small-portfolio investors, with a strong tenant base and favorable rent-to-income ratios. Participation in the Section 8 program can provide a reliable and consistent rental income stream, positioning landlords to succeed in the McConnelsville rental market. Verdict: Section 8 is a solid investment strategy in McConnelsville, OH.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). Demographics from U.S. Census (2024).
About FMR: Fair Market Rent (FMR) is used to determine payment standards for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, initial renewal rents for some expiring project-based Section 8 contracts, and rent ceilings for HOME Investment Partnerships.