Location: Muskingum County, OH | Metro: Muskingum County, OH
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $890 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,798 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,014 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,175 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,284 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 43791 presents a unique challenge for both renters and landlords alike. With the median income being listed as N/A, it becomes crucial to analyze the housing costs and rental assistance available to understand the financial landscape.
The market rate for rentals in ZIP 43791 is also listed as N/A, which makes direct comparison to the Family Monthly Income (FMR) payment standard of $1,010 for metro FY 2026 difficult without additional data. However, if we assume that the FMR reflects a reasonable estimate of the average household's ability to pay rent, then landlords must consider setting their rental rates at or below this figure to attract tenants who rely on voucher payments.
Given that 47.4% of the population are renters and the total population is 33, the demand for affordable housing is evident. This high percentage of renters suggests a significant portion of the community may be dependent on rental assistance such as vouchers to cover their living expenses. The affordability gap, therefore, means that landlords could face stiff competition from properties that accept government vouchers, as these vouchers guarantee a consistent and reliable source of income.
For landlords considering whether to adopt a voucher-friendly strategy or focus on cash-paying tenants, the analysis points to the necessity of understanding the local rental market dynamics. Accepting vouchers ensures a steady stream of income, albeit at a fixed rate set by the government. On the other hand, relying on cash-paying tenants might allow for higher rents but comes with the risk of vacancy due to the limited number of households capable of paying above the FMR.
The takeaway for landlords is that in ZIP 43791, aligning with the voucher program at $1,010 FMR could be a strategic move to ensure occupancy and avoid the risks associated with higher market rates. Given the reliance on rental assistance and the competitive nature of the market, embracing the voucher system might provide a more stable investment opportunity compared to targeting cash-paying tenants in an area where income data is unavailable.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.