Location: Harrison County, OH | Metro: Weirton-Steubenville, WV-OH MSA
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 | $890 |
| 1 Bedroom | $920 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,730 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,007 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,248 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,428 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,549 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,180 | $77,398 | 1.52% | A+ |
| 3BR | $1,530 | $153,001 | 1% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 43901 in Ohio reveals a unique balance between yield and stability that could be appealing to both landlords and small-portfolio investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area stands at $920 for fiscal year 2024, which is notably lower than the average market rent of $1,000. This discrepancy suggests a potential for higher rental yields when compared to the typical market conditions.
To quantify the yield potential, consider the following: the median home value in ZIP 43901 is $107,538. If an investor were to purchase a property at this price point and rent it out for the FMR of $920, the annual rental income would amount to $11,040. This translates to a rental yield of approximately 10.27%, calculated as ($11,040 / $107,538) * 100. This figure is competitive and indicates a strong yield opportunity.
However, the stability of the market in ZIP 43901 is somewhat mixed. The percentage of renters is 24.5%, which is relatively low, suggesting a smaller pool of potential tenants. Additionally, the median household income in the area is $63,603, which is below the national average. This lower income level might impact the ability of residents to afford higher rents, thus affecting the stability of rental cash flow.
Despite these factors, the absence of data regarding the number of days on market (DOM) makes it challenging to fully assess the turnover rate and associated risks. A high DOM could indicate difficulties in finding tenants quickly, thereby reducing stability. Conversely, a low DOM would suggest a robust demand for rentals, enhancing stability.
In summary, ZIP 43901 presents itself as a high-yield market due to the significant gap between the FMR and the median home value, leading to a rental yield of about 10.27%. However, the stability is compromised by the lower percentage of renters and median income levels. Therefore, this area is best classified as a high-yield/low-stability market, suitable for investors willing to accept higher risk for the potential of greater returns.
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.