Location: Weirton-Steubenville, WV | Metro: Canton-Massillon, 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 | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,659 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,858 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,007 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,107 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,000 | $96,134 | 1.04% | B |
| 3BR | $1,290 | $176,051 | 0.73% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 43903, which includes Amsterdam, Ohio, is set at $930 for fiscal year 2024. This figure represents the payment standard for Section 8 housing vouchers, meaning that if you participate in the program, you will receive up to $930 per month for a two-bedroom unit, which is the typical size used to determine FMRs. It's important to note that this is not the amount tenants will pay; it's the maximum amount that the voucher can cover.
To put this into perspective, the average rent in Amsterdam, Ohio, according to the latest Census American Community Survey (ACS), is $661. This indicates that the Section 8 payment standard is higher than the local average, which could be beneficial for landlords who wish to ensure they receive a competitive rate for their property.
The 16.8% of households that rent in the area suggests there is a moderate level of demand for rental properties. While not overwhelming, this percentage indicates that there are enough potential tenants to fill your units. The median household income in Amsterdam, Ohio, is around $128,044, which is significantly higher than the average rent. This can affect the acquisition cost of rental properties since homes in this zip code are generally more expensive, reflecting the overall economic conditions of the area.
Before deciding to participate in the Section 8 program, it's crucial to verify that your property meets the minimum standards set by HUD. These standards include ensuring the unit is safe, decent, and sanitary. Failure to meet these criteria can result in penalties or disqualification from the program. Once you confirm your property complies with these requirements, you can proceed with confidence, knowing that the Section 8 program offers a reliable source of income with a payment standard of $930, which exceeds the local average rent of $661. This makes it an attractive option for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to enter the rental market in Amsterdam, Ohio.
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.