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 | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $770 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,490 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,728 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,935 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,090 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,195 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,000 | $74,644 | 1.34% | A |
| 3BR | $1,290 | $115,080 | 1.12% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP 43908, located in Bergholz, OH, and part of the Weirton-Steubenville, WV-OH MSA metro area, reveals several key points regarding its viability for rental investments.
The first question addresses whether the rent math works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 43908 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $860. However, the Census American Community Survey (ACS) reports a market rent of $783. This indicates that the rent math does not align perfectly; landlords may need to adjust their rents downward to remain competitive with the market.
Regarding acquisition affordability, the median home value in ZIP 43908 is $93,590. With no data available on days on market (DOM) or the percentage of homes requiring price cuts, it's challenging to gauge the ease of acquiring properties. Nonetheless, the relatively low median home value suggests that purchasing homes could be financially feasible for many investors.
The third question concerns tenant demand. ZIP 43908 has a total population of 1,073, with 12.8% of residents being renters. This implies a limited pool of potential tenants, which could affect occupancy rates and rental income stability.
Verdict: While the median home value in ZIP 43908 is attractive for acquisition, the discrepancy between the FMR and market rent suggests that landlords will have to set their rents below the FMR to compete effectively. Furthermore, the small population and modest renter share indicate a constrained market for tenants, potentially leading to challenges in maintaining high occupancy rates. Landlords should carefully consider these factors before investing in this ZIP code.
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.