Location: Weirton-Steubenville, WV | 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 | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $770 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,752 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,962 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,119 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,225 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,290 | $95,945 | 1.34% | A |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate landscape in ZIP code 43913 is poised for a nuanced period ahead, with implications for both pricing power and investment appreciation. With a median home value currently at $81,239, the area stands out as an affordable option for many potential buyers. However, the lack of percentage data on listings that have been reduced and the unspecified median days on market (DOM) suggest a stable but less volatile market environment.
This stability implies that landlords and small-portfolio investors can expect consistent demand without significant fluctuations in property values. The data does not indicate a strong seller's market where rapid price increases might be expected. Instead, it suggests a steady state where maintaining competitive pricing will be key to attracting tenants and buyers.
On the rental side, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 43913 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $860, while the current market rent stands at $536 according to Census ACS data. This discrepancy signals a potential upward pressure on rental rates, aligning them more closely with the FMR. Landlords who adjust their rents gradually towards the FMR can capture this premium without alienating existing tenants.
For long-term investors, the setup points towards a realistic appreciation scenario rather than speculative gains. Given the stable median home value and the gradual alignment of market rents with the FMR, investors can anticipate modest annual appreciation. This is particularly true if broader economic factors such as employment growth and migration patterns into the area remain positive, supporting housing demand.
Investors should focus on the fundamentals: maintaining properties to ensure they meet the needs of the local market, adjusting rents to reflect the FMR without overpricing, and being prepared for a slow and steady market rather than sharp price movements. The combination of affordable home values and the potential for rental rate adjustments offers a solid foundation for investment returns over the next 12-24 months.
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.