Location: Wheeling, WV | Metro: Wheeling, 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 | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,100 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,821 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,040 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,203 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,313 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,100 | $136,466 | 0.81% | C |
| 3BR | $1,420 | $189,746 | 0.75% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 thesis in ZIP 43933, centered in Jacobsburg, OH, hinges on the disparity between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. The FMR for FY 2024 in ZIP 43933 is set at $920. However, the recent search did not provide specific market rent data for ZIP 43933.
In the absence of market rent data, we can still analyze the situation based on the FMR. Given that only 1.7% of residents are renters and the median home value stands at $144,868, it suggests a low rental demand. With a median income of $59,881, the economic conditions in Jacobsburg might not support high rental prices.
If the market rent were higher than the FMR, landlords would be absorbing the difference, which could be significant. For instance, if the market rent were $1,000, the gap would be $80, representing a 8.7% discount for voucher tenants compared to the open market rate. This scenario would make the area less attractive for landlords looking to maximize yield.
Conversely, if the market rent is lower than the FMR, it indicates a potential opportunity for landlords to receive above-market rates through the Section 8 program. This would make voucher tenants a desirable option, ensuring steady, government-backed income.
To make informed decisions, landlords and small-portfolio investors should continue monitoring local rental trends and consider the broader economic context of Jacobsburg, OH.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.