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 | $870 |
| 1 Bedroom | $880 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,140 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,710 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,984 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,222 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,400 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,520 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,140 | $125,598 | 0.91% | C |
| 3BR | $1,470 | $195,398 | 0.75% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 43944, located in Richmond, OH, has a population of 2,593 residents, with 28.4% being renters. This indicates that while there is a significant portion of renters, the area is not heavily dominated by rental properties. The median household income stands at $69,228, which provides a basis for understanding the economic context of potential tenants.
A typical market rent of $925 per month represents approximately 13.4% of the median household income. This figure suggests that the average renter can afford the current market rates without excessive strain on their finances. However, it also implies that the demand for deeply discounted voucher rents might be less pronounced compared to areas with lower incomes. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1010 per month for FY 2024, indicating that the current market rent is slightly below the FMR, which could attract both voucher holders and those paying market rate.
In comparing the market rent to the FMR, we see that the difference is $85, or about 8.4%, suggesting that landlords may find a mix of tenants who can pay market rates and those relying on vouchers. Given the FMR is higher than the market rent, landlords should anticipate a tenant pool that includes individuals and families utilizing housing vouchers, alongside those who can pay closer to the FMR.
The type of tenant a landlord in ZIP 43944 should expect is a blend of those who can afford the market rent and those who depend on vouchers. While the voucher demand is present, it is not overwhelming due to the relatively high median income. Tenants will likely be working-class individuals and families seeking affordable housing options. Landlords must ensure their units meet the quality standards required for voucher eligibility and be prepared to navigate the HUD regulations associated with accepting Section 8 tenants.
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.