Location: Harrison County, OH | 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 | $1,110 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,833 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,053 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,217 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,328 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,110 | $139,282 | 0.8% | D |
| 3BR | $1,430 | $228,804 | 0.62% | D |
| 4BR | $1,580 | $328,498 | 0.48% | F |
| 5BR | $1,833 | $392,256 | 0.47% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP Code 43950, located in Saint Clairsville, OH, can serve as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 is set at $980, while the market rent is estimated at $934. This creates a positive spread of $46, ensuring that landlords receive slightly more than the market rate when participating in the Section 8 program. Additionally, the median home value in the area is $203,131, which is relatively low compared to other regions, making it an attractive option for those looking to maintain steady cash flow.
The area has a 24.5% renter share, indicating a significant portion of the population relies on rental properties. This aligns well with the Section 8 program, which targets low-income renters. With a median income of $76,175, residents have sufficient financial stability to support their rental obligations. However, the price-cut share stands at 0.2%, and the days on market (DOM) is not applicable, suggesting that appreciation is not a primary driver in this market. Instead, the focus should be on leveraging the consistent cash flow generated by the positive FMR spread.
To further solidify its role as a cash-flow anchor, ZIP 43950 benefits from a stable business environment, with 539 total businesses operating within the region. This economic foundation supports the local job market, with an employment rate of 46.05%. Such conditions contribute to a reliable tenant base, reducing the risk of vacancy and ensuring steady rental income.
In summary, ZIP Code 43950 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy due to the positive spread between the FMR and market rent, combined with a stable economic environment and a significant renter share. These factors collectively ensure a predictable and steady stream of income for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
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.