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 | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $950 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,170 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,937 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,169 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,343 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,460 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,170 | $87,846 | 1.33% | A |
| 3BR | $1,510 | $134,642 | 1.12% | B |
| 4BR | $1,670 | $128,180 | 1.3% | A |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 43977 in Ohio presents an interesting scenario for both renters and landlords. The median household income in this area stands at $57,216, which translates to roughly $4,768 per month. Given the market rate for rent is $896, this suggests that the average household could theoretically allocate about 19% of their monthly income towards housing. However, when comparing this to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) standard set at $1,070 for fiscal year 2024, the discrepancy becomes apparent.
The affordability gap is significant, with renters potentially facing a shortfall of $174 between the market rate and the FMR standard. This gap highlights the financial pressure many households might be under to find affordable housing, especially when considering other living expenses and the fact that only 26.1% of the 2,757 residents are renters. Landlords in ZIP 43977 must navigate this tight market carefully, balancing the demand for lower rents against the potential of receiving higher payments through Section 8 vouchers.
To put it into perspective, the total number of renters in ZIP 43977 is approximately 721 individuals. This relatively small pool of renters means intense competition among landlords to secure tenants who can pay the market rate or accept Section 8 vouchers. Landlords must consider the trade-offs: accepting a voucher ensures a steady, government-backed income but may also come with additional administrative burdens and stricter property standards.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: in ZIP 43977, where the median income is $57,216 and the market rate for rent is $896, there is a need to adapt to the local economic conditions. Offering competitive rental rates or being willing to accept Section 8 vouchers can help attract and retain tenants. However, landlords should also be prepared to meet the requirements for voucher acceptance if they choose this route, including maintaining properties to higher standards and dealing with the associated paperwork.
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.