Location: Cleveland, OH | Metro: Cleveland, OH HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $950 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,080 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,352 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,540 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,667 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,310 | $186,625 | 0.7% | D |
| 3BR | $1,670 | $223,000 | 0.75% | D |
| 4BR | $1,810 | $299,269 | 0.6% | D |
| 5BR | $2,100 | $316,513 | 0.66% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 44054, located in the Sheffield, OH, Cleveland, OH HUD Metro FMR Area, serves as a strategic cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio. This designation is based on the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1190 for fiscal year 2024 and the actual market rent of $1,094. The difference of $96 per month represents a clear opportunity for landlords to benefit from higher rental income through the Section 8 program.
To further solidify its role as a cash-flow anchor, consider the median home value of $223,090. This figure indicates that property values are relatively stable, making it a safe bet for long-term investment. Landlords can expect consistent cash flow without the risk of significant property value depreciation.
The 0.2% price-cut share and N/A-day Days on Market (DOM) suggest that the area does not require frequent price adjustments or extended periods to find tenants, which is crucial for maintaining steady cash flow. Additionally, the 27.6% renter share shows that there is a substantial demand for rental properties, ensuring that vacancies will be minimal. The median income of $75,572 supports the stability of the rental market, as it suggests a steady stream of potential tenants who can afford the rents.
In summary, ZIP 44054 is best categorized as a cash-flow anchor due to the favorable spread between FMR and market rent, coupled with stable property values and a strong tenant base. This makes it an ideal choice for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to secure reliable and higher-than-market rental income through the Section 8 program.
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.