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 | $1,260 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,430 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,220 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,400 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,784 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,118 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,367 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,535 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,740 | $253,305 | 0.69% | D |
| 3BR | $2,220 | $302,637 | 0.73% | D |
| 4BR | $2,400 | $404,658 | 0.59% | F |
| 5BR | $2,784 | $454,745 | 0.61% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rent math in ZIP code 44131, part of the Independence, OH, Cleveland, OH HUD Metro FMR area, is favorable but requires careful consideration. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1,600 for fiscal year 2024, which is higher than the market rent reported by the Census ACS of $1,407. This suggests that landlords can potentially charge above the average market rate, leveraging the FMR to attract tenants who qualify for housing assistance programs.
Acquisition in this ZIP code is moderately affordable. The median home value stands at $309,121, indicating a reasonable entry point for investors looking to purchase properties. However, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the low percentage of homes experiencing price cuts (0.2%) imply that the real estate market is stable and possibly competitive. Landlords should be prepared to negotiate and consider market conditions before making an investment decision.
Tenant demand in ZIP 44131 is relatively low. With a population of 20,577 and only 7.1% of residents being renters, the pool of potential tenants is limited. This could pose challenges in quickly filling vacancies and maintaining consistent occupancy rates. Landlords must ensure they have a solid strategy to attract and retain tenants in this environment.
In conclusion, ZIP 44131 offers a viable opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors due to the favorable rent math where HUD FMRs exceed market rents. Acquisition is affordable, though the market is stable and may require strategic negotiation. Tenant demand is modest, necessitating a focused approach to leasing. Overall, while there are promising aspects, investors must be cautious and proactive in managing their properties to succeed in this market.
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.