Location: Akron, OH | Metro: Akron, 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 | $920 |
| 1 Bedroom | $990 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,680 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,183 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,358 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,476 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $990 | $103,824 | 0.95% | C |
| 2BR | $1,280 | $206,505 | 0.62% | D |
| 3BR | $1,530 | $250,237 | 0.61% | D |
| 4BR | $1,680 | $395,819 | 0.42% | F |
| 5BR | $1,949 | $544,261 | 0.36% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate market in ZIP 44223, Cuyahoga Falls, OH, presents a unique opportunity for both short-term and long-term investments. With a median home value of $252,551, the area remains affordable compared to many other regions in Ohio. The fact that only 0.2% of listings have reduced their asking price indicates strong seller pricing power, suggesting that homes are selling close to their listed values or even slightly above. This stability, combined with a median Days on Market (DOM) of just 10 days, signals an efficient market where homes are moving quickly, typically before significant price adjustments can be made.
On the rental side, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 44223 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,010. However, the actual market rent, as measured by Zillow's Observed Rent Index (ZORI), stands at $1,642. This gap between government-subsidized rents and market rates is indicative of a robust demand for rentals, particularly from those who qualify for Section 8 housing assistance. Landlords can leverage this demand to maintain higher rents for non-subsidized units, ensuring steady cash flow.
For long-hold investors, the setup suggests a cautious approach to appreciation expectations. While the current market efficiency and low DOM point towards a stable environment, the limited percentage of price reductions (0.2%) does not necessarily imply substantial future appreciation. Instead, it signals a market where property values are likely to remain steady, offering a reliable base for investment without the promise of rapid growth.
The combination of a stable home value, efficient sales process, and a healthy rental market creates a solid foundation for investors looking to secure consistent returns. However, the appreciation potential is modest, aligning well with strategies focused on rental income rather than speculative growth.
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.