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 | $1,060 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,140 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,760 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,930 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,239 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,508 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,709 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,844 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,140 | $82,819 | 1.38% | A |
| 2BR | $1,470 | $189,945 | 0.77% | D |
| 3BR | $1,760 | $281,169 | 0.63% | D |
| 4BR | $1,930 | $382,496 | 0.5% | F |
| 5BR | $2,239 | $450,821 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
1190 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 44224 in Stow, Ohio, for fiscal year 2024, indicating the maximum amount Section 8 participants can pay in rent. However, the actual market rent, known as ZORI, stands at 1671, suggesting that landlords who accept Section 8 tenants may need to adjust their expectations for rental income. The median home value in this area is 293486, reflecting a robust housing market where property values have remained steady. With a renter share of 30.9%, it's evident that nearly one-third of residents prefer renting over owning, making rental properties a significant part of the local economy. The median income in Stow, Ohio, is 94287, which is above the national average, supporting the notion that the area attracts financially stable renters. On the supply side, the 7-day Days on Market (DOM) indicates a quick turnover for rentals, showing strong demand. Furthermore, only 0.2% of listings report a price cut, signaling that landlords are generally successful in renting out their properties at the desired rates.
Given these figures, landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the balance between the guaranteed income from Section 8 tenants and the potential for higher rents from private market tenants. While the FMR cap at 1190 might be lower than the market rate, the stability provided by government-backed rental assistance can be appealing. The high demand and low price-cut share suggest that properties in Stow, Ohio, are well-positioned to attract tenants regardless of the type of assistance they receive.
Section 8 verdict: Acceptable for landlords seeking stable tenancy, though market-rate opportunities offer higher returns.
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.