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 | $900 |
| 1 Bedroom | $970 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,500 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,640 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,902 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,300 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,415 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,250 | $219,720 | 0.57% | F |
| 3BR | $1,500 | $309,489 | 0.48% | F |
| 4BR | $1,640 | $367,666 | 0.45% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 44255, located in Mantua, OH, has a population of 7,318 residents. With only 11.5% of the population being renters, it is evident that this area is predominantly homeowner-dominated rather than renter-heavy. This characteristic suggests that the demand for Section 8 housing vouchers in the area is likely to be lower compared to regions with a higher percentage of renters.
The median household income in ZIP 44255 is $78,099, which places the area in a relatively affluent category. The average market rent for the area is $979 per month. To put this into perspective, the typical rent consumes approximately 12.5% of the local median income, calculated by dividing the market rent ($979) by the annual median income ($78,099) and multiplying by 12 months. This indicates that renting is financially manageable for most households in the area.
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 44255, set at $960 for fiscal year 2024, closely aligns with the actual market rent of $979. This parity suggests that landlords can expect a competitive rental environment, with rents being reflective of the area's economic conditions.
A landlord in ZIP 44255 should anticipate a tenant profile that is largely dependent on Section 8 vouchers due to the lower percentage of renters. These tenants will have an income level that is significantly below the median household income of the area, necessitating government assistance to afford housing. It is important for landlords to familiarize themselves with the requirements and procedures associated with Section 8 tenancy to effectively manage their properties.
Given the homeowner-dominated nature of the area, landlords must also be prepared for potential challenges in attracting and retaining tenants who rely on vouchers. They should ensure their properties meet the necessary standards and consider the administrative aspects of managing subsidized housing.
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.