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 | $890 |
| 1 Bedroom | $960 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,630 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,891 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,118 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,287 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,401 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,240 | $206,353 | 0.6% | D |
| 3BR | $1,480 | $281,981 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $1,630 | $364,532 | 0.45% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
In Rootstown, OH (ZIP 44272), the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for Section 8 eligibility in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1090. This figure represents the maximum rental amount that a landlord can charge for a property to be considered under the program. In comparison, the market rent as reported by the Census ACS stands at $1,079, indicating that properties eligible for Section 8 are slightly above average market rates. The median home value in the area is $281,084, which provides a solid foundation for property investment. With a 24.3% renter share, there is a notable portion of the population looking for rental housing, making it a viable market for landlords.
The median income of $83,173 suggests that residents have the financial stability to support rental payments, particularly those on the lower end of the spectrum who might qualify for Section 8 assistance. Despite the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut shares, the overall economic indicators point towards a stable and predictable rental environment. Landlords can expect a steady stream of potential tenants who meet the income requirements for the Section 8 program.
Verdict: Given the $1090 FMR and the strong median income of $83,173, Rootstown, OH presents a favorable opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in Section 8 participation, offering a balance between market rents and tenant affordability.
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.