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 | $1,010 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,090 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,690 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,850 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,146 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,404 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,596 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,726 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,410 | $293,197 | 0.48% | F |
| 3BR | $1,690 | $383,608 | 0.44% | F |
| 4BR | $1,850 | $709,095 | 0.26% | F |
| 5BR | $2,146 | $955,801 | 0.22% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 44286, located in Richfield, OH, within the Akron, OH MSA metro area, serves as a solid foundation for a Section 8 portfolio strategy, acting primarily as a cash-flow anchor. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 44286 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1220, which is slightly below the market rent of $1250. This means that landlords can expect a modest spread of $30 per unit, ensuring a reliable, if not high, cash flow from Section 8 tenants.
The median home value in ZIP 44286 is $491,034, indicating a stable housing market. This stability is crucial for maintaining consistent rental income, as it reduces the risk of significant property devaluation over time. Landlords can rely on this steady stream of income without worrying about drastic fluctuations in property values or rental rates.
ZIP 44286 does not present itself as an appreciation play due to the lack of significant growth potential in home prices or a reduction in days on market (DOM). However, the 10.0% renter share suggests that while a majority of residents own their homes, there is still a notable segment of the population renting. This makes the ZIP code a suitable diversifier for investors looking to balance their portfolio between homeownership and rental properties.
Moreover, the median income of $112,778 in ZIP 44286 is relatively high, which can be advantageous for landlords. High-income areas tend to have lower vacancy rates and less tenant turnover, leading to more predictable cash flows. This characteristic further reinforces the role of ZIP 44286 as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy.
In summary, ZIP 44286 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor due to its stable housing market, slight positive spread between FMR and market rent, and higher median income levels. These factors contribute to a secure and predictable income source for landlords and small-portfolio investors participating in the Section 8 program.
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.