Location: Youngstown-Warren, 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 | $950 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,620 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,879 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,104 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,272 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,386 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,230 | $182,183 | 0.68% | D |
| 3BR | $1,470 | $193,036 | 0.76% | D |
| 4BR | $1,620 | $231,112 | 0.7% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 44288, located in Windham, OH, stands out within Portage County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a total population of 3,850, it has a rental rate of 22.2%, which is lower than the national average of around 35%. The median household income in Windham is $69,205, indicating a middle-class community. Notably, the median home value is $187,123, suggesting that homeownership is relatively affordable compared to other areas in the county.
The economics of Section 8 vouchers in Windham are favorable for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a one-bedroom apartment in ZIP 44288 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $990, whereas the market rent based on Census American Community Survey (ACS) data is $1,058. This means that landlords accepting vouchers can expect to receive nearly 94% of the market rent, making it a viable option for those looking to maintain their cash flow without significant losses.
Given the data, ZIP 44288 appears to be a stable area. The relatively low rental rate and moderate median income suggest a community where most residents own homes rather than rent. Additionally, the close alignment between the FMR and market rent indicates a housing market that is neither experiencing rapid inflation nor deflation, which bodes well for long-term investment stability.
Investors should consider these factors when deciding whether to participate in the Section 8 program in Windham. The affordability of housing combined with the proximity of voucher rents to market rates makes this ZIP code an attractive location for those interested in the 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.