Location: Youngstown-Warren, OH | Metro: Youngstown-Warren, 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 | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,601 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,793 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,936 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,033 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,290 | $254,078 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 44417 reveals a unique balance between yield potential and market stability. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for 2024 stands at $870, which is notably lower than the market rent of $909. This suggests that properties in this area could be rented out slightly above the FMR, offering a modest yield opportunity.
However, the median home value of $237,529 is relatively high, indicating that the investment cost is substantial. When considering the average income in the area, which is $52,763, it becomes evident that the rental market is somewhat sensitive to economic fluctuations, given that only 16.7% of residents are renters. This low percentage of renters implies a less stable demand for rental housing compared to areas with higher percentages of renters.
The lack of data on the number of days on market (DOM) further complicates the assessment of stability. However, the combination of a moderate rental premium over the FMR and a significant portion of owner-occupiers points towards a market that is neither purely high-yield nor highly stable. Instead, it represents a middle ground where careful selection of properties and tenants can lead to satisfactory returns, but the overall stability is compromised due to the limited rental population.
To summarize, ZIP 44417 offers a yield potential that is moderately attractive, but its stability is questionable due to the low percentage of renters and the absence of DOM data. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should approach this market with caution, focusing on areas within the ZIP code that show signs of stronger tenant demand and economic resilience.
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.