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 | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $810 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,624 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,819 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,965 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,063 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,020 | $55,117 | 1.85% | A+ |
| 3BR | $1,320 | $85,388 | 1.55% | A+ |
| 4BR | $1,400 | $100,663 | 1.39% | A |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rent math in ZIP 44485 does not work favorably for landlords. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $860 for the fiscal year 2024 is higher than the market rent of $804, based on Census ACS data. This indicates that landlords might struggle to find tenants willing to pay the higher FMR rate.
Acquisition in this area is relatively affordable. The median home value stands at $72,560. While the days on market (DOM) are not available, the low percentage of homes requiring a price cut (0.2%) suggests that the housing market is stable and not overly saturated with properties, making it easier for investors to acquire homes without significant price concessions.
Tenant demand is present but limited. With a total population of 14,930, over 46% are renters, indicating a sizeable tenant pool. However, the overall population size means that the number of potential renters is also constrained, which could impact occupancy rates if there is an increase in rental supply.
In conclusion, while the acquisition costs in ZIP 44485 are affordable, the rent math does not align well with the current market conditions, potentially leading to difficulties in attracting tenants at the higher FMR rate. The presence of a substantial renter share provides some assurance of demand, yet the limited population size poses a risk of saturation. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should proceed with caution, focusing on competitive pricing and market positioning to ensure successful tenancy. The stability of the housing market offers a secure foundation for investment, but achieving favorable returns will require careful management and strategic decision-making.
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.