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 | $850 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,130 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,798 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,014 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,175 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,284 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,130 | $47,759 | 2.37% | A+ |
| 3BR | $1,460 | $60,521 | 2.41% | A+ |
| 4BR | $1,550 | $67,348 | 2.3% | A+ |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 44502 in Youngstown, OH, is characterized by a significant rental population. With 51.2% of residents being renters, this area leans heavily towards a tenant-based economy, making it a prime location for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The total population of 9,594 suggests a sizeable pool of potential tenants, particularly those reliant on Section 8 housing vouchers.
The median household income in ZIP 44502 stands at $31,170, which is notably lower than the national average. This economic backdrop is crucial when assessing the affordability of housing in the area. The market rent for the region is reported at $993 per month, representing approximately 35.1% of the median household income. This high percentage indicates that a substantial portion of residents' income goes towards housing costs, underscoring the importance of affordable housing options such as those provided through Section 8.
Comparing the market rent to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for FY 2024, which is $940 for this ZIP code, reveals a slight premium charged by landlords. However, the close alignment between the market rent and the FMR suggests that the voucher amounts are likely sufficient to cover a majority of the rent for most units in the area, ensuring that the demand for Section 8 tenants remains robust.
In this ZIP code, landlords can expect a tenant profile that includes a significant number of low-income individuals and families who rely on housing vouchers to meet their living expenses. These tenants will be looking for affordable housing options that fit within the parameters of their vouchers. Given the economic conditions and high rental rates relative to income, there is a strong likelihood that many residents will require assistance through Section 8 to afford housing. Therefore, landlords should prepare to cater to a tenant base that values stability and affordability, aligning their rental offerings closely with the FMR to attract and retain these tenants effectively.
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.