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 | $880 |
| 1 Bedroom | $930 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,170 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,856 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,079 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,245 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,357 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,170 | $209,856 | 0.56% | F |
| 3BR | $1,510 | $230,669 | 0.65% | D |
| 4BR | $1,600 | $390,150 | 0.41% | F |
| 5BR | $1,856 | $543,204 | 0.34% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of the Section 8 program in ZIP code 44514, which encompasses Poland, OH, reveals a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. The FMR for ZIP 44514 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1010, while the market rent, measured by the Zillow Rent Index (ZORI), stands at $1350. This creates a gap of $340, or approximately 33.66%, between what landlords can charge voucher tenants and the open-market rental rate.
Given that the FMR is lower than the market rent, landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers must be prepared to rent their properties below the prevailing market rates. This decision can impact profitability and requires careful consideration of the local economic context. In Poland, OH, where only 15.2% of residents are renters, the competition for rental units is relatively low. However, the median home value of $243,468 and the median income of $79,808 indicate that the area has a higher cost of living and a moderate income level, which might influence the willingness of residents to seek subsidized housing options.
Accepting Section 8 vouchers means landlords will receive a subsidy to cover the difference between the tenant's contribution and the FMR. For example, if a voucher tenant pays 30% of their income towards rent, their contribution would be $23940 annually, or roughly $1995 per month. The government would then pay the remaining $810.50 to meet the $1010 FMR, resulting in a total monthly payment of $1010. This is significantly less than the market rent of $1350. Therefore, landlords must evaluate whether the long-term stability and reduced vacancy risk associated with Section 8 tenants outweigh the short-term financial loss from renting below market rates.
In conclusion, the Section 8 program in ZIP 44514 offers a clear opportunity for landlords but also comes with a substantial cost, given the gap between FMR and market rents. Landlords should carefully weigh these factors before deciding to participate in the program, considering the local rental market dynamics and the broader economic context of Poland, OH.
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.