Location: Wayne County, 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 | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,717 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,923 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,077 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,181 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,090 | $223,664 | 0.49% | F |
| 3BR | $1,380 | $268,792 | 0.51% | F |
| 4BR | $1,480 | $355,043 | 0.42% | F |
| 5BR | $1,717 | $475,987 | 0.36% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 44614, located in Canal Fulton, OH, is part of Stark County and has a unique profile that sets it apart from other areas. With a population of 13,190 residents, 19.7% of whom rent their homes, the area maintains a predominantly owner-occupied housing stock. The median household income in Canal Fulton stands at $83,671, indicating a middle-class community. The median home value is notably higher at $269,190, reflecting the stability and desirability of homeownership in the region.
For landlords and small-portfolio investors, understanding the dynamics of Section 8 vouchers is crucial. In ZIP 44614, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,000, while the market rent based on Census American Community Survey data is $912. This difference means that landlords accepting Section 8 vouchers can expect to receive slightly above market rates, providing an incentive for participation in the program. However, the relatively low rental rate also suggests that the demand for rental properties might be less compared to areas with higher rents.
Evaluating the overall data signature of ZIP 44614, it reads as stable rather than transitional. The high median home value alongside a modest rental percentage indicates a strong preference for homeownership among residents. The median income is solid but not exceptionally high, which supports the idea of a steady, middle-class community. The slight premium offered by Section 8 vouchers over market rates can help stabilize the rental market, ensuring that landlords have a consistent source of income from tenants who might otherwise struggle to find affordable housing.
In summary, Canal Fulton's ZIP 44614 presents a stable environment for both homeowners and landlords. The modest rental market, combined with the slightly above-market rates offered by Section 8 vouchers, provides a balanced opportunity for those interested in the rental sector. For small-portfolio investors, this ZIP code offers a reliable investment climate, backed by a robust median home value and a steady income level among its residents.
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.