Location: Canton-Massillon, OH | Metro: Canton-Massillon, 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 | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,636 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,979 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,078 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,040 | $237,253 | 0.44% | F |
| 3BR | $1,320 | $317,900 | 0.42% | F |
| 4BR | $1,410 | $460,636 | 0.31% | F |
| 5BR | $1,636 | $651,803 | 0.25% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP 44718, located in Canton, OH, stands at $88,113. At first glance, this figure might suggest financial stability for residents. However, the reality of housing costs paints a different picture. The market rate for rent is $926, which is just above the median income level when considering the typical allocation of 30% towards housing expenses. This means a household earning the median income would spend approximately $2658 per month on rent, leaving little room for other necessities.
In comparison, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 44718 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $920. While this is slightly lower than the market rate, it still represents a significant portion of the median income. Given that 28.9% of the 12,508 population are renters, there is a notable segment of the community facing an affordability gap. This gap could lead to increased competition among landlords, as tenants seek out properties that offer the best value for their budget.
The affordability gap means that landlords must be strategic in their rental pricing and property offerings. Voucher holders, who receive government assistance, will likely find it easier to secure housing at or below the FMR of $920. This could result in a higher demand for properties that accept vouchers, potentially making them more attractive options for landlords. On the other hand, cash-paying tenants might struggle to meet the $926 market rate, leading to a tighter market where landlords need to balance pricing with the risk of vacancies.
Takeaway for Landlords:
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.