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 | $740 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,050 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,647 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,993 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,093 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,050 | $224,667 | 0.47% | F |
| 3BR | $1,330 | $277,838 | 0.48% | F |
| 4BR | $1,420 | $365,255 | 0.39% | F |
| 5BR | $1,647 | $460,531 | 0.36% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors in ZIP code 44721, located in Canton, OH, within Stark County and the Canton-Massillon, OH MSA metro area, reveals a competitive landscape. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 is set at $880 per month, whereas the market rent, according to Census ACS data, averages $957 per month. This indicates that landlords accepting Section 8 vouchers will experience marginal cash flow at the HUD FMR rate. To achieve positive cash flow, they would need to offer higher-end units that command rents closer to or above the market average.
The median home value in ZIP 44721 stands at $294,182. Using this figure, we can calculate the rent-to-price ratio. With an average market rent of $957, the annual rent is approximately $11,484. Dividing this by the median home value gives us a rent-to-price ratio of about 3.9%. This suggests that the rental market is somewhat aligned with property values, providing a reasonable return on investment relative to the cost of ownership.
In terms of days on market (DOM) and price-cutting trends, the data shows a median DOM of N/A and a price-cut share of 0.2%. While these figures are limited, they suggest that the housing market is relatively stable, with few homes needing to be discounted to sell. This stability supports the idea that properties in this area maintain their value well over time.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP 44721 is likely to be stability. Given the alignment between rental rates and property values, along with the low incidence of price cuts, investors can expect consistent returns and minimal risk of depreciation. This makes it an attractive location for those seeking long-term, steady investment opportunities.
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.