Location: Hancock County, OH | Metro: Hancock County, OH
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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,775 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,988 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,147 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,254 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,340 | $225,425 | 0.59% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 44804, located in Hancock County, OH metro, serves as an ideal cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This designation is based on the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, which is set at $1,060 for fiscal year 2026, and the actual market rent, currently at $885. The difference of $175 per month represents a substantial margin that can be leveraged to ensure positive cash flow for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The median home value in ZIP 44804 stands at $203,524. This figure, combined with the FMR, indicates that properties within this ZIP code are priced reasonably compared to the rental income they can generate under the Section 8 program. Landlords who invest in this area can expect steady and reliable returns due to the guaranteed income from the government, which covers the difference between the tenant's contribution and the FMR.
The renter share in ZIP 44804 is 5.9%, suggesting a relatively low proportion of the population relies solely on renting. However, this does not detract from its role as a cash-flow anchor. Instead, it highlights the importance of focusing on the financials rather than the broader rental market dynamics. With a median income of $95,469, tenants in this ZIP code are likely to be financially stable, reducing the risk of default and ensuring consistent payment of their portion of the rent.
In conclusion, ZIP 44804 excels as a cash-flow anchor for Section 8 portfolios. Its favorable FMR-market rent spread ensures a positive cash flow, while the median home value and median income figures support the financial stability of the investment. This makes it a secure and profitable addition to any Section 8-focused real estate strategy.
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.