Location: Crawford County, OH | Metro: Crawford County, OH
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $850 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,578 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,767 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,908 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,003 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 44825 stands at $39,643, making it challenging for the average household to afford the market rate rent of $913 per month based on Census ACS data. Despite this, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by HUD for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is slightly higher at $990, which suggests that the local rental market might be somewhat inflated compared to the actual earning capacity of residents.
To put this into perspective, a household earning the median income would need to dedicate approximately 28.1% of their gross income towards paying the market rate rent. This percentage exceeds the generally recommended threshold of 30%, indicating a significant financial strain on renters. When considering the FMR of $990, the percentage increases to 25% of the median income, still a considerable portion but slightly more manageable.
With 32.4% of the population being renters and a total population of 126, the number of potential tenants is limited. This means that landlords face stiff competition for securing tenants who can afford the market rates. The affordability gap implies that many renters will likely seek assistance through housing vouchers to meet their rental needs.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: accepting Section 8 vouchers can be a strategic advantage in a competitive market where many households struggle to pay market rates. While vouchers might offer a slightly lower rent than the market rate—$990 versus $913—the guaranteed monthly payments and government backing provide stability and reduce the risk of vacancies. Landlords should weigh the benefits of steady, government-backed income against the perceived drawbacks of voucher programs.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.