Location: Mansfield, OH | Metro: Mansfield, 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 | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,856 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,079 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,245 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,357 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,040 | $128,415 | 0.81% | C |
| 3BR | $1,380 | $184,497 | 0.75% | D |
| 4BR | $1,600 | $286,589 | 0.56% | F |
| 5BR | $1,856 | $419,487 | 0.44% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 housing analysis for ZIP code 44906, located in Mansfield, Ohio, reveals a significant financial opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, as set by HUD for fiscal year 2024, stands at $870. In contrast, the Census American Community Survey (ACS) reports the average market rent at $850. This creates a positive gap of $20, which translates to approximately 2.35% above the market rate.
This discrepancy means that voucher holders can pay slightly more than the typical market rent, making this scenario a yield play. Landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers in ZIP 44906 can expect a higher rental income compared to what they might receive from non-voucher tenants. With 42.9% of residents being renters and a median home value of $168,341, the demand for affordable housing in Mansfield is substantial. The median income in the area is $52,624, indicating that many residents rely on assistance to afford housing.
The FMR exceeding the market rent by $20 suggests that landlords could potentially increase their cash flow by accepting voucher tenants. However, it's crucial to understand the administrative aspects and requirements of participating in the Section 8 program. Despite the slight premium, the overall cost of housing voucher tenants remains stable, as the government covers most of the rent, ensuring predictability and reliability of income.
In conclusion, the gap between the FMR and the market rent in ZIP 44906 makes it an attractive investment for landlords looking to maximize their returns. The slightly higher rent from voucher tenants can contribute positively to the yield, while the stability provided by the government's involvement mitigates risks associated with tenant turnover and unpaid rents. Given the local context of high rental demand and moderate median incomes, Section 8 properties offer a solid financial strategy for real estate investors in Mansfield, Ohio.
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.