Location: Clinton County, OH | Metro: Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $1,270 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,360 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,580 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,993 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,352 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,620 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,801 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,740 | $274,837 | 0.63% | D |
| 3BR | $2,280 | $385,633 | 0.59% | F |
| 4BR | $2,580 | $620,261 | 0.42% | F |
| 5BR | $2,993 | $854,179 | 0.35% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Waynesville, OH, located in Warren County, stands out with its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 11,597 residents, the ZIP code 45068 has a relatively low rental rate at 16.6%, indicating that the majority of its inhabitants are homeowners. The median income in Waynesville is $96,147, reflecting a higher standard of living compared to the national average. This prosperity is further underscored by the median home value of $444,071, which is significantly above the national median.
The voucher economics in Waynesville provide an interesting contrast to the overall affluence of the area. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 45068 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,260, while the market rent based on Census American Community Survey (ACS) data is $1,323. This means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect slightly lower rents from voucher holders than what the local market dictates. However, the difference is minimal, suggesting that the program remains economically viable for landlords in Waynesville.
Evaluating the data signature of ZIP 45068, it reads as stable. The high median income and home values indicate a strong local economy with little sign of volatility. The low rental rate also suggests that the housing market is largely owner-occupied, which often correlates with stability. While the voucher economics present a slight challenge due to the lower FMR compared to market rates, the gap is narrow enough that it does not significantly disrupt the overall stability of the housing market in Waynesville.
For landlords and small-portfolio investors, Waynesville offers a reliable environment with solid economic underpinnings. The modest impact of Section 8 vouchers on rental income should be considered but does not outweigh the benefits of investing in a stable community with a strong financial foundation.
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.