Location: Cincinnati, 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 | $930 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,000 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,680 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,900 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,204 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,468 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,665 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,798 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,280 | $221,163 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $1,680 | $299,174 | 0.56% | F |
| 4BR | $1,900 | $367,676 | 0.52% | F |
| 5BR | $2,204 | $408,488 | 0.54% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 45102, located in Amelia, OH, falls within the larger Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN HUD Metro FMR Area. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 45102 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,120. This figure represents the maximum rental assistance payment that can be made on behalf of eligible tenants under the Section 8 program.
Comparatively, the market rent for ZIP 45102 is higher at $1,709. This suggests that the actual rents charged in the area exceed the FMR, which could indicate a premium sub-market where landlords might have some flexibility in setting rents above the subsidized rate. However, it also means that landlords relying solely on Section 8 vouchers will receive less than the average market rent, potentially affecting their profit margins.
The median home value in ZIP 45102 stands at $307,665. This is likely below the median home value for the broader Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN metro area, suggesting that 45102 could be considered a more affordable or value pocket within the larger market. Lower home values can be indicative of an area where property ownership is more accessible to lower-income residents, which can be a factor in attracting Section 8 participants.
The renter share in ZIP 45102 is 27.9%. This percentage is notable as it suggests a significant portion of the population relies on renting rather than owning their homes. A higher renter share combined with below-average home values can signal a sweet spot for landlords who are willing to accept Section 8 vouchers. It indicates a strong demand for rental properties among those who qualify for housing assistance programs.
In summary, ZIP 45102 appears to be a value pocket within the Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN HUD Metro FMR Area. Its lower home values and significant renter share make it attractive for landlords who participate in the Section 8 program. Despite the FMR being lower than the market rent, the area's affordability and demand for rental properties present opportunities for investors looking to serve a tenant base that includes a substantial number of voucher holders.
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.