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 | $840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $880 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,120 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,274 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,456 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,579 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,120 | $188,598 | 0.59% | F |
| 3BR | $1,460 | $280,829 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $1,750 | $368,229 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 thesis in ZIP code 45107, which encompasses Blanchester, OH, is centered around the disparity between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2024, the FMR is set at $990, while the Census American Community Survey (ACS) indicates that the market rent stands at $937. This creates a gap of $53, representing approximately a 5.7% difference between the two figures.
Given that the FMR exceeds the market rent, landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the advantages of accepting Section 8 voucher tenants. The higher payment from the government ensures a more stable and predictable cash flow, making it an attractive strategy for increasing rental yields. The voucher system guarantees that the government will cover the difference between the tenant's contribution and the FMR, providing a safeguard against the financial risks associated with lower-income renters.
In Blanchester, OH, where 25.2% of residents are renters, and the median income is $71,510, the opportunity to secure a steady stream of income through Section 8 vouchers can be particularly beneficial. With a median home value of $266,083, many potential tenants might struggle to afford market rents without assistance. By participating in the Section 8 program, landlords can tap into a reliable source of revenue that aligns with the local economic conditions and supports affordable housing.
However, accepting voucher tenants also comes with considerations. Landlords must adhere to HUD standards for property maintenance and may face inspections. Additionally, there can be administrative burdens and delays in receiving payments. Despite these challenges, the gap between the FMR and market rent suggests that landlords can still achieve a competitive yield while offering affordable housing options to the community.
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.