Location: Highland County, OH | Metro: Clinton County, OH
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 | $800 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,010 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,130 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,710 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,984 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,222 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,400 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,520 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,130 | $189,881 | 0.6% | F |
| 3BR | $1,360 | $275,327 | 0.49% | F |
| 4BR | $1,710 | $330,628 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
To fit ZIP 45135, located in Leesburg, OH, within a Section 8 portfolio strategy, one must consider several factors including the financial market rate (FMR), median home values, renter share, and median income. In this case, ZIP 45135 serves best as a cash-flow anchor.
The financial market rate for the Highland County, OH metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,060. This rate is higher than the current market rental rate of $942, indicating a positive spread that benefits landlords participating in the Section 8 program. Landlords can secure steady, government-backed rental income that exceeds the local market rates, providing a reliable source of cash flow.
Moreover, the median home value in ZIP 45135 stands at $260,296. While this figure is relatively stable and does not suggest significant short-term capital appreciation, it offers a solid foundation for long-term investment. The consistent income from the Section 8 program ensures that the property remains profitable even without substantial increases in property value.
The renter share in ZIP 45135 is 24.7%, which is a moderate percentage. It indicates a sufficient demand for rental properties, supporting the viability of a cash-flow strategy. Additionally, the median income of $79,629 provides insight into the economic stability of the area. This income level suggests that tenants are likely to be reliable, given the relative affordability of the housing market compared to their earnings.
In conclusion, ZIP 45135 should be considered as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The positive spread between the FMR and market rental rates, combined with a stable median home value and moderate renter share, makes this area an ideal location for securing predictable and dependable income streams.
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.