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 | $1,280 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,380 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,760 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,320 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,610 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,028 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,391 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,662 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,845 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,760 | $172,475 | 1.02% | B |
| 3BR | $2,320 | $298,710 | 0.78% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rent math in ZIP code 45153, located in Moscow, Ohio, within the Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN HUD Metro FMR Area, does not work favorably for landlords. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,010 for fiscal year 2024 is significantly lower than the reported market rent of $1,294, based on Census ACS data. This discrepancy suggests that landlords might struggle to cover their costs if they adhere strictly to the FMR guidelines.
Regarding acquisition affordability, the median home value stands at $266,952. However, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that were sold with price cuts indicates that there is insufficient information to make a comprehensive judgment on how easy it would be to purchase properties in this area. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should proceed with caution until more detailed market conditions are available.
Tenant demand in ZIP 45153 is modest. With a total population of 2,218, only 17.7% of residents are renters. This relatively low share of renters means that the pool of potential tenants is limited, which could pose challenges for maintaining occupancy rates.
In summary, while the median home value in ZIP 45153 presents a reasonable entry point for investment, the unfavorable rent math and limited tenant demand suggest that this area may not be ideal for landlords or small-portfolio investors seeking stable returns. The absence of data on DOM and price-cut shares further complicates the assessment of acquisition feasibility. Investors should carefully consider these factors before making any decisions.
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.