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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,000 | $93,567 | 1.07% | B |
| 2BR | $1,280 | $135,396 | 0.95% | C |
| 3BR | $1,680 | $169,088 | 0.99% | C |
| 4BR | $1,900 | $203,486 | 0.93% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 45216 in Cincinnati, OH, presents a dynamic rental market. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1140 for fiscal year 2024 and a market rent of $1,473 as indicated by ZORI (Zillow Observed Rental Index), it's clear that the market is robust, favoring demand over supply. The relatively low price-cut share of 0.2% suggests that landlords are maintaining their rents without needing to reduce them to attract tenants, further indicating strong tenant interest.
The median home value in the area stands at $158,820, which is likely to influence the local rental market. Given that buying a home in this area is within reach for many, the 48.9% renter share implies that a significant portion of the population chooses to rent rather than buy. This choice could be due to various factors including job instability, desire for mobility, or simply preferring the flexibility and lower upfront costs associated with renting.
The high percentage of renters signals long-term housing pressure in the form of persistent demand for rental properties. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should take note of this trend, as it suggests that rental properties will continue to be sought after. However, the absence of data on days on market (DOM) makes it difficult to assess the speed at which rental units are being occupied or vacated, which is crucial for understanding the immediate turnover dynamics.
In summary, ZIP 45216 appears to be a market where demand for rentals is strong, evidenced by the high market rent and low price-cut share. The substantial renter share points towards sustained pressure on the rental sector, making it a viable investment option for those looking to capitalize on the current market conditions.
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.