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 | $1,180 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,270 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,620 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,410 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,796 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,132 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,383 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,552 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,620 | $325,913 | 0.5% | F |
| 3BR | $2,130 | $480,707 | 0.44% | F |
| 4BR | $2,410 | $819,903 | 0.29% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
37.1% of residents in ZIP 45226, Cincinnati, OH, are renters, indicating a significant portion of the population relies on rental housing. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $1330 per month for zip FY 2024, provides a benchmark for landlords to ensure their rents align with HUD's guidelines. Meanwhile, the Zillow Observed Rental Index (ZORI) stands at $1,545, suggesting that market rents exceed the FMR, which can be advantageous for landlords seeking to maximize their rental income. However, it's important to note that the median income in the area is $97,558, meaning that while rents are higher, they must remain affordable for potential tenants.
The median home value in ZIP 45226 is $461,068, reflecting the overall property values in the area. This figure is crucial for investors looking to purchase properties for long-term rental investments, as it indicates the current market value of homes. Additionally, the low price-cut share of 0.2% suggests that homes in this area are generally selling at or near their asking prices, without the need for significant discounts. This stability in pricing can provide comfort to investors who are concerned about the volatility of the housing market.
Given the data, landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the balance between the FMR and market rents when setting their rental prices. The high renter share also points to a robust demand for rental properties, which can be leveraged to attract tenants. The median income figure ensures that the local population has the financial capability to afford the higher rents, making ZIP 45226 a viable investment location.
Verdict: ZIP 45226 presents a favorable environment for Section 8 investments, with a strong renter base and market rents above the FMR, ensuring both compliance and profitability.
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.