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 | $1,120 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,210 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,290 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,656 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,975 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,213 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,374 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,540 | $249,048 | 0.62% | D |
| 3BR | $2,030 | $312,598 | 0.65% | D |
| 4BR | $2,290 | $500,488 | 0.46% | F |
| 5BR | $2,656 | $709,896 | 0.37% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential risks for investing in Section 8 housing in ZIP code 45241 in Sharonville, OH, include significant tenant turnover. The market rent stands at $1,679, while the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 is set at $1,410. This discrepancy can lead to higher turnover rates as tenants might seek properties that better match their financial capabilities. Additionally, there is a notable exposure to vacancies due to the average days on market (DOM) being only 7 days, indicating a competitive rental market where properties can remain vacant longer if not priced correctly.
Deferred maintenance is another critical concern, especially considering the typical home value of $392,074 and the median income of $103,585. Landlords may face challenges in maintaining properties to meet the standards required by the Section 8 program, which can be costly. The lower median income suggests that tenants might have limited resources to contribute towards property upkeep, placing the burden on the landlord to ensure compliance with housing quality requirements.
However, these risks are offset by the high concentration of renters in the area, with 27.6% of the population being renters. This high renter density typically translates into a robust demand for rental properties, including those that accept Section 8 vouchers. The substantial number of potential tenants increases the likelihood of finding suitable occupants who are willing to use their vouchers to secure housing.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.