Location: Preble County, OH | Metro: Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek, OH MSA
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 | $870 |
| 1 Bedroom | $880 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,060 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,659 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,858 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,007 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,107 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,060 | $175,990 | 0.6% | D |
| 3BR | $1,420 | $253,919 | 0.56% | F |
| 4BR | $1,430 | $312,073 | 0.46% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The renter's perspective in ZIP 45304, located in Arcanum, Ohio, reveals a challenging affordability gap. The median income for households in this area stands at $78,125, which contrasts sharply with the market rate rental cost of $827 per month according to the Census ACS. This means that a significant portion of the monthly income would be dedicated solely to housing, leaving little for other necessities.
When considering the Federal Market Rent (FMR) standard of $880 for zip FY 2024, the situation becomes even more pronounced. Voucher holders receive a payment standard that exceeds the current market rate, indicating that the government aims to cover a higher portion of the rental costs in this region. However, the actual market rate is still above the typical household's income level, suggesting that many renters might struggle to cover additional costs without assistance.
Arcanum has a relatively low percentage of renters at 17.6%, with a total population of 7,599. This limited demand for rental properties could intensify competition among landlords, especially those targeting cash-paying tenants. Landlords who rely on non-subsidized rents may find themselves competing with lower rates offered by others, making it difficult to maintain high occupancy rates or achieve desired profit margins.
The affordability gap in Arcanum means that landlords should consider the benefits of accepting Section 8 vouchers. While voucher payments are typically stable and timely, they do come with some administrative burdens and eligibility requirements. For landlords aiming to secure long-term, reliable tenancy, the strategy of accepting vouchers could prove advantageous. It ensures a steady stream of income, albeit slightly above the market rate, while tapping into a segment of the market that might otherwise face significant barriers to finding suitable housing.
In summary, landlords in Arcanum must weigh the pros and cons of voucher versus cash-pay strategies. Accepting vouchers can provide a buffer against the financial strain renters face due to the high cost of living relative to their incomes. This approach not only supports tenant stability but also helps landlords navigate the competitive landscape of a market where affordability is a pressing concern.
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.