Location: Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek, 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 | $900 |
| 1 Bedroom | $990 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,274 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,456 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,579 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $990 | $71,304 | 1.39% | A |
| 2BR | $1,230 | $118,189 | 1.04% | B |
| 3BR | $1,600 | $139,404 | 1.15% | B |
| 4BR | $1,750 | $152,715 | 1.15% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $990 for zip code 45410 in Dayton, OH, landlords should note that this figure represents the upper limit for Section 8 payments in the area. The actual market rent, measured by the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), stands at $1,220, indicating a premium over the FMR. Given the median home value of $129,574, it's evident that Dayton offers a relatively affordable market for both renters and homeowners. However, with a renter share of 50.7%, the demand for rental properties is significant, making it a viable investment option.
The median income of $46,651 suggests that tenants qualifying for Section 8 assistance would be earning below this threshold, which could impact their ability to cover additional costs beyond the subsidized rent. Despite the lack of specific data on days on market (DOM), the low price-cut share of 0.3% indicates that once a property is listed, it doesn't typically require price adjustments to attract tenants, signaling a stable rental market.
In conclusion, the disparity between the FMR of $990 and the ZORI of $1,220 presents an opportunity for landlords to leverage the higher market rents while still participating in the Section 8 program. With a strong renter base and minimal need for price reductions, the potential for steady cash flow exists. However, investors must consider the lower median income when assessing tenant reliability. Verdict: Suitable for Section 8 participation with careful tenant selection.
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.