Location: Gallia County, OH | Metro: Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH 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 | $800 |
| 1 Bedroom | $920 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,690 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,960 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,195 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,371 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,490 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,040 | $118,253 | 0.88% | C |
| 3BR | $1,360 | $189,978 | 0.72% | D |
| 4BR | $1,690 | $287,766 | 0.59% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rental market in ZIP 45623, located in Crown City, Ohio, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The median household income in this area stands at $57,118, which places significant constraints on the financial capacity of renters to pay higher market rates. Currently, the market rate for rent in this region is $827 per month, according to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS).
However, when compared to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for fiscal year 2024, which is $1000 for this zip code, the disparity becomes evident. This means that while the market rate is lower than the voucher payment standard, it still represents a considerable portion of the average household's income.
In Crown City, where 18.3% of the 3,203 residents are renters, the affordability gap poses a significant challenge for landlords. The difference between the market rate and the FMR indicates that there is a substantial number of renters who may struggle to meet the market rate without assistance. This creates a competitive landscape for landlords, especially those who rely solely on market-rate rents.
The takeaway for landlords considering their strategy in ZIP 45623 is clear: embracing a mix of voucher and cash-pay tenants could be beneficial. While cash-pay tenants might offer a smoother rental experience, the availability of vouchers at a higher rate ($1000) ensures a steady income stream that aligns with the HUD standards. Landlords should also consider the potential for increased demand among voucher recipients due to the high cost of living relative to the median income, making voucher acceptance a strategic move to remain competitive in the local rental market.
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.