Location: Huntington-Ashland, WV | 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 | $860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,612 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,805 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,046 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,000 | $128,219 | 0.78% | D |
| 3BR | $1,280 | $221,413 | 0.58% | F |
| 4BR | $1,390 | $325,897 | 0.43% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 45669, located in the Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH HUD Metro FMR area, serves as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 45669 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $920, which is very close to the market rate of $926. This minor spread of $6 indicates that rental properties in this ZIP code will be well-utilized under the Section 8 program, ensuring steady cash flow.
The median home value of $189,473 suggests that this area is not experiencing rapid appreciation. With a 0.2% price-cut share and an N/A-day days on market (DOM), it's clear that the real estate market here is stable but not particularly dynamic. This stability is beneficial for long-term investment strategies focused on consistent cash flow rather than short-term capital gains.
Additionally, the 25.1% renter share and median income of $67,500 align with the characteristics of a cash-flow anchor. The relatively low median income means that tenants are likely to be reliant on the Section 8 voucher program, making it easier to fill vacancies and maintain occupancy rates. Landlords can expect a reliable tenant base that is less sensitive to market fluctuations.
In summary, ZIP 45669 provides a solid foundation for a Section 8 portfolio due to its alignment with the FMR, stable real estate market, and a significant renter population. These factors ensure that properties in this area will generate predictable cash flow, making them an excellent choice for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking financial security.
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.