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 | $122,001 | 0.82% | C |
| 3BR | $1,280 | $176,416 | 0.73% | D |
| 4BR | $1,390 | $232,621 | 0.6% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 45680, located in South Point, OH, is a significant area for landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in Section 8 tenants. With a population of 11,548, this region has a notable 36.7% of residents who are renters, indicating a substantial demand for rental properties. The median household income in this ZIP is $54,523, which provides a useful benchmark for assessing the affordability of housing.
The average market rent in this area is $769 per month, representing approximately 14.1% of the median household income. This percentage suggests that rent is a manageable expense for many households, even those relying on government assistance. However, it's important to note that the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2024 is set at $920, indicating that the actual market rent is below the FMR, which could be advantageous for landlords looking to attract Section 8 tenants.
The discrepancy between the market rent and the FMR means that landlords have some flexibility in setting their rents while still remaining within the allowable limits for Section 8 vouchers. At $769, the typical rent eats up less than half of the monthly income for a household receiving full Section 8 assistance, making it easier for these tenants to manage other living expenses.
A landlord in ZIP 45680 can expect a tenant profile that includes individuals and families who rely heavily on Section 8 vouchers. These tenants will likely be seeking affordable housing options that do not exceed their budget constraints. Given the lower-than-FMR market rent, landlords should find that they can attract and retain tenants without exceeding the voucher limits, thus ensuring steady and reliable rental income.
In conclusion, ZIP 45680 is a renter-heavy area with a strong demand for Section 8 vouchers. The current market conditions, with an average rent of $769 compared to the FMR of $920, present a favorable environment for landlords who wish to cater to this tenant pool. Landlords should prepare for tenants who are financially dependent on government assistance but capable of maintaining their rental obligations within the given parameters.
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.