Location: Vinton County, OH | Metro: Gallia County, OH
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 | $850 |
| 1 Bedroom | $980 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,120 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,820 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,111 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,364 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,553 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,681 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,120 | $152,234 | 0.74% | D |
| 3BR | $1,450 | $195,595 | 0.74% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 cap-rate analysis for ZIP 45686, Vinton, OH, reveals two distinct scenarios based on the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and market rent figures. The annualized 2BR FMR for FY 2026 is set at $1,060, while the Census ACS market rent stands at $924.
To derive the gross yield, we first calculate the annual rental income. For the FMR scenario, multiplying $1,060 by 12 months yields an annual rental income of $12,720. Given the median home value of $157,890, the implied gross yield for this scenario is approximately 8.06%. This is calculated as follows: $12,720 / $157,890 = 0.0806 or 8.06%.
In the case of the market rent, the annual rental income is $924 multiplied by 12 months, resulting in $11,088. Using the same median home value of $157,890, the implied gross yield here is about 7.03%. The calculation is straightforward: $11,088 / $157,890 = 0.0703 or 7.03%.
The gross yield comparison shows that the FMR scenario provides a higher return of 8.06%, compared to the market rent scenario's 7.03%. However, the decision on which figure to use should be grounded in reality. With a renter density of only 19.0%, it is critical to consider the local demand for rental properties. Additionally, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) suggests either a stable housing market or a scarcity of recent transaction records.
Given these factors, the market rent scenario is more realistic. Landlords and small-portfolio investors must account for the lower demand for rentals and ensure they can maintain occupancy rates. While the FMR scenario offers a more attractive gross yield, relying solely on government subsidies without considering the broader market dynamics could lead to mispricing risks.
In conclusion, for ZIP 45686, the market rent of $924 per month, leading to a gross yield of 7.03%, is the more practical figure for investment analysis. This reflects the actual rental market conditions and the potential challenges in maintaining occupancy levels.
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.