Location: Vinton County, OH | Metro: Athens 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 | $930 |
| 1 Bedroom | $950 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,130 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,798 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,014 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,175 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,284 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,130 | $187,322 | 0.6% | D |
| 3BR | $1,390 | $245,970 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $1,550 | $297,016 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 45710, Albany, Ohio, is set at $1,030 for the fiscal year 2026. This figure represents the payment standard for landlords participating in the Section 8 program, but it's important to note that this is not the amount you will receive directly from tenants. Instead, it's the maximum amount that the housing authority will pay on behalf of the tenant.
In comparison, the average rent for the area based on Census ACS data is $869. This means that the Section 8 payment standard is higher than the typical market rate, offering a financial buffer for landlords. However, the actual rent you can charge under the program is capped at $1,030, so your rental income will be consistent with this limit.
The 17.2% share of renters in the community indicates a moderate demand for rental properties. While not overwhelming, there is a steady pool of potential tenants who could benefit from the Section 8 program. This percentage suggests that about one in every six residents in the area are renters, providing a reasonable opportunity for finding tenants.
When considering the acquisition cost of a property, the median home value of $204,054 is a key factor. This figure gives you an idea of the investment required to purchase a property in the area. Given the payment standard and the current market conditions, a Section 8 rental can be a viable option for generating steady income.
Before proceeding with a Section 8 rental, it's crucial to verify that the property meets all the necessary standards and requirements set by the local housing authority. These include safety, health, and structural standards. Ensuring compliance with these regulations upfront will save time and prevent any issues that could delay the process of becoming a Section 8 landlord.
Participating in the Section 8 program can provide stability and predictability in rental income, which is particularly beneficial for new landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to enter the market in ZIP 45710. With a clear understanding of the payment standard and the local rental landscape, you can make an informed decision about whether this program is right for you.
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.