Location: Meigs County, OH | Metro: Meigs 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 | $790 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,050 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,856 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,079 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,245 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,357 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,050 | $134,010 | 0.78% | D |
| 3BR | $1,250 | $192,743 | 0.65% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 thesis in ZIP code 45771, centered around Racine, OH, reveals a significant opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,020 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 stands notably higher than the actual market rent of $691 as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). This creates a gap of $329 per month, representing an increase of approximately 48% over the current market rent.
The disparity between these two figures makes the ZIP code a prime yield play for property owners willing to accept Section 8 housing vouchers. Given that 31.1% of residents are renters and the median income is $43,750, many individuals rely on government assistance to secure affordable housing. By participating in the Section 8 program, landlords can capitalize on the higher FMR rate, which is significantly above the local market rent. This allows them to achieve better rental yields compared to the open-market rates.
In Racine, OH, where the median home value is $125,418, the cost of housing voucher tenants below open-market rates does not apply since the FMR exceeds the market rent. However, it is important to note that landlords must comply with federal guidelines, ensuring that their properties meet the Housing Quality Standards (HQS) and that they maintain a relationship with the local housing authority. These requirements are standard for all Section 8 landlords and do not affect the financial advantage of renting to voucher holders in this case.
To summarize, the $329 monthly difference, or 48%, between the FMR and market rent in ZIP 45771 provides a compelling reason for landlords to consider accepting Section 8 vouchers. This not only helps address the housing needs of low-income families but also offers a substantial financial benefit in a region where nearly one-third of the population rents their homes.
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.