Location: Hardin County, OH | Metro: Hardin County, OH
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $890 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,717 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,923 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,077 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,181 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 45835 represents a sparsely populated area with only 449 residents. Given the low number of renters at just 4.8%, it's clear that homeownership is the predominant form of residence here. The median income of $76,042 suggests a relatively affluent community where many can afford to purchase homes, which aligns with the median home value of $186,343.
Moving into the realm of rental economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $990. However, the lack of available market rent data indicates either a minimal rental market or a significant reliance on government assistance such as Section 8 vouchers. This discrepancy between FMR and the absence of market rent figures points to a potential gap that could be filled by enterprising landlords willing to cater to the needs of those who might otherwise struggle to find suitable housing.
In evaluating whether this area suits a hands-off voucher operator or requires a more hands-on approach, the characteristics of ZIP 45835 suggest a niche opportunity. With a strong homeowner base and limited rental properties, landlords who can provide quality housing at or near the FMR level will likely attract tenants using Section 8 vouchers. A hands-off strategy could work if the focus is on maintaining properties without significant upgrades, given the high median income and home values imply a stable economic environment. Conversely, a hands-on value-add buyer might find success by identifying underutilized properties and enhancing them to meet the standards of both voucher recipients and market-rate renters, thereby commanding higher rents and increasing property value.
To summarize:
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.