Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 45874 - 2027

Location: Van Wert County, OH | Metro: Van Wert County, OH

Investment Score for ZIP 45874

Monthly Rent (2BR)

$1,200

Median Price (2BR)

$134,346

1% Rule

0.89%

Annual Yield

10.72%

Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size	Monthly FMR
Studio	$920
1 Bedroom	$950
2 Bedrooms	$1,200
3 Bedrooms	$1,510
4 Bedrooms	$1,630
5 Bedrooms	$1,891
6 Bedrooms	$2,118
7 Bedrooms	$2,287
8 Bedrooms	$2,401

Investment Analysis by Bedroom Size

Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)

Bedrooms	Monthly FMR	Median Price	1% Rule	Grade
2BR	$1,200	$134,346	0.89%	C
3BR	$1,510	$195,566	0.77%	D
4BR	$1,630	$230,393	0.71%	D

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Population

1,820

Median Household Income

$68,521

Housing Units

800

Renter Percentage

7.5%

Occupancy Rate

81.4%

Renter Occupied

Ohio City, OH, located in ZIP code 45874, is a vibrant neighborhood within Columbus, Ohio, known for its blend of urban living and community spirit. This area has seen increasing interest from both residents and investors alike, driven by its proximity to downtown amenities and cultural attractions.

The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a two-bedroom apartment in the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,080, indicating a robust rental market.
The average market rent for the same size unit, according to Census ACS data, stands at $697, suggesting there is room for rental price increases to align with the FMR.
The median home value in Ohio City is $175,502, making it an affordable option for first-time buyers and investors looking to build equity.
Renters make up only 7.5% of the housing market, which is lower than the national average, potentially signaling a strong demand for homeownership over renting.
The median income for residents is $68,521, providing a stable economic base that supports consistent rental payments and property values.

Investors in Ohio City should focus on properties that can be rented at or near the FMR, as the current market rent is below this benchmark. The relatively low median home value offers an opportunity for acquisition at a lower cost, while the steady median income suggests that tenants will have the means to pay higher rents. However, the low renter share indicates a preference among residents for owning homes, which could mean fewer renters and thus a more competitive rental market. For small-portfolio investors, targeting the rental market with properties that offer good value for money could prove lucrative, but they must be prepared to compete with owner-occupiers and possibly adjust their investment strategy to include both rental and sale opportunities.

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.