Location: Springfield, MA | Metro: Berkshire County, MA (part) HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $1,130 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,250 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,990 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,590 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,004 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,364 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,633 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,815 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,570 | $324,003 | 0.48% | F |
| 3BR | $1,990 | $408,173 | 0.49% | F |
| 4BR | $2,590 | $453,400 | 0.57% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of the Section 8 program in ZIP code 01008, specifically Blandford, Massachusetts, reveals a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2024, the FMR is set at $1530, whereas the Census ACS reports the market rent at $1,047. This means that the FMR is $483 higher than the market rent, representing a 46.1% premium over the average market rate.
This gap makes Blandford an attractive location for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking to maximize their rental yields. Voucher tenants, who are guaranteed to pay the full FMR amount, provide a stable and predictable revenue stream that exceeds the typical market rate. This is particularly advantageous given that only 2.9% of Blandford's population are renters, indicating a smaller pool of potential tenants and thus a greater need for properties that can be rented at a premium.
The median home value in Blandford stands at $364,685, which is considerably higher than the median household income of $97,554. This disparity suggests that homeownership may be out of reach for many residents, further emphasizing the importance of affordable rental options. The higher FMR for Section 8 vouchers helps bridge this affordability gap, making it easier for low-income families to secure housing in Blandford.
However, it's important to note that accepting housing voucher tenants comes with its own set of costs and considerations. Landlords must comply with HUD regulations and undergo inspections, which can add to the overall management burden. Additionally, while the FMR provides a higher rent than the market rate, the cost of maintaining voucher compliance and the time spent on administrative tasks should be factored into the investment strategy.
In summary, the $483 premium or 46.1% increase in FMR compared to market rent in Blandford, MA, positions Section 8 properties as a strong yield play for landlords and investors. The high median home value and relatively low median income highlight the necessity of affordable housing solutions, making Section 8 vouchers a valuable tool in addressing local housing needs.
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.