Location: Berkshire County, 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 | $1,290 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,310 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,710 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,860 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,318 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,716 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,013 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,214 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,710 | $403,382 | 0.42% | F |
| 3BR | $2,340 | $520,600 | 0.45% | F |
| 4BR | $2,860 | $691,769 | 0.41% | F |
| 5BR | $3,318 | $915,692 | 0.36% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The town of Sheffield, Massachusetts, located in Berkshire County, offers a unique blend of rural charm and proximity to cultural amenities. With a population that appreciates the natural beauty of the Berkshires, it presents a stable rental market for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The disparity between the Fair Market Rent and the actual market rent suggests a premium that can be charged for quality rentals, benefiting landlords and small-portfolio investors. The high median home value and median income indicate a financially capable resident base, likely able to sustain higher rents. However, with a significant portion of residents renting, there is a notable demand for rental properties. This analysis points to a favorable investment climate in Sheffield, particularly for those who can offer well-maintained, desirable rental units that cater to the local economic profile.
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.