Location: Pittsfield, MA | Metro: Pittsfield, MA HUD Metro FMR Area
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,530 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,550 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,680 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,340 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,874 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,339 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,686 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,920 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The economics of Section 8 housing in ZIP code 01260 are straightforward. The SAFMR (Standard Amount for Moderate Rehabilitation) for a two-bedroom unit is set at $1580 for fiscal year 2024. This rate is specific to this ZIP code, meaning it does not necessarily reflect the rates in adjacent areas.
To understand what a voucher actually pays, you must factor in the tenant's portion of the rent and any utility allowances. The tenant is required to pay 30% of their adjusted income towards rent. If we assume an average adjusted income of $1500 for tenants in this program, the tenant's portion would be $450. This leaves $1130 from the voucher to cover the remaining rent.
Utility allowances vary but typically add around $200 to $300 to the monthly reimbursement. For simplicity, let's use a midpoint figure of $250 for utility allowances. Adding this to the $1130 leaves a total reimbursement of $1380 per month.
This means that if the local market rent for a two-bedroom unit is higher than $1580, landlords will face a shortfall. However, since the local market rent data is currently unavailable, we cannot provide a precise surplus or shortfall figure. But using the SAFMR of $1580 as a baseline, landlords should expect a reimbursement of approximately $1380 once the tenant's contribution and utility allowances are considered.
Landlords need to ensure that their rental properties meet the criteria for Section 8 participation, including passing inspections and maintaining rent levels within the allowable limits. The reimbursement gap or surplus will depend on the actual market conditions and the specific terms agreed upon with the housing authority.
In summary, for a two-bedroom unit in ZIP 01260, the landlord can expect a Section 8 voucher payment of about $1380 per month, which includes the tenant's 30% contribution and utility allowances. This amount will either cover your costs or leave a gap depending on your actual expenses and the market rent in your area.
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.