Location: Franklin County, MA | Metro: Franklin County, MA
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 | $1,410 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,540 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,650 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,074 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,443 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,718 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,904 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,020 | $328,177 | 0.62% | D |
| 3BR | $2,410 | $421,987 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $2,650 | $463,179 | 0.57% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
1630 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 01351 in Montague, MA, for fiscal year 2024. 1520 is the average market rent for the area, based on Census ACS data, indicating that properties meeting or slightly exceeding this figure could be competitive. 387876 represents the median home value, suggesting that homeownership remains relatively affordable compared to other markets. 24.4 is the percentage of households that rent, highlighting a significant but not overwhelming rental market presence. 98229 is the median income level for the area, which is important for assessing the financial capacity of potential tenants. Despite the lack of specific data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut shares, these figures provide a robust snapshot of the rental landscape in Montague, MA.
In terms of investment strategy, landlords and small-portfolio investors should focus on properties that can be rented out for close to the $1630 FMR without exceeding the $1520 market rent too significantly. This balance ensures compliance with HUD guidelines while maintaining market competitiveness. The median home value at $387,876 suggests that there is potential for property appreciation, making it an attractive location for buy-and-hold strategies. With a 24.4% renter share, there is a steady demand for rental units, though competition will be present. The median income of $98,229 provides assurance that tenants can afford higher rents, particularly if they qualify for assistance programs.
A final consideration is the absence of specific data on days on market and price-cut shares. This gap indicates a need for thorough local market research to understand how quickly properties typically sell and whether price reductions are common. However, the overall figures suggest a stable and potentially profitable rental market in Montague, MA.
Based on the provided data, the verdict for Section 8 participation in Montague, MA is positive, given the alignment between the FMR and market rents, along with the reasonable median home value and income levels supporting tenant affordability.
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.