Location: Worcester, MA | Metro: Worcester, MA 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 | $1,640 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,650 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,120 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,660 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,030 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,515 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,937 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,252 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,465 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,120 | $427,532 | 0.5% | F |
| 3BR | $2,660 | $555,088 | 0.48% | F |
| 4BR | $3,030 | $669,720 | 0.45% | F |
| 5BR | $3,515 | $749,572 | 0.47% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 01516, located in Douglas, MA, presents an interesting scenario when viewed from the renter's perspective. The median household income here is a substantial $153,172. However, the market rate rent stands at $1,503 per month according to the Census ACS data. This suggests that while incomes are high, so are living costs.
Comparing the market rate to the federal payment standard for housing vouchers, which is set at $1,600 for ZIP 01516 in fiscal year 2024, it appears that voucher holders could potentially pay slightly more than the market rate. This could be advantageous for landlords looking to maximize their rental income.
Douglas has a relatively low percentage of renters at 15.5%, with a total population of 9,376. Given these numbers, the competition among landlords for tenants is likely to be moderate. The affordability gap, where the market rate rent is lower than the voucher payment standard, means that landlords might find it easier to attract voucher recipients compared to those paying out-of-pocket.
For landlords considering their strategy between accepting vouchers versus cash-paying tenants, the takeaway is clear. Voucher holders offer a reliable source of income, backed by the government, and they can potentially pay higher rates than the market average. This makes them an attractive option, especially in a market where competition for tenants is not overly intense.
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.