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 | $1,430 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,440 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,860 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,300 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,550 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,958 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,313 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,578 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,757 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,440 | $260,742 | 0.55% | F |
| 2BR | $1,860 | $384,061 | 0.48% | F |
| 3BR | $2,300 | $469,905 | 0.49% | F |
| 4BR | $2,550 | $562,795 | 0.45% | F |
| 5BR | $2,958 | $594,148 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 01571, located in Dudley, Massachusetts, presents an interesting landscape for both renters and landlords. The median household income here stands at $84,604, which is a solid figure but doesn't fully cover the market rate for rent. According to Census ACS data, the average rent in Dudley is $1,217 per month. This means that a significant portion of a household's income would go towards rent, potentially straining budgets for other necessities.
Comparatively, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set for zip code 01571 for fiscal year 2024 is $1,480. This amount represents the standard payment for housing vouchers, which is higher than the market rate. For renters, this could be seen as a positive aspect, as it provides a buffer against rising market rates and allows for more affordable living options when participating in the Section 8 program.
With 26.9% of the population being renters and a total population of 11,929, there is a notable segment of the community that relies on rental housing. The affordability gap between the median income and the rent market rate suggests that many households may find it challenging to secure housing without assistance. This gap also implies that landlords might face competition from properties that accept Section 8 vouchers, given the higher subsidy amounts compared to the market rate.
The takeaway for landlords considering their strategy between accepting vouchers versus relying on cash-paying tenants is clear. While cash-paying tenants might offer quicker and more straightforward transactions, the higher guaranteed payments through Section 8 vouchers can provide a more stable income stream. Landlords should weigh the benefits of increased stability against the administrative requirements of participating in the voucher program. Given the higher FMR subsidy and the potential strain on local renters' budgets, embracing voucher tenants can be a strategic move to ensure occupancy and financial security in the long term.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.