Location: Lowell, MA | Metro: Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH 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 | $2,310 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,460 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,070 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,680 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $4,040 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,686 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $5,248 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,668 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,951 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $3,070 | $1,052,285 | 0.29% | F |
| 3BR | $3,680 | $1,119,612 | 0.33% | F |
| 4BR | $4,040 | $1,365,102 | 0.3% | F |
| 5BR | $4,686 | $1,912,666 | 0.24% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 01741, located in Carlisle, MA within the Lowell, MA HUD Metro FMR Area, serves as an ideal cash-flow anchor for a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This designation is based on the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent, as well as the high median home value.
In fiscal year 2024, the FMR for ZIP 01741 is set at $2380. However, the current market rent stands at $1,313, which is substantially lower. This discrepancy means that landlords can receive higher rental payments through the Section 8 program compared to what they might get in the open market. The difference ensures a steady and reliable cash flow, making it a strong choice for anchoring a portfolio.
The median home value in ZIP 01741 is $1,322,205, indicating a relatively affluent area. While this high value might suggest opportunities for appreciation plays, the lack of specific data on price-cut shares and days on market (DOM) makes it difficult to support such a strategy. Therefore, focusing on cash flow stability is more prudent given the available information.
ZIP 01741 does not fit well into the diversifier category, despite having a 6.4% renter share and a median income of $250,011. These figures point towards a predominantly owner-occupied area with a strong economic base. Diversification strategies typically seek out areas with varied income levels and tenant mixes to spread risk, but the high median home value and limited rental market indicate a more specialized investment focus rather than a broad diversification opportunity.
To summarize, ZIP 01741 should be considered primarily as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The substantial gap between the FMR and market rent, combined with the high median home value, supports this role effectively. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can rely on this ZIP code to provide consistent and above-market rental income, ensuring financial stability and predictability.
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.