Location: Eastern Worcester County, 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 | $2,130 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,230 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,650 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,180 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,072 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,561 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,926 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,172 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $2,230 | $456,592 | 0.49% | F |
| 2BR | $2,650 | $473,347 | 0.56% | F |
| 3BR | $3,180 | $607,564 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $3,510 | $762,871 | 0.46% | F |
| 5BR | $4,072 | $775,066 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 01749, located in Hudson, MA, stands out within Middlesex County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 20,077 residents, it has a rental rate of 26.8%, which is slightly above the national average. The median income in this area is $103,400, indicating a relatively affluent community. However, the median home value of $611,714 is significantly higher than the typical household income, suggesting that homeownership might be challenging for some residents.
Moving to the specifics of Section 8 voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 01749 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $2,380. This figure is notably lower than the market rent, as measured by ZORI (Zillow Observed Rent Index), which is $2,551. This difference highlights that landlords accepting Section 8 vouchers in Hudson, MA, can expect to receive a rent subsidy that is below the current market rates. Despite this gap, the program still offers a reliable source of income, backed by the federal government, ensuring timely payments.
The data signature for ZIP 01749 reads as stable. The consistent median income and median home value indicate a settled community with established housing patterns. While the rental rate is slightly elevated, the overall economic indicators suggest a steady environment where landlords can operate with confidence. The slight disparity between FMR and market rent does not signal a transitional phase but rather reflects the general affordability challenges faced by renters in the area.
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.