Location: Taunton-Mansfield-Norton, 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 | $247,931 | 0.9% | C |
| 2BR | $2,650 | $452,946 | 0.59% | F |
| 3BR | $3,180 | $676,706 | 0.47% | F |
| 4BR | $3,510 | $876,035 | 0.4% | F |
| 5BR | $4,072 | $958,137 | 0.42% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 02048 in Mansfield, Massachusetts, stands out within Bristol County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 23,931 residents, 26.9% of whom rent their homes, it reflects a community that is predominantly owner-occupied. The median household income in 02048 is $125,273, indicating a relatively affluent area compared to national averages. Furthermore, the median home value of $708,854 underscores the high cost of homeownership in this region.
For landlords and small-portfolio investors, the voucher economics present an opportunity to serve the rental market effectively. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 02048, set at $2,380 for fiscal year 2024, is notably lower than the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), which stands at $2,693. This discrepancy suggests that landlords can still attract tenants through the Section 8 program while maintaining a competitive edge in the local rental market. However, it also implies that landlords might need to adjust their expectations regarding rental income if relying solely on Section 8 vouchers.
Evaluating the data signature of ZIP 02048, it reads as stable. The modest percentage of renters and the high median income suggest that the majority of residents are financially secure homeowners. While the rental market is active, the gap between FMR and ZORI indicates that there is a segment of the population that could benefit from affordable housing solutions such as Section 8 vouchers. For investors, this stability means predictable returns and a reliable tenant base, assuming they manage their properties well to meet both voucher requirements and market demands.
In conclusion, ZIP 02048 offers a balanced environment for real estate investment, particularly for those interested in the rental sector. The economic indicators point towards a stable market, making it a suitable choice for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to capitalize on both the Section 8 program and the broader rental market dynamics.
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.