Location: Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA | Metro: Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area
| 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 |
The Section 8 housing market in ZIP code 02051, located within the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy County, offers a unique opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area in fiscal year 2024 is set at $2380 per month for a standard unit. However, the lack of available market rent data for comparison makes it challenging to assess the exact cashflow potential. Based on the HUD FMR alone, landlords can expect marginal cashflow from voucher tenants in this region.
The median home value in ZIP 02051 is not available, which hinders the ability to calculate a precise rent-to-price ratio. Nevertheless, the high cost of living in the Boston metropolitan area suggests that rental properties remain a viable option for many residents, including those relying on Section 8 vouchers. This implies that even without premium units, there is a steady demand for rental properties that can be supported by the FMR.
While specific data on days-on-market (DOM) and price-cut shares are not provided, the strong rental market in the Boston area indicates that the rent-versus-buy dynamics favor rental investments. The limited availability of affordable housing options in the region means that landlords can rely on a consistent stream of tenants, particularly those with Section 8 vouchers.
The strongest angle for investors in this market is stability. With a robust demand for rental properties and a reliable source of income through the HUD FMR, landlords can secure long-term, stable cashflow from their investments in ZIP 02051. This stability is crucial for small-portfolio investors looking to minimize risk while maintaining a steady income stream.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027).
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.