Location: Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, 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 | $2,400 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,480 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,960 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,530 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,890 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,512 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $5,053 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,457 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,730 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $2,480 | $421,754 | 0.59% | F |
| 2BR | $2,960 | $577,801 | 0.51% | F |
| 3BR | $3,530 | $741,003 | 0.48% | F |
| 4BR | $3,890 | $870,290 | 0.45% | F |
| 5BR | $4,512 | $993,016 | 0.45% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 02131, located in Boston, MA, falls within the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area. Its Fair Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2024 is set at $2,720. This figure compares to the area's broader average FMR, which is used to determine eligibility for housing assistance programs.
The market rent in ZIP 02131 is slightly higher at $2,925, indicating that rents are above the HUD-set FMR but still within a reasonable range for the area. The median home value stands at $727,824, which is reflective of the overall high cost of living in the Boston metropolitan area.
A key metric for landlords and investors is the percentage of renters, which in ZIP 02131 is 40.7%. This suggests a significant portion of the population relies on rental properties, making it an attractive location for those interested in the rental market.
When comparing these figures to typical ZIP codes within the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area, ZIP 02131 emerges as a mid-tier neighborhood. The FMR and market rent are indicative of a moderately priced rental market, not the highest in the city but certainly not the lowest either. The home value aligns closely with the metro's general real estate pricing trends, suggesting that while it's not a value pocket, it also doesn't represent the premium sub-markets found in some parts of the city.
The divergence between the high renter share and the home value indicates a neighborhood where a substantial number of residents choose to rent rather than buy. This characteristic can signal a potential sweet spot for Section 8 investors, as it suggests a demand for affordable rental housing. However, the relatively high home values and moderate FMR suggest that while there might be opportunities for Section 8 housing, they would be limited compared to areas with lower home values and higher renter shares.
In summary, ZIP 02131 presents itself as a mid-tier neighborhood within the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area. It offers a balance between affordability and desirability, making it a solid choice for landlords and investors looking to enter a stable rental market without the extreme costs associated with premium sub-markets.
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.