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 | $2,230 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,300 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,750 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,610 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,188 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,691 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,066 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,319 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $2,300 | $362,189 | 0.64% | D |
| 2BR | $2,750 | $506,566 | 0.54% | F |
| 3BR | $3,280 | $843,091 | 0.39% | F |
| 4BR | $3,610 | $1,009,755 | 0.36% | F |
| 5BR | $4,188 | $1,113,976 | 0.38% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential risks for a Section 8 landlord in ZIP code 02180 in Stoneham, MA, include significant tenant turnover due to the disparity between the market rent of $3,093 and the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $2,570 for FY 2024. This gap suggests that tenants might struggle to afford higher rents outside of the subsidized program, leading to frequent moves.
Vacancy exposure is another concern, especially with a Days on Market (DOM) of just 9 days. While this indicates a strong rental market, it also means that landlords must be prepared to quickly fill vacancies, which can be challenging when dealing with the administrative processes associated with Section 8.
Deferred maintenance is a critical issue, given the typical home value of $807,265 and a median income of $113,964. The median income is relatively low compared to the cost of living, which can lead to difficulties in maintaining properties to the required standards without significant financial strain on the landlord.
However, these risks are somewhat mitigated by the high renter share of 29.0%. A larger proportion of renters typically translates into higher demand for Section 8 vouchers, making it easier to find eligible tenants who can cover the rent through the subsidy program.
In conclusion, the overall risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord in ZIP 02180 is moderate.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.