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: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $2,300 | $223,671 | 1.03% | B |
| 2BR | $2,750 | $522,275 | 0.53% | F |
| 3BR | $3,280 | $626,952 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $3,610 | $723,371 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential risks for a Section 8 investment in ZIP code 02188 in Weymouth, MA, include higher tenant turnover due to the disparity between the market rent of $2,315 and the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $2,610 for FY 2024. This gap suggests that tenants might find it challenging to cover the difference, leading to frequent moves. Additionally, the vacancy exposure is significant because the days on market (DOM) is listed as N/A, indicating an unreliable data point which could mean either very quick or very slow sales cycles. The deferred maintenance risk is also notable, considering the typical home value of $612,664 and a median income of $107,335. Landlords should be prepared to invest in property maintenance to ensure compliance with housing standards.
However, these risks are offset by the high renter share of 41.0%, which typically translates into strong demand for rental properties, including those that accept Section 8 vouchers. The high concentration of renters in Weymouth suggests a robust pool of potential tenants, reducing the likelihood of extended vacancies.
A final consideration is the local job market and economic stability, which can impact the ability of residents to maintain their rental status over time. Given the median income, there is a need for affordable housing options, making Section 8 properties particularly attractive.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.