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 | $2,170 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,240 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,680 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,190 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,520 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,083 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,573 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,939 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,186 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $2,240 | $290,722 | 0.77% | D |
| 2BR | $2,680 | $487,556 | 0.55% | F |
| 3BR | $3,190 | $678,862 | 0.47% | F |
| 4BR | $3,520 | $812,173 | 0.43% | F |
| 5BR | $4,083 | $892,462 | 0.46% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 02190, located in Weymouth, Massachusetts, within the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy HUD Metro FMR Area, serves best as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 02190 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $2510, which is $109 below the market rent of $2619. This slight gap indicates that properties in this area can be rented at rates slightly above the FMR without significantly deterring tenants. Additionally, the median home value of $639,110 suggests a stable housing market with less volatility compared to other areas.
The consistent demand for rental properties and the proximity to the FMR make this ZIP code a reliable source of steady cash flow. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can expect a predictable stream of rental income, with minimal risk of vacancy due to the reasonable market rent. The slight premium over the FMR also allows for a modest buffer against unexpected expenses or maintenance costs.
While ZIP 02190 does not offer significant appreciation potential, with a 0.2% price-cut share and an N/A-day days on market (DOM), the primary focus should remain on cash flow rather than capital appreciation. The low renter share of 31.6% and high median income of $99,657 indicate that the majority of residents are likely homeowners, reducing competition for rental properties but also limiting the pool of potential tenants. However, the strong local economy supports higher tenant retention rates and lower default risks.
In summary, ZIP 02190 is well-suited as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio. Its stable market conditions, close alignment with FMR, and strong economic indicators ensure a reliable and steady income stream for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
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.