Location: Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA | Metro: Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $2,520 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,600 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,110 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,710 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $4,090 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,744 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $5,313 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,738 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $6,025 |
The market analysis for Section 8 investors targeting ZIP code 02201 in the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy County area reveals several key points. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 stands at $2930. This figure is critical for understanding how voucher tenants will perform financially.
Unfortunately, the specific market rent data for ZIP 02201 is currently unavailable. However, given the high cost of living and rental rates typical in urban areas such as Boston, it's reasonable to infer that the market rent likely exceeds the HUD FMR. In such cases, voucher tenants typically cashflow marginally or only with premium units, meaning landlords would need to focus on properties that offer higher-end amenities or are in prime locations to ensure positive cash flow.
The median home value in ZIP 02201 is also not available, which makes deriving an exact rent-to-price ratio challenging. Nonetheless, the high cost of housing in Boston suggests that the rent-to-price ratio might be favorable for rental investments. Investors should consider the broader context of the Boston metropolitan area where home values tend to be robust, supporting the stability of rental investments.
Mentioning the Days on Market (DOM) and price-cut share is important but specific data for these metrics is also missing. Generally, in highly competitive markets like Boston, a shorter DOM and lower price-cut share indicate strong demand for rentals, further supporting the viability of Section 8 investments.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP 02201 is likely to be stability. Given the consistent demand for rental properties in urban centers, particularly those supported by Section 8 vouchers, investors can expect steady income and less volatility compared to other investment types. While cashflow and appreciation are also factors, the predictability of rental income in this area provides a solid foundation for long-term investment strategies.
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.