Location: Brockton, MA | Metro: Brockton, MA 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 | $1,690 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,850 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,420 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,030 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,180 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,689 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,132 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,463 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,686 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,850 | $245,766 | 0.75% | D |
| 2BR | $2,420 | $366,198 | 0.66% | D |
| 3BR | $3,030 | $526,309 | 0.58% | F |
| 4BR | $3,180 | $595,928 | 0.53% | F |
| 5BR | $3,689 | $670,807 | 0.55% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Brockton, zip code 02301, operates as a dense, urban-suburban hub often called the "City of Champions" due to its storied boxing history. The area features a mix of historic single-family homes and triple-deckers, offering a walkable environment anchored by major institutions like Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital, a key regional employer and stabilizing economic force. The neighborhood retains a strong blue-collar character with convenient commuter rail access to Boston, making it a practical location for renters seeking affordability outside the metro core.
From a strictly numerical standpoint, the Brockton market shows distinct pressure points. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a 2-bedroom unit is listed at $1,780, while current market rents (Zillow ZORI) reach $2,267, leaving a gap of $487. Median home values sit at $513,430, with the specific median 2-bedroom sale price at $364,848. Properties move moderately fast, with a median of 41 days on market. Because the voucher payment lags behind market rates by nearly $500, standard Section 8 units here generally do not cash-flow as aggressively as market-rate rentals without substantial rent concessions or below-market acquisition costs.
Despite the rent gap, tenant demand remains robust given the demographic profile. With 49.8% of households renting and a median household income of $74,214, there is a sizable population that may require housing assistance or affordable options. The presence of MBTA commuter rail stations enhances appeal for workers commuting to Boston or Providence. Local schools and public parks provide additional stability, reinforcing a steady pool of long-term renters who value location and connectivity over luxury amenities.
The Section 8 verdict for 02301 leans toward stability and appreciation rather than immediate maximized cash flow. The $487 negative gap between FMR and market rent suggests investors should not rely solely on HUD payments to cover top-of-market mortgages. However, the lower median entry price for 2-bedroom homes ($364,848) compared to the overall area median value creates an opportunity for equity growth. Investors should target properties below this median to ensure positive debt service while utilizing the voucher program to minimize vacancy risk in this high-renter-share city.
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.