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 | $2,130 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,230 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,650 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,180 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,072 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,561 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,926 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,172 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,650 | $467,663 | 0.57% | F |
| 3BR | $3,180 | $554,360 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $3,510 | $636,100 | 0.55% | F |
| 5BR | $4,072 | $698,249 | 0.58% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Holbrook, MA, ZIP code 02343, is a residential area with a total population of 11,346. The neighborhood has a relatively low percentage of renters at 16.1%, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied community. Despite this, the median income of $115,032 suggests a financially stable populace capable of supporting higher-end housing options. This stability is further reflected in the median home value of $557,921, which places Holbrook among the more expensive areas in Massachusetts.
The economic landscape for rental properties in Holbrook is starkly contrasted by the Federal Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2024, the FMR stands at $2,380, significantly above the Census ACS-reported market rent of $1,094. This disparity highlights an opportunity for Section 8 investors looking to capitalize on government subsidies while operating in a high-value area.
Given these conditions, Holbrook appears to be more suited for a hands-on value-add buyer rather than a hands-off voucher operator. The difference between the FMR and market rent presents a chance to improve property quality and increase rents closer to the subsidized rates, thereby enhancing profitability. However, the relatively low rental rate suggests that there might be limited demand for higher-priced rentals, making it essential for investors to focus on adding value through improvements and efficient management practices.
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.