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 | $3,400 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,510 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,190 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,990 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $6,392 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $7,159 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $7,732 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $8,119 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $3,510 | $507,391 | 0.69% | D |
| 2BR | $4,190 | $710,057 | 0.59% | F |
| 3BR | $4,990 | $1,398,667 | 0.36% | F |
| 4BR | $5,510 | $2,046,520 | 0.27% | F |
| 5BR | $6,392 | $3,317,079 | 0.19% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 02467, located in Brookline, MA, has a population of 23,001, with 32.3% of residents being renters. This indicates that while there is a significant rental market, it is not overwhelmingly dominated by renters. The median household income in this area stands at $169,104, which is notably high. Given this context, landlords can expect a relatively stable and affluent tenant pool.
The market rent for this area is $3,747 per month, which represents approximately 22% of the median household income. This figure suggests that typical rents are well within the financial means of most residents, making it feasible for them to afford housing without needing extensive assistance. However, the comparison to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $3,780 for FY 2024 indicates that rents are close to the benchmark set by the government, leaving little room for significant rent increases.
In terms of Section 8 voucher demand, the percentage of renters in ZIP 02467 is substantial but not indicative of a highly voucher-dependent market. Given the high median income, many potential tenants could afford market-rate rents without relying on vouchers. Landlords should be prepared for a mix of tenants, including those who might seek lower-cost options through Section 8, but the majority will likely be able to pay closer to the market rate.
The expected tenant profile in this area would be individuals or families with a steady income, possibly working in professional fields such as finance, healthcare, or technology, given the economic makeup of the region. They are likely to value the quality of life that Brookline offers, including good schools, safe neighborhoods, and access to amenities. While some may use Section 8 vouchers, most will have the financial capability to cover the $3,747 market rent independently.
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.