Location: Dukes County, MA | Metro: Dukes County, MA
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 | $1,800 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,980 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,590 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,590 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $4,010 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,652 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $5,210 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,627 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,908 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,590 | $1,441,560 | 0.18% | F |
| 3BR | $3,590 | $2,004,940 | 0.18% | F |
| 4BR | $4,010 | $2,618,187 | 0.15% | F |
| 5BR | $4,652 | $4,115,349 | 0.11% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP 02535, Chilmark, MA, on the axes of yield and stability reveals a unique market situation. On the yield axis, the area shows potential for above-average returns. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $2,330, while the local market rent stands at $1,738. Given the median home value of $2,146,777, there's a significant disparity that could be leveraged for rental income, especially if properties are priced closer to the FMR rather than the local market rent.
However, when it comes to stability, the picture is less straightforward. Only 13.6% of the population are renters, indicating a relatively low demand for rental properties. This statistic suggests that the market might struggle with consistent occupancy rates, which is critical for steady cash flow. Additionally, the median household income of $153,966 is quite high, but without data on the average daily days on market (DOM), it's challenging to assess how quickly properties can be rented out once they become vacant. This lack of information about rental turnover rates introduces an element of uncertainty into the stability assessment.
In summary, Chilmark, MA, presents itself as a market that offers high-yield opportunities due to the favorable FMR compared to local rents and high median home values. However, the low percentage of renters and limited data on rental turnover indicate a lower level of stability. This makes it a market that leans towards being a high-yield/low-stability environment, suitable for investors willing to accept higher risks for potentially higher rewards. It is not a steady-cashflow zone given the instability factors present.
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.