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 | $1,640 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,360 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,270 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,650 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,234 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,742 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,121 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,377 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,800 | $705,799 | 0.26% | F |
| 2BR | $2,360 | $1,153,416 | 0.2% | F |
| 3BR | $3,270 | $1,617,273 | 0.2% | F |
| 4BR | $3,650 | $2,765,886 | 0.13% | F |
| 5BR | $4,234 | $5,204,061 | 0.08% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 02539, located in Edgartown, Massachusetts, stands out due to its high median home value and above-average median income. With 5,278 residents, only 13.0% of whom rent, the area reflects a primarily owner-occupied community. The median income of $125,236 is significantly higher than the national average, indicating a prosperous local economy. Moreover, the median home value of $1,835,226 underscores the high-end real estate market in Edgartown, making it an exclusive residential zone.
Turning to the economics of Section 8 vouchers, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the ZIP 02539 area is set at $2,320 for the fiscal year 2026. This figure is notably higher than the current market rent of $1,796 as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should be aware that accepting Section 8 vouchers might not be as financially beneficial in this ZIP code compared to others where the FMR is closer to the actual market rent. However, the higher FMR could still provide a reasonable rental income for those willing to participate in the program.
Based on the data signature, ZIP 02539 appears to be a stable community with a strong economic foundation and a preference for homeownership over renting. The disparity between the FMR and the market rent suggests that while there is a need for affordable housing, the local rental market is not heavily reliant on government subsidies. This stability is further reinforced by the high median income and home values, which indicate a steady demand for housing without significant volatility.
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.