Location: Dukes County, MA | Metro: Barnstable Town, MA MSA
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 | $1,660 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,670 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,180 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,690 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,090 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,584 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,014 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,335 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,552 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,690 | $1,336,081 | 0.2% | F |
| 4BR | $3,090 | $1,550,355 | 0.2% | F |
| 5BR | $3,584 | $3,545,078 | 0.1% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 02543, located within Dukes County, Massachusetts, presents a unique profile compared to other ZIP codes in the same county. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 02543 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,860. This figure is notably higher than the market rent of $1,287, suggesting that the government's rental subsidy rates are generous relative to the actual rents being charged.
The median home value in ZIP 02543 stands at $1,453,295, which is significantly above the average for Dukes County. This indicates that 02543 is a premium sub-market within its metro area, likely attracting higher-income residents who can afford expensive housing.
However, the ZIP code has a renter share of 20.4%, which is relatively low compared to typical ZIP codes in Dukes County. Despite this lower percentage of renters, the substantial gap between FMR and market rent suggests an opportunity for landlords who can leverage the higher subsidy rates to cover their costs.
In summary, ZIP 02543 is characterized by its premium status due to high home values, but it also offers potential value to landlords through favorable Section 8 subsidy levels. While not necessarily a value pocket, the combination of generous FMR and a slightly lower-than-average renter share could make it an attractive location for landlords looking to secure tenants through the Section 8 program without facing significant competition from other rental properties.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.