Location: Barnstable Town, 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 | $2,700 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,720 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,560 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,320 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $6,171 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $6,912 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $7,465 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $7,838 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $3,560 | $636,061 | 0.56% | F |
| 3BR | $4,470 | $831,890 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $5,320 | $1,131,868 | 0.47% | F |
| 5BR | $6,171 | $1,624,746 | 0.38% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP 02630, which encompasses parts of Barnstable, Massachusetts, stands at $116,895. This figure is crucial when considering the economic landscape for renters and landlords alike. However, the market rate for rentals in this area is currently unavailable, making it challenging to directly assess how this compares to the median income. Despite this gap in data, we can still analyze the situation using the available information.
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8, sets a Fair Market Rent (FMR) standard for ZIP 02630 at $2480 for fiscal year 2024. This amount represents the maximum rental assistance payment that a household can receive under the program. Given the median income, households may find it easier to cover higher rents out-of-pocket, but the specific market rate remains unclear.
With only 3.8% of the population being renters and a total population of 2,371, the rental market in ZIP 02630 is relatively small. This means that landlords face less competition from other property owners compared to areas with a higher percentage of renters. The limited number of renters also suggests that there might be a smaller pool of potential tenants looking for affordable housing options.
The affordability gap between the FMR and the median income highlights a significant opportunity for landlords. While some households might prefer the security and flexibility of Section 8 vouchers, others may be willing and able to pay more than the FMR due to their higher income levels. This scenario presents landlords with a strategic choice: they can either aim to attract voucher holders with the guaranteed rent and reduced vacancy risks, or target non-voucher households who might offer higher monthly payments.
Takeaway for landlords: In ZIP 02630, landlords have the advantage of knowing the FMR is set at $2480. They should consider the local economic conditions and the preferences of potential tenants when deciding whether to accept Section 8 vouchers or to seek higher-paying, cash-paying renters. Given the median income, there is likely a segment of the population capable of paying above the FMR, which could be attractive for landlords looking to maximize their returns.
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.