Location: Brockton, MA | Metro: Brockton, MA 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 | $1,600 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,760 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,300 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,880 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,020 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,503 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,923 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,237 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,449 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,760 | $592,598 | 0.3% | F |
| 2BR | $2,300 | $626,600 | 0.37% | F |
| 3BR | $2,880 | $754,943 | 0.38% | F |
| 4BR | $3,020 | $936,419 | 0.32% | F |
| 5BR | $3,503 | $1,391,451 | 0.25% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 02739, encompassing Mattapoisett and part of the Brockton, MA HUD Metro FMR Area, presents a unique opportunity for inclusion in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This area serves best as a cash-flow anchor. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2024 is set at $2120, significantly higher than the market rent of $1597. This $523 spread between FMR and market rent ensures that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can achieve stable and above-average rental income relative to the local market conditions.
The median home value in ZIP 02739 is $750,047, indicating a high-end residential market. However, the median household income of $130,241 suggests that while residents have substantial purchasing power, they might still prefer renting due to the high cost of homeownership. This dynamic supports the viability of a cash-flow anchor strategy, where the primary goal is to secure consistent rental revenue without the volatility associated with rapidly changing property values or market rents.
The 0.2% price-cut share and N/A-day Days on Market (DOM) figures indicate that properties in this area rarely need to be discounted or are sold quickly once listed. These factors contribute to the stability of the market but do not offer significant potential for short-term appreciation, making it less suitable as an appreciation play.
With a renter share of 14.7%, ZIP 02739 offers a moderate diversification benefit. While the percentage of renters is not exceptionally high, the combination of a strong FMR and relatively low market rent creates a niche where Section 8 tenants can be a reliable source of income. The high median income further stabilizes this segment, ensuring that there is a steady demand for rental units among those who qualify for the Section 8 program.
In summary, ZIP 02739 is best positioned as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. Its favorable FMR-to-market-rent ratio provides a buffer against market fluctuations and ensures landlords receive a stable income. Additionally, the high median income supports a robust rental market, making it an attractive choice for securing long-term, dependable 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.