Location: Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA | Metro: Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH 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 | $2,130 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,230 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,650 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,180 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,072 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,561 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,926 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,172 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,650 | $465,402 | 0.57% | F |
| 3BR | $3,180 | $571,014 | 0.56% | F |
| 4BR | $3,510 | $797,915 | 0.44% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
2540 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 02762 in Plainville, MA, for fiscal year 2024. This figure represents the maximum amount that landlords can charge for a Section 8 voucher in the area. 2072 is the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), indicating the average market rent for properties in this ZIP code. The difference between the FMR and ZORI suggests a gap where landlords can still achieve profitability while participating in the Section 8 program. 605710 is the median home value in ZIP 02762, which provides context for the overall housing market's strength. With 29.6% of residents being renters, there is a significant demand for rental properties in the area, making it an attractive market for landlords and small-portfolio investors. 104106 is the median income for households in ZIP 02762, a figure that underscores the financial capability of the local population to afford both market rents and Section 8 rents.
The lack of data on days on market (DOM) and price-cut share indicates that the market in Plainville, MA, is stable and that homes are likely selling at or near their asking prices without extended periods of listing. This stability is beneficial for investors looking to enter or expand in the Plainville market. Given the strong median home value and the solid demand for rentals, combined with the reasonable FMR and ZORI figures, investing in rental properties in Plainville, MA, under the Section 8 program is viable. Landlords should expect a steady stream of tenants who can reliably pay rent through the voucher program, ensuring consistent cash flow and property occupancy.
Section 8 verdict: ZIP 02762 presents a favorable environment for Section 8 investments due to its stable market conditions and the alignment of FMR with local rental prices.
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.