Location: Providence-Fall River, RI | Metro: Providence-Fall River, RI-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 | $1,320 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,400 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,420 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,807 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,144 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,396 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,566 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,400 | $409,545 | 0.34% | F |
| 2BR | $1,740 | $451,454 | 0.39% | F |
| 3BR | $2,130 | $531,191 | 0.4% | F |
| 4BR | $2,420 | $632,437 | 0.38% | F |
| 5BR | $2,807 | $672,007 | 0.42% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The North Smithfield area, represented by ZIP code 02896, is situated in Rhode Island and offers a blend of suburban living with easy access to urban amenities. This region is characterized by its stable housing market, which makes it an attractive investment opportunity for both landlords and small-portfolio investors.
Analyzing these data points, investors can expect a solid return on investment in North Smithfield due to the combination of stable property values and growing rental income potential. The moderate renter share and high median income support a healthy market for both purchasing and renting properties. However, the actual rental rates are currently below the FMR, offering a window of opportunity for those looking to capitalize on potential future increases in rental prices.
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.