Location: Merrimack County, NH | Metro: Merrimack County, NH
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 | $1,410 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,550 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,660 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,670 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,097 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,469 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,747 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,934 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,550 | $325,782 | 0.48% | F |
| 2BR | $2,030 | $404,389 | 0.5% | F |
| 3BR | $2,660 | $512,861 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $2,670 | $563,187 | 0.47% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market in Bradford, NH, represented by ZIP code 03221, is characterized by a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. The FMR stands at $2,130 for fiscal year 2026, while the Census ACS indicates a market rent of $1,594. This discrepancy suggests that the rental market is currently underpriced relative to what the federal government deems fair, which could indicate either a temporary imbalance or a sustained trend where local rents are lower due to various economic factors.
With a median home value of $456,529, Bradford offers homeownership opportunities at a price point that is likely attractive to first-time buyers and those seeking a more affordable suburban environment. However, the dynamics of the rental market provide insights into broader housing pressures. The renter share of the population is 13.4%, a figure that reflects a relatively low proportion of residents who are renters compared to homeowners. Despite this, the presence of any renters in a market signifies ongoing demand for affordable housing options, even if the majority of residents choose to own their homes.
The lack of specific data on price-cut share and days on market (DOM) makes it challenging to definitively state whether supply outpaces demand or vice versa. However, the difference between FMR and market rent points towards a situation where demand might be slightly lagging behind supply, as landlords are not able to charge the higher rents suggested by the FMR. This scenario can be influenced by several factors, including the availability of owner-occupied homes, the attractiveness of the area to potential buyers, and the overall economic conditions that affect both buying and renting decisions.
In summary, Bradford's rental market appears to be stable but underpriced relative to FMR, suggesting a balance between supply and demand that leans slightly toward supply. The low renter share indicates a preference for homeownership, yet the persistent rental activity implies that there is still a segment of the population experiencing housing pressure, making the rental market an important component of the local economy.
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.