Location: Grafton County, NH | Metro: Grafton 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 | $1,320 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,350 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,760 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,390 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,460 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,854 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,196 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,452 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,625 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,350 | $195,088 | 0.69% | D |
| 2BR | $1,760 | $347,545 | 0.51% | F |
| 3BR | $2,390 | $462,509 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $2,460 | $565,097 | 0.44% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of the Section 8 program in ZIP code 03223, specifically focusing on Campton, NH, reveals a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. The FMR for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,930. However, the market rent data for the region is currently unavailable, which suggests that landlords might be renting properties above the FMR rate.
In the absence of specific market rent figures, we can infer that if the market rent exceeds the FMR, landlords who accept Section 8 tenants could face a shortfall in their rental income. This is because the government pays a portion of the rent based on the FMR, which is lower than what the market dictates. For instance, if the average market rent in Campton, NH, were to be hypothetically $2,200, landlords would only receive $1,930 from the government, resulting in a loss of $270 per month or approximately 12.3% of the market rent. This makes accepting Section 8 tenants a yield play rather than a profit maximization strategy.
The context of Campton, NH, further illuminates the situation. With only 5.6% of residents being renters, the demand for rental properties is relatively low. Additionally, the median home value stands at $410,248, indicating a higher-end residential market. The median household income of $118,534 also suggests that many homeowners in the area might afford to live without relying on rental assistance programs. These factors combined imply that landlords who rely solely on market rents may find themselves in a better financial position compared to those who depend on Section 8 vouchers.
Landlords must carefully consider these dynamics when deciding whether to participate in the Section 8 program. Accepting voucher tenants below open-market rates could be seen as a social responsibility but comes with the risk of reduced profitability. Conversely, operating in a high-end market where rents are likely above the FMR provides a clearer path to maximizing returns.
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.