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 | $1,230 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,360 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,350 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,360 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,738 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,067 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,312 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,478 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,780 | $428,464 | 0.42% | F |
| 3BR | $2,350 | $578,656 | 0.41% | F |
| 4BR | $2,360 | $754,607 | 0.31% | F |
| 5BR | $2,738 | $876,228 | 0.31% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
12.6% of Hopkinton, NH residents are renters, indicating a modest demand for rental properties in the area. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 03229, as set by HUD for metro FY 2026, is $1,860, which is notably higher than the reported market rent of $1,270 based on Census ACS data. This suggests that there could be an opportunity for landlords to increase their rents closer to the FMR without losing tenants. However, with a median home value of $569,516, it's clear that the housing market in Hopkinton is quite robust, and property owners might face competition from homeownership. The median income of $137,386 provides further context, showing that residents have a strong financial foundation, likely supporting higher rental rates. Unfortunately, the lack of data regarding days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut shares means we cannot assess the speed at which properties are rented out or the frequency of price adjustments needed to secure tenants. Despite these gaps, the disparity between the HUD FMR and the actual market rent indicates potential for growth in rental pricing. In conclusion, landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider adjusting their rental rates towards the $1,860 FMR, leveraging the financial stability of the local population.
Based on the available data, the verdict for Section 8 eligibility in Hopkinton, NH is positive, given the significant gap between the HUD FMR and the current market rent. Landlords can expect to receive a substantial portion of the HUD-set rent, making Section 8 a viable option for maintaining occupancy and ensuring steady cash flow.
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.