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 | $1,170 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,170 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,090 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,471 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,768 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,989 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,138 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,540 | $399,802 | 0.39% | F |
| 3BR | $2,090 | $464,080 | 0.45% | F |
| 4BR | $2,130 | $530,330 | 0.4% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 03262, located in Woodstock, NH within Grafton County, serves as an ideal cash-flow anchor for a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the NH metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,710. This is significantly higher than the market rent of $1,076, providing a strong positive spread that ensures steady cash flow for landlords participating in the Section 8 program.
The median home value in ZIP 03262 is $420,712, which is relatively high compared to other areas in the state. However, this does not impact the rental market dynamics directly. Landlords can leverage the guaranteed rent payments through the Housing Choice Voucher Program, which is tied to the FMR, to ensure they receive a stable and predictable income stream.
This ZIP code is not suitable as an appreciation play due to the lack of specific data on price-cut shares and days on market (DOM). Without concrete evidence of rapidly increasing property values or a highly competitive market, it's difficult to justify investing in this area purely for capital gains.
While ZIP 03262 could be considered a diversifier given its 25.0% renter share and median income of $85,667, the primary focus should remain on its role as a cash-flow anchor. The higher FMR relative to market rents means that landlords can count on receiving above-average rental income, which helps offset any potential risks associated with lower tenant income levels or higher maintenance costs.
In conclusion, ZIP 03262 is best positioned as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio. The significant spread between the FMR and market rent ensures a reliable and consistent income stream, making it a valuable asset for landlords looking to stabilize their financial returns.
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.