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 | $1,010 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,020 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,352 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,540 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,667 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,020 | $234,895 | 0.43% | F |
| 2BR | $1,330 | $332,717 | 0.4% | F |
| 3BR | $1,810 | $387,590 | 0.47% | F |
| 4BR | $1,810 | $480,105 | 0.38% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Rumney, NH, located in ZIP code 03266 within Grafton County, serves as an ideal cash-flow anchor for a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The rationale lies in the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the $1,400 metro area in fiscal year 2026 and the current market rent of $1,112. This difference ensures a steady and reliable cash flow, as properties leased through Section 8 will be guaranteed rents at the higher FMR rate. Furthermore, the median home value in Rumney stands at $348,840, indicating a stable housing market that supports long-term tenancy.
The high FMR compared to the local market rent means that landlords can expect to receive higher monthly payments from tenants participating in the Section 8 program, thus mitigating the risks associated with potential market fluctuations. This ZIP code does not present opportunities for significant appreciation or quick sales, as evidenced by the lack of data on price-cut shares and days on the market (DOM). Instead, the focus should be on the security of cash flow and the stability of rental income.
Rumney's characteristics also make it suitable for diversifying a Section 8 portfolio. With a 17.0% renter share, there is a substantial portion of the population that relies on rental housing, creating a consistent demand for apartments and houses. Additionally, the median income of $76,071 suggests that while some residents may qualify for assistance programs, others could potentially afford market-rate rents, offering landlords flexibility in their tenant selection and portfolio management.
In summary, ZIP 03266 in Rumney, NH, is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The guaranteed higher rents through the Section 8 program, combined with a stable housing market, provide landlords with a secure and predictable source of income. While appreciation plays may offer higher returns in other areas, the reliability of cash flow in Rumney makes it a valuable addition to any diversified investment portfolio focused on Section 8 properties.
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.