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 | $394,291 | 0.45% | F |
| 3BR | $2,350 | $496,575 | 0.47% | F |
| 4BR | $2,360 | $591,286 | 0.4% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 03278 in Sutton, New Hampshire, stands out within Merrimack County due to its unique data profile. With a population of 3,079 residents, it has a relatively low rental rate of 24.0%, indicating that the majority of the housing stock is owner-occupied. The median income in Sutton is $94,783, which is above the national average, reflecting a financially stable community. The median home value of $460,792 further underscores the affluence and property investment potential in the area.
For landlords and small-portfolio investors, understanding the Section 8 voucher economics is crucial. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,830, while the current market rent based on Census ACS data is $1,209. This significant gap between FMR and actual market rates presents an opportunity for landlords who accept vouchers. It means that the government will subsidize a portion of the rent, making it possible for tenants to afford homes that might otherwise be out of reach. In Sutton, landlords can expect higher rental incomes compared to the local market when participating in the Section 8 program.
Given the data signature of ZIP 03278, it reads as stable rather than transitional. The high median income and home values suggest a community where residents have the financial means to maintain their properties and lifestyle. Additionally, the lower rental rate indicates that there is less pressure from transient populations, which typically leads to more predictable and stable tenancies. For investors looking to enter the Sutton market, these factors point towards a solid, long-term investment opportunity with minimal risk of sudden economic shifts.
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.