Location: Cheshire County, NH | Metro: Hillsborough County, NH (part) HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $1,200 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,330 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,270 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,970 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,326 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,592 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,772 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,740 | $343,944 | 0.51% | F |
| 3BR | $2,270 | $421,124 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $2,560 | $503,783 | 0.51% | F |
| 5BR | $2,970 | $572,241 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 03452, which includes Jaffrey, NH, stands at $92,330. Considering the market rate for rent is $962 according to Census ACS data, a household in this area would find it challenging to cover their housing expenses without significant financial strain. This discrepancy highlights a notable affordability gap, where the average rent exceeds the typical household's ability to pay comfortably.
When comparing the market rate of $962 to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) standard set at $1760 for zip code 03452 for fiscal year 2024, it becomes evident that the actual rental prices are significantly below the voucher payment levels. The FMR figure represents the maximum amount that a household receiving a housing voucher can be charged for rent, indicating that landlords who accept vouchers could receive a higher payment than the current market rate.
In ZIP 03452, only 18.2% of the population are renters, with a total population of 5,448. This low percentage of renters suggests that the rental market is relatively small and competitive, making it crucial for landlords to consider their tenant mix carefully. The affordability gap means that some potential tenants might struggle to pay even the lower market rates without assistance, thus increasing the attractiveness of voucher-supported rentals.
Landlords in Jaffrey, NH, should recognize that while accepting vouchers guarantees a steady, government-backed income that exceeds the current market rate, they must weigh this against the administrative complexity and potential delays associated with voucher programs. For those who prefer simplicity and immediate cash flow, sticking with market-rate tenants could be more appealing despite the lower rents. However, the strategic advantage of accepting vouchers lies in securing a reliable source of income and tapping into a segment of the market that might otherwise be financially excluded from renting.
Takeaway: Landlords in ZIP 03452 have an opportunity to benefit from the voucher system, which pays up to $1760 per month, well above the current market rate of $962. This strategy can help attract and retain tenants who might otherwise face difficulty affording housing. However, landlords should also consider the smaller size of the rental market and the increased competition when deciding whether to pursue voucher tenants or focus on cash-paying households.
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.