Location: Cheshire County, NH | Metro: Cheshire 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 | $1,250 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,380 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,800 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,310 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,530 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,935 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,287 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,550 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,728 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,800 | $382,282 | 0.47% | F |
| 3BR | $2,310 | $485,351 | 0.48% | F |
| 4BR | $2,530 | $529,222 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 thesis in ZIP code 03464, which covers Stoddard, NH, hinges on the significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by HUD and the actual market rent. The FMR for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is $1,960, while the current market rent for all property types in 03464 is $761. This represents a gap of $1,200, or approximately 62%, between the FMR and the market rent.
Given that the FMR exceeds the market rent, this makes Stoddard, NH a prime location for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to maximize yields. The lower market rent means that properties can be rented out at below FMR rates, providing a substantial margin when subsidized by Section 8 vouchers. This scenario benefits landlords who can achieve higher cash flows relative to the local market conditions.
Stoddard, NH has a relatively low rental population, with only 5.3% of residents being renters. The median home value stands at $406,994, and the median household income is $93,625. These factors contribute to a cooler rental market, where the demand for rental units is lower compared to other regions. However, the opportunity to leverage Section 8 vouchers allows landlords to secure steady, government-backed rental income even in a less active rental environment.
In conclusion, the disparity between the FMR and the market rent in Stoddard, NH presents a unique investment opportunity. Landlords can benefit from the higher subsidy rates offered through the Section 8 program, thereby enhancing their returns on investment despite the modest rental demand in the area.
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.