Location: Coos County, NH | Metro: Coos 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 | $920 |
| 1 Bedroom | $930 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,170 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,027 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,189 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,298 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,170 | $161,409 | 0.72% | D |
| 3BR | $1,550 | $194,503 | 0.8% | D |
| 4BR | $1,560 | $207,114 | 0.75% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 03570, encompassing Berlin, NH, presents a dynamic housing market characterized by a balance between rental and ownership sectors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1,250, reflective of the metro region's FY 2026 standards. This figure stands notably above the actual market rent, which is recorded at $815 according to the latest Census ACS data. This discrepancy suggests that the rental market may be experiencing some pressure, but it is not indicative of a severe imbalance.
The low price-cut share of 0.1% indicates that property owners are generally not feeling compelled to reduce their asking prices, a sign that demand is steady and potentially keeping pace with supply. However, the absence of data on days on market (DOM) makes it challenging to draw definitive conclusions about the speed at which homes are being sold. Despite this, the median home value of $178,867 provides a clear benchmark for the local real estate economy, suggesting that home ownership is accessible to a broad range of potential buyers.
A significant insight into the market comes from the 37.4% renter share. This statistic implies a substantial portion of the population prefers or requires renting over buying, which can exert long-term upward pressure on rental rates. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should view this as an indicator of sustained interest in rental properties, potentially offering a stable investment opportunity.
In summary, the Berlin, NH market appears to be in a state of flux, with rental rates below the FMR hinting at a competitive environment, while the low price-cut share and median home values suggest a healthy homeownership sector. The high renter share points to a continued need for rental properties, shaping the overall housing dynamics.
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.