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 | $1,100 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,110 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,970 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,980 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,297 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,573 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,779 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,918 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,450 | $471,380 | 0.31% | F |
| 3BR | $1,970 | $666,043 | 0.3% | F |
| 4BR | $1,980 | $792,008 | 0.25% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 03580, located in Easton, NH, within Grafton County, NH metro, serves as an ideal cash-flow anchor for a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The key rationale lies in the favorable spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,520 for the fiscal year 2026 and the current market rent of $1,297. This means that properties in this area can be rented out through the Section 8 program at a rate higher than the market average, thereby ensuring a steady and reliable cash flow.
The median home value in ZIP 03580 stands at $630,214, which is significantly higher than the typical market rent. This indicates that the area is primarily residential, with a strong focus on owner-occupied homes. However, for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to secure long-term, stable rental income, the Section 8 program offers a compelling opportunity. By participating in the program, landlords can ensure a consistent stream of rental payments without the risk of market fluctuations affecting their income.
While there isn't enough data to classify ZIP 03580 as an appreciation play, with no percentage given for price-cut share and no days on market (DOM) information available, it still holds promise as a diversifier. The area has a 13.0% renter share, which is relatively low but sufficient to support a niche rental market. Additionally, the median income of $91,250 suggests a population that can afford higher rents, making it suitable for landlords who want to balance their portfolios with properties in areas where tenants are likely to meet their obligations.
In summary, ZIP 03580 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy due to the positive spread between FMR and market rent. This ensures a steady income stream, which is crucial for financial stability and growth in rental investments. For investors looking to mitigate risks associated with market volatility, this ZIP code provides a solid foundation for building a dependable and profitable rental portfolio.
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.