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 | $990 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,000 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,680 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,183 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,358 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,476 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,260 | $217,603 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $1,670 | $227,248 | 0.73% | D |
| 4BR | $1,680 | $234,806 | 0.72% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 03582, located in Northumberland, NH, is part of Coos County and stands out due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a total population of 1,949, only 18.5% of residents are renters, indicating a primarily owner-occupied community. The median income here is relatively modest at $46,250, yet the median home value is quite high at $211,243. This suggests that homeownership in Northumberland is less affordable compared to other areas, possibly due to limited rental options.
Moving into the specifics of Section 8 housing, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,330. However, the actual market rent, according to the Census ACS, is much lower at $998. This significant gap between FMR and market rents presents an opportunity for landlords who can accept Section 8 vouchers. Landlords can potentially receive higher rental payments through the voucher program, which could offset some of the higher maintenance costs often associated with rental properties in rural areas.
The data signature for ZIP 03582 indicates a stable environment. Despite the high median home value and modest median income, the low percentage of renters and the disparity between FMR and market rents suggest a steady demand for rental properties. For small-portfolio investors looking to enter the Northumberland rental market, accepting Section 8 vouchers can be a strategic move to ensure consistent occupancy and potentially better returns on investment.
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.