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 | $890 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,160 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,786 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,000 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,160 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,268 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,160 | $325,979 | 0.36% | F |
| 3BR | $1,540 | $386,483 | 0.4% | F |
| 4BR | $1,540 | $418,003 | 0.37% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 03583, encompassing Low and Burbanks, NH, presents a unique landscape for both tenants and landlords. The median household income stands at $67,188, which places significant constraints on the ability of residents to pay the market rate rent of $867. This discrepancy highlights an affordability gap that could influence rental strategies.
To put this into perspective, let's consider the cost burden on a typical household. Assuming a standard guideline that no more than 30% of income should go towards housing costs, the maximum affordable rent for a household earning the median income would be approximately $1,679 per month. However, the actual market rate of $867 is well below this figure, indicating that while the market rate is affordable, it may not fully capitalize on the potential rental value.
Further complicating matters is the presence of Section 8 vouchers. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) standard for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,200. This means that landlords accepting vouchers could receive a higher rent payment compared to the current market rate. Given the low percentage of renters—only 9.5% of the 1,013 population—the competition for rental properties is relatively minimal, but the decision between voucher and cash-pay tenants remains pivotal.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: while the market rate appears affordable for the average resident, the higher payment from Section 8 vouchers ($1,200) offers a more lucrative option. Landlords should weigh the benefits of stable, government-backed payments against the potential challenges of working with the voucher program. In a market with limited rental demand, accepting vouchers can be a strategic move to ensure consistent occupancy and income.
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.