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 | $1,170 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,170 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,080 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,110 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,448 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,742 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,961 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,109 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,530 | $338,854 | 0.45% | F |
| 3BR | $2,080 | $405,308 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 program's impact on rental properties in ZIP code 03779, specifically Piermont, NH, is significant given the disparity between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2026, the FMR is set at $1,700, while the Census ACS data indicates that the average market rent is $1,199. This means there is a gap of $501 between the two figures, representing an increase of approximately 42% over the market rent.
In this scenario where the FMR exceeds the market rent, landlords can leverage the Section 8 program to achieve higher yields on their investment properties. The FMR of $1,700 provides a guaranteed income floor that is significantly above the local market rate, making it attractive for those looking to maximize returns. Given that only 25.0% of the population are renters, the demand for affordable housing is lower, which can be balanced by the stability offered through the Section 8 program. Additionally, the median home value in Piermont, NH, stands at $351,150, indicating that the area is primarily residential with homeownership being the norm. However, the median income of $80,000 suggests that many residents might find it challenging to afford higher rents, thereby creating a niche for Section 8 vouchers.
The higher FMR compared to the market rent also means that landlords can avoid the costs associated with renting below market rates. In areas where the FMR is less than the market rent, landlords might face challenges in covering expenses due to the lower reimbursement rates. However, in Piermont, NH, the Section 8 program ensures that landlords receive a rent amount that is well above what they would typically charge, thus mitigating financial risks and providing a reliable source of income. This makes the area particularly favorable for voucher tenants and landlords alike, as both benefit from the stability and predictability of the higher FMR rates.
To summarize, the gap between the FMR and market rent in ZIP 03779 presents a compelling opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors to secure higher yields through the Section 8 program. With a 42% premium over the market rent, the program guarantees a stable and profitable rental income, especially in a community where a significant portion of the population may struggle to pay market rates. This analysis is grounded in the local context of Piermont, NH, highlighting the benefits of participating in the Section 8 program in this particular ZIP code.
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.