Location: Carroll County, NH | Metro: Carroll 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 | $1,080 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,210 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,120 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,970 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,326 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,592 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,772 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,210 | $204,746 | 0.59% | F |
| 2BR | $1,540 | $342,025 | 0.45% | F |
| 3BR | $2,120 | $492,254 | 0.43% | F |
| 4BR | $2,560 | $610,690 | 0.42% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 03818 in Albany, NH, is a modest-sized market with a population of 3,805 individuals. Renters make up a significant portion of the local housing market at 33.9%, indicating a substantial tenant pool that could be interested in Section 8 vouchers. However, this percentage also suggests that the area leans slightly towards homeownership rather than being dominated by renters.
The median household income in this region stands at $77,134, which provides context for the affordability of housing. The typical market rent of $974 represents approximately 12.6% of the median income, making it relatively affordable compared to other areas. This figure is notably lower than the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,430, which is set for the metro area for FY 2026. The difference between the actual market rent and the FMR indicates that there is potential for deeper voucher utilization, as the gap allows for more flexibility in how much of a tenant's income can go towards rent while still staying within program limits.
A landlord in ZIP 03818 should anticipate tenants who are likely to be seeking assistance through Section 8 vouchers due to the disparity between the local market rent and the FMR. These tenants will generally have a household income below the median, necessitating financial aid to afford housing. Given the 12.6% of income required for rent, these tenants will be accustomed to managing their finances carefully and will seek properties where the rent aligns closely with their budgetary constraints.
To summarize, ZIP 03818 presents a moderate opportunity for landlords looking to attract Section 8 tenants. With nearly one-third of residents renting and a market rent significantly below the FMR, there is a reasonable demand for rental properties that accept vouchers. Landlords should prepare for tenants who are financially disciplined and rely on government assistance to meet their housing needs.
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.