Location: Lawrence, MA | Metro: Lawrence, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $1,570 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,700 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,220 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,650 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,920 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,387 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,793 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,096 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,301 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,220 | $390,125 | 0.57% | F |
| 3BR | $2,650 | $582,210 | 0.46% | F |
| 4BR | $2,920 | $708,008 | 0.41% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 03865, located in Plaistow, NH within Rockingham County, stands out due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 7,861 residents, 21.9% of whom are renters, the area has a median household income of $108,317 and a median home value of $523,983. These figures suggest a relatively affluent community with a modest rental market presence.
Turning to the voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 03865 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,920, while the actual market rent, according to the Census American Community Survey (ACS), averages $1,664. This discrepancy indicates that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect higher rental rates compared to the local market average, providing an incentive for property owners to consider joining the program.
The data signature for ZIP 03865 reads as stable. The relatively high median income and home values suggest a robust local economy with low risk of significant fluctuations. Furthermore, the modest rental market size implies that most residents are homeowners, which generally contributes to a more stable community environment. However, the presence of a Section 8 program with a favorable FMR rate could attract more renters, potentially shifting the balance slightly towards a transitional state if the number of voucher holders increases. For now, the stability of the area remains intact, offering landlords and small-portfolio investors a secure investment opportunity.
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.