Location: Portsmouth-Rochester, NH | Metro: Portsmouth-Rochester, 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 | $1,450 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,510 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,430 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,650 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,074 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,443 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,718 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,904 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,980 | $317,166 | 0.62% | D |
| 3BR | $2,430 | $448,076 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $2,650 | $469,231 | 0.56% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 03868 in Rochester, NH, hosts a population of 6,133 individuals, with 21.9% being renters. The median household income stands at $81,530, which places it above the national average. The market rent for the area is $1,203 per month, indicating that rental housing is a significant component of the local housing market.
Despite the presence of a notable rental population, the percentage of renters in ZIP 03868 is relatively modest compared to other areas with higher concentrations of rental housing. This suggests that while there is a demand for rental properties, it is not overwhelming. In terms of Section 8 voucher utilization, the demand is likely moderate rather than deep due to the higher median income level in the area.
To understand the financial impact on potential tenants, we can calculate the percentage of income that typical rent consumes. At $1,203 per month, the rent accounts for approximately 17.2% of the median household income ($81,530 annually). This is a reasonable figure, suggesting that most residents can afford the market rent without significant financial strain.
However, comparing the market rent to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,830 (for FY 2024), it's evident that the actual rents are lower than the FMR. This discrepancy means that tenants with Section 8 vouchers could potentially have a surplus to cover additional costs or amenities, making them attractive to landlords who might offer slightly higher rents than the market average but still within the voucher limit.
A landlord in ZIP 03868 should expect a tenant profile that includes a mix of individuals and families who benefit from the Section 8 program. These tenants will typically have a monthly income that allows them to contribute a portion of their earnings towards rent, alongside their voucher assistance. Given the income levels and the relatively low market rent compared to the FMR, landlords can anticipate tenants who are financially stable and capable of meeting their obligations under a lease agreement.
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.