Location: York County, ME | Metro: York-Kittery-South Berwick, ME 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 | $1,590 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,740 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,280 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,720 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,330 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,863 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,327 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,673 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,907 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,740 | $229,662 | 0.76% | D |
| 2BR | $2,280 | $417,570 | 0.55% | F |
| 3BR | $2,720 | $551,353 | 0.49% | F |
| 4BR | $3,330 | $601,326 | 0.55% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 03908, located in South Berwick, ME, is part of York County and stands out due to its relatively low population density and unique demographic characteristics. With a total of 7,431 residents, it has a rental rate of 22.0%, indicating that the majority of the population owns their homes. The median income here is $98,289, which is above the national average, and the median home value is $516,890, reflecting a higher-end housing market.
In terms of voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 03908 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,480. This figure is notably lower than the market rent of $1,726, as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). Landlords and small-portfolio investors should be aware that the difference between the FMR and the market rent could impact the attractiveness of the area for tenants seeking Section 8 assistance. However, the high median income suggests that there is a strong local economy capable of supporting higher rents, potentially mitigating some of the challenges associated with the lower FMR.
The data signature for ZIP 03908 reads as stable. The high median income and home values indicate a financially secure community, while the modest rental rate suggests that the housing market is primarily driven by homeownership. These factors combined point towards a steady economic environment where property values and income levels are unlikely to fluctuate significantly in the near future.
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.