Location: Oxford County, ME | Metro: Oxford County, ME
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 | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $920 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,630 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,970 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,285 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,559 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,764 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,902 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,180 | $335,825 | 0.35% | F |
| 3BR | $1,630 | $437,899 | 0.37% | F |
| 4BR | $1,970 | $610,739 | 0.32% | F |
| 5BR | $2,285 | $733,560 | 0.31% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 04217, Bethel, ME, stands at $61,125. Given the market rate for rent is $880, it becomes evident that a significant portion of the population faces challenges in affording housing without financial assistance. This figure represents approximately 21.3% of their annual income dedicated solely to rent, which is a substantial percentage.
In contrast, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set for metro FY 2026 is $1,270. This amount is notably higher than the current market rate, indicating that the government's benchmark for affordable housing exceeds what the average household in Bethel can pay out-of-pocket. The difference between the market rate and the FMR highlights an affordability gap that could be bridged through rental assistance programs such as Section 8 vouchers.
Bethel has a relatively low percentage of renters at 16.9%, with a total population of 3,387. This suggests that the demand for rental properties is moderate, but the competition among landlords to attract tenants who can afford market rates is likely intense. For those tenants earning the median income, the cost of renting at $880 would consume a considerable portion of their earnings, leaving limited room for other expenses.
The takeaway for landlords considering voucher versus cash-pay strategies is clear: accepting Section 8 vouchers can provide a stable source of income, albeit at a lower rate than the FMR. It ensures a steady stream of tenants who might otherwise struggle to find suitable housing due to the high costs relative to their income levels. While the voucher payment standard of $1,270 is higher than the current market rate, it aligns more closely with what many households can afford, making it a viable option for maintaining occupancy rates and building long-term relationships with tenants.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.