Location: Sagadahoc County, ME | Metro: Lewiston-Auburn, ME MSA
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 | $1,180 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,250 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,640 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,070 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,400 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,784 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,118 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,367 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,535 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,640 | $323,211 | 0.51% | F |
| 3BR | $2,070 | $379,795 | 0.55% | F |
| 4BR | $2,400 | $423,310 | 0.57% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Sabattus, ME, located in Androscoggin County, has a distinct profile among ZIP codes. With a population of 7,040 residents, only 5.4% rent their homes, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied community. The median income here stands at $62,455, while the median home value is significantly higher at $349,662. This suggests that homeownership is both affordable and preferred, likely due to the area's attractive living conditions and relatively low cost of living.
The voucher economics in Sabattus present an interesting opportunity for landlords. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the ZIP code for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,160, which is notably above the current market rent of $980 based on Census ACS data. This means that landlords accepting Section 8 vouchers can expect to receive higher rents compared to the local market rate, providing a financial incentive to participate in the program. However, the low rental rate indicates that there might be limited demand for rental properties, making it crucial for landlords to maintain competitive and attractive units to benefit fully from the voucher system.
The data signature for Sabattus reads as stable. The high median home value coupled with a median income that is still within comfortable affordability levels suggests that the housing market is well-balanced. Additionally, the slight premium offered by the FMR over the market rent provides a buffer for landlords, ensuring that they can cover costs and potentially make a profit. Despite the low percentage of renters, the economic conditions appear to support a steady and predictable environment for those managing rental properties in the area.
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.