Location: Bangor, ME | Metro: Bangor, 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 | $1,450 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,540 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,920 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,460 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,780 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,225 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,612 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,901 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,096 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,460 | $314,888 | 0.78% | D |
| 4BR | $2,780 | $371,197 | 0.75% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors targeting ZIP code 04473, located in Bangor, ME HUD Metro FMR Area, reveals that the HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1,390 for fiscal year 2024. This figure is notably lower than the market rent, which stands at $1,900 according to ZORI (Zillow Observed Rental Index). Given this disparity, voucher tenants will only cashflow marginally, if at all, without premium units that can command higher rents.
To understand the broader investment landscape, consider the median home value in the area, which is $300,414. The rent-to-price ratio, calculated by dividing the annual rent ($1,900 per month) by the median home value, yields approximately 0.76%. This low ratio suggests that rental income alone may not be sufficient to cover mortgage payments and other expenses associated with property ownership, unless the property is valued below the median or rented out at a premium rate.
The dynamics between renting and buying properties in ZIP 04473 are further complicated by the lack of data on the median Days on Market (DOM) and the percentage of price cuts. However, these factors typically influence how quickly properties can be sold or rented, impacting an investor's ability to turn over assets or adjust pricing in response to market conditions. In the absence of such data, it's crucial for investors to focus on the long-term viability of their investments, particularly when considering the role of Section 8 vouchers.
In conclusion, while the strong stability offered by Section 8 tenants can provide a reliable source of income, the current HUD FMR does not support significant cashflow at the median market rent. Investors should seek out properties that either have lower purchase prices or can be leased at premium rates to ensure profitability. The most compelling angle for Section 8 investors in ZIP 04473 remains stability, given the consistent demand for affordable housing and the reliability of government-backed rent payments.
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.