Location: Lincoln County, ME | Metro: Lincoln 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 | $1,100 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,160 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,820 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,111 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,364 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,553 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,681 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,160 | $320,264 | 0.36% | F |
| 2BR | $1,270 | $427,469 | 0.3% | F |
| 3BR | $1,750 | $547,945 | 0.32% | F |
| 4BR | $1,820 | $777,738 | 0.23% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market in ZIP 04537, Boothbay, Maine, reflects a dynamic equilibrium between supply and demand. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,330 set for metro areas in fiscal year 2026, and a current market rent of $1,048 according to the Census American Community Survey, there's a notable gap suggesting that rents are likely to rise to meet the FMR level, indicating potential demand pressure.
The median home value in Boothbay stands at $503,785. While the percentage of price-cut share and days on market (DOM) are not available, the high median home value suggests a robust local economy and possibly limited affordable housing options, which can contribute to higher rental demand.
The 11.9% renter share in Boothbay is relatively low compared to national averages, but it still signals a segment of the population facing long-term housing pressure. This figure implies that while homeownership is prevalent, there remains a significant portion of the community that relies on rentals. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider this statistic as an indicator of steady demand, particularly if they cater to seasonal or part-time residents who may prefer renting over purchasing due to the high median home value.
In summary, Boothbay's real estate market appears to be moving towards a scenario where rental demand could increase, driven by both the anticipated rise in rental rates to match FMR and the presence of a consistent, albeit modest, renter population. The market dynamics suggest that while supply might currently meet demand, the trajectory points towards growing interest in rental properties, especially those priced below the median home value.
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.