Location: Washington County, ME | Metro: Washington 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 | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,130 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,274 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,456 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,579 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,130 | $187,072 | 0.6% | D |
| 3BR | $1,570 | $197,584 | 0.79% | D |
| 4BR | $1,750 | $234,170 | 0.75% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 04654, located in Whitneyville, Maine, stands out within Washington County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 3,340 residents, 33.0% of whom rent their homes, the area has a median income of $48,838 and a median home value of $190,854. These figures suggest a community that is moderately priced, with a significant portion of the population choosing to rent rather than own.
From a Section 8 perspective, the cost comparison between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent provides valuable insight into the potential profitability for landlords. The FMR for ZIP 04654 is set at $1,080 per month for the fiscal year 2026, while the Census ACS indicates an average market rent of $707. This means that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers can expect to receive higher rental payments compared to the local market rate, making it an attractive option for property owners seeking stable and predictable income.
The data signature for ZIP 04654 reads as "stable." The relatively low median income and median home value indicate a market where housing is affordable for most residents. Additionally, the discrepancy between the FMR and the actual market rent suggests that there is a financial incentive for landlords to participate in the Section 8 program. This stability is further reinforced by the consistent percentage of renters, which has remained steady over time, indicating a reliable demand for rental properties.
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.