Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 04655 - 2027

Location: Washington County, ME | Metro: Washington County, ME

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size	Monthly FMR
Studio	$1,040
1 Bedroom	$1,070
2 Bedrooms	$1,380
3 Bedrooms	$1,860
4 Bedrooms	$2,110
5 Bedrooms	$2,448
6 Bedrooms	$2,742
7 Bedrooms	$2,961
8 Bedrooms	$3,109

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Population

1,016

Median Household Income

$60,000

Housing Units

706

Renter Percentage

17.0%

Occupancy Rate

64.3%

Renter Occupied

The ZIP code 04655, located within the Washington County, ME metro area, presents a unique profile when compared against other typical ZIP codes in the county. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,480 for fiscal year 2026, it stands out as slightly above the average FMR for the broader metro area. This suggests that rental properties in 04655 command a higher subsidy rate under the Section 8 program.

However, the market rent in 04655 is lower at $1,053, indicating that while the government is willing to pay more for housing subsidies, the actual rents charged by landlords are less. This discrepancy can be advantageous for landlords participating in the Section 8 program, as they receive a higher reimbursement rate than what they might typically charge, potentially leading to increased profitability.

The median home value of $237,943 in 04655 is also noteworthy. This figure is likely reflective of the overall property values in the area, which could influence investment decisions. If the home values in 04655 are lower than the metro average, it could signal a value pocket where investment opportunities abound at relatively lower costs.

A significant indicator of the ZIP's potential appeal to small-portfolio investors is its 17.0% renter share. This percentage is indicative of a community where a notable portion of residents are renters. When combined with the below-average market rent and the higher FMR, it points towards an environment where Section 8 vouchers are commonly used, suggesting a stable tenant base for landlords.

To determine if 04655 is a value pocket, a mid-tier neighborhood, or a premium sub-market, consider the following:

Value Pocket: If the home values are significantly below the metro average, and the FMR is notably higher, 04655 could be considered a value pocket, offering good returns on investment for those who can navigate the complexities of the Section 8 program.
Mid-Tier Neighborhood: If the home values and market rents are closer to the metro averages, then 04655 would be classified as a mid-tier neighborhood, balancing between affordability and subsidy rates.
Premium Sub-Market: Given the higher FMR but lower market rent, it's unlikely that 04655 qualifies as a premium sub-market based solely on these figures.

The divergence between the FMR and market rent, coupled with a moderate renter share, suggests that 04655 is a sweet spot for Section 8 participation. Landlords can leverage the higher subsidy rates while maintaining competitive rental prices, attracting tenants who benefit from the voucher program.

Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.