Location: Aroostook County, ME | Metro: Aroostook 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 | $990 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,000 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,760 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,830 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,123 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,378 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,568 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,696 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,760 | $206,951 | 0.85% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 04743, located in the Aroostook County, ME metro area, reveals several key points regarding its suitability for Section 8 real-estate investment.
The first question to address is whether the rent math works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,320. However, the current market rent, according to Census ACS data, stands at $918. This indicates that the rent paid through Section 8 vouchers would exceed the market rate, making it financially advantageous for landlords to participate in the program. The difference of approximately $402 per month suggests that landlords could potentially earn above-average rental income relative to the local market.
Regarding the affordability of property acquisition, the median home value in ZIP 04743 is $186,133. With no available data on days on market (DOM) or the percentage of homes requiring price cuts, it's challenging to gauge the competitiveness of the market. However, the relatively low median home value suggests that purchasing properties could be more accessible compared to other areas with higher costs. Landlords can expect to acquire homes at a lower initial investment, which could help in achieving better returns on investment over time.
Tenant demand is another critical factor. The ZIP code has a total population of 4,770, with 20.2% of residents being renters. While the renter share is not exceptionally high, it does indicate a steady pool of potential tenants who might benefit from Section 8 housing assistance. Given the discrepancy between the FMR and the market rent, these tenants are likely to find Section 8 properties attractive, ensuring a consistent occupancy rate for landlords.
In conclusion, ZIP code 04743 presents a favorable environment for Section 8 real-estate investment. The rent math works in favor of landlords due to the higher FMR compared to the market rent, providing an opportunity to earn above-market rates. Property acquisition appears affordable with the low median home value, although limited data on market conditions means caution is advised. Lastly, while the renter share is modest, it ensures a reliable tenant base. Overall, the combination of these factors suggests that this ZIP code could be a profitable investment for those willing to navigate the nuances of Section 8 programs.
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.