Location: Somerset County, ME | Metro: Somerset County, ME
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $950 |
| 1 Bedroom | $980 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,150 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,640 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,902 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,300 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,415 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 04912 in Athens, ME, stands out due to its unique data profile. With only 858 residents, the area has a rental rate of 6.7%, which is notably lower than the national average. The median income here is $51,250, indicating a modest economic base. Notably, the median home value is listed as N/A, suggesting limited available data on homeownership values in this ZIP.
Moving into the specifics of Section 8 housing, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,160. This figure is significantly higher than the current market rent of $538, as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). This disparity presents a clear opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors to leverage the federal subsidy program for higher rents, while still providing affordable housing options to eligible tenants.
Given the limited number of renters and the modest median income, the ZIP 04912 can be classified as relatively stable. There is little indication of rapid demographic shifts that might affect the local housing market. However, the substantial gap between FMR and actual market rents suggests that the area could become more transitional if more Section 8 vouchers start flowing into the region, potentially altering the local rental landscape. For now, the data points towards a stable environment with room for growth through participation in the Section 8 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.