Location: Windsor County, VT | Metro: Windsor County, VT
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,230 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,240 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,910 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,000 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,320 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,598 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,806 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,946 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 05037, Vermont, stands at $109,091. This figure provides a baseline for understanding the financial capacity of households in the area. The market rate for rent, according to the Census ACS, is $1,122 per month. Given the median income, a household would be able to afford the market rate rent, assuming they allocate a reasonable portion of their income towards housing.
However, when comparing the market rate to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by the government for Section 8 vouchers, which is $1,300 per month for the fiscal year 2026, it becomes evident that there is a significant discrepancy. The FMR is higher than the current market rate, suggesting that landlords who accept vouchers might receive slightly more than the average market rent.
The rental market in ZIP 05037 is relatively small, with only 11.8% of the 949 residents being renters. This indicates a limited pool of potential tenants, which could lead to increased competition among landlords for available renters. Landlords must consider both the number of renters and the types of rental properties in the area to understand how the affordability gap impacts their business.
The takeaway for landlords is that while accepting Section 8 vouchers might ensure a steady stream of rent payments, it also means dealing with government regulations and possibly a longer wait time for repairs and maintenance. On the other hand, relying on cash-paying tenants could expose landlords to greater financial risk due to the smaller tenant base and the potential for higher vacancy rates. Landlords should weigh these factors carefully when deciding between voucher and cash-pay strategies.
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.