Location: Orange County, VT | Metro: Orange County, VT
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,100 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,380 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,140 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,482 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,780 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,002 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,152 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 05040 is located in a serene, rural part of Vermont, known for its picturesque landscapes and tight-knit communities. With a population of just 589 residents, it stands out as a small, tranquil neighborhood where the majority own their homes—only 15.4% of the population are renters. The area boasts a median household income of $95,481, indicating a relatively affluent community. Median home values in the region are also high, sitting at $300,205, which reflects the desirability and quality of life in this ZIP code.
Moving into the specifics of rental economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 05040, as set by HUD for metro areas in fiscal year 2026, is $1,410. In contrast, the actual market rent, according to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey, is slightly lower at $1,346. This gap between the FMR and the market rent suggests a favorable environment for landlords who are looking to participate in the Section 8 housing program, as they can potentially receive higher rents through the voucher program compared to the local market rates.
Given these economic conditions, ZIP 05040 would suit both hands-off voucher operators and hands-on value-add buyers. For hands-off operators, the steady stream of government-backed rental income offers security and predictability. Meanwhile, hands-on investors could leverage the higher FMR to improve properties and still maintain competitive rents, thus adding value to their investments while benefiting from the financial support of the Section 8 program. The combination of a modest number of renters and a higher-than-market FMR makes this ZIP code an attractive option for those interested in Section 8 investment opportunities.
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.