Location: Bennington County, VT | Metro: Bennington County, VT
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,200 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,360 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,540 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,946 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,300 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,564 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,742 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 05201, with a population of 14,998, is a significant rental market area, given that 39.1% of residents are renters. This indicates a substantial pool of potential Section 8 tenants. The median household income in this ZIP is $59,798, which provides insight into the affordability of housing. The typical market rent of $1,406 represents approximately 23.5% of the median household income when calculated monthly. This suggests that a considerable portion of income goes towards housing costs, making rental assistance programs like Section 8 highly desirable.
Comparing the market rent to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,310 for fiscal year 2026 in the metro area, it's evident that the market rent in ZIP 05201 is slightly above the FMR. Landlords should be aware that while rents may be higher than the FMR, they must ensure compliance with Section 8 guidelines to avoid losing potential tenants who rely on vouchers.
In this ZIP code, landlords can expect a tenant profile characterized by individuals and families who benefit from the Section 8 program due to the high cost of living relative to income. Tenants will likely have a need for affordable housing options and may include low-income workers, students, and families seeking stability in their living situation. Given the significant percentage of renters and the alignment of market rents with the FMR, there is a strong likelihood of deep voucher demand in the area, making it a prime location for landlords willing to participate in the Section 8 program.
To conclude, ZIP 05201 presents a robust opportunity for landlords interested in the Section 8 tenant pool. With nearly 40% of residents being renters and a market rent that consumes a notable share of the median income, there is a clear demand for subsidized housing. Landlords should prepare for a diverse tenant base that values affordable housing solutions and may require assistance in meeting their monthly rent obligations.
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.