Location: Bennington County, VT | Metro: Bennington County, VT
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,490 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,680 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,880 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,600 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,140 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,642 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,079 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,405 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,625 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors targeting ZIP code 05252 in Bennington County, VT, reveals a favorable environment for rental properties. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1,660 per month for the fiscal year 2026, which is notably higher than the average market rent reported by the Census ACS at $1,385 per month. This discrepancy means that voucher tenants will typically generate positive cash flow at the FMR rate, making it a strong investment opportunity.
To further understand the dynamics of the local housing market, consider the median home value of $332,695. Using the HUD FMR of $1,660, the rent-to-price ratio for the area is approximately 0.5%, indicating that rental income is relatively low compared to property values. However, this ratio can be misleading without considering the specific characteristics of individual units and the overall demand for rental properties in the area.
The days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price cuts are not available for this analysis, but they would be relevant metrics if one were to compare the rent-versus-buy dynamics. In the absence of these figures, we can focus on the cash flow potential and the broader stability of the housing market in ZIP 05252.
The primary strength for investors in this market is the cash flow generated by voucher tenants. Given the higher HUD FMR relative to the market rent, landlords and small-portfolio investors can expect a steady and reliable source of income, particularly when the property is well-managed and maintained. The stability of the housing market, characterized by consistent demand for affordable rentals, further enhances the attractiveness of this investment opportunity.
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.