Location: Windham County, VT | Metro: Windham County, VT
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,230 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,340 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,970 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,490 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,888 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,235 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,494 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,669 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 05344, located in Windham County, Vermont, presents an opportunity for diversification within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The median income in this area is $52,000, which aligns well with the financial needs of tenants eligible for Section 8 housing assistance. This ZIP code has a significant renter share of 47%, indicating a robust demand for rental properties.
The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the Windham County metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,440. While specific market and median home value data are not available, the high renter share suggests that there is a strong reliance on rental properties, including those supported by Section 8 vouchers. This makes ZIP 05344 a viable option for landlords looking to stabilize their cash flow with a government-backed program.
A key advantage of adding ZIP 05344 to a Section 8 portfolio is the potential for diversification across different geographic and economic conditions. Vermont, as a state, offers a unique blend of rural and suburban living, which can attract a variety of tenants seeking affordable housing options. The consistent demand for rental properties ensures a steady stream of income, making this ZIP code a reliable addition to any Section 8-focused investment strategy.
Furthermore, the lack of specific data on price-cut share and days on market (DOM) does not detract from the value of this ZIP code as a diversifier. Instead, the focus should be on the long-term stability and predictability of cash flow that Section 8 properties provide. With the FMR at $1,440, landlords can expect to receive a fixed rental amount that covers the cost of maintaining and operating the property, thus anchoring the overall portfolio's performance.
In conclusion, ZIP 05344 serves best as a diversifier in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. It offers a stable tenant base with a high demand for rental properties, aligning well with the financial parameters of the Section 8 program. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider this ZIP code for its ability to balance out other investments and provide a predictable income source.
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.