Location: Washington County, VT | Metro: Washington County, VT
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,240 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,360 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,230 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,340 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,714 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,040 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,283 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,447 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 05648, located in Calais, Vermont, stands out due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With only 483 residents, this ZIP code has a very low population density, and only 7.0% of the residents are renters. The median income is relatively high at $71,719, and the median home value is even more impressive at $407,768. These figures suggest a predominantly owner-occupied area with a strong local economy.
The voucher economics in ZIP 05648 are noteworthy. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,510, while the actual market rent, according to Census ACS data, is $1,444. This indicates that the voucher amount is slightly above the current market rate, potentially making it an attractive option for landlords who might otherwise be hesitant to participate in the Section 8 program due to lower rents.
Given the data signature of ZIP 05648, the real estate market appears to be stable. The high median home value suggests a mature housing market where most homes are owner-occupied. Additionally, the fact that the majority of households own their homes or have mortgages further supports this stability. The construction timeline of homes in the area, primarily built in the 1960s and 1970s, also points towards a long-standing community rather than a transitional one. Therefore, landlords and small-portfolio investors can expect consistent demand and returns in this ZIP code.
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.