Location: Bridgeport-Stamford-Danbury, CT | Metro: Bridgeport-Stamford-Danbury, CT MSA
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,560 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,890 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,260 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,740 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,240 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,758 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,209 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,546 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,773 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,890 | $227,240 | 0.83% | C |
| 2BR | $2,260 | $367,728 | 0.61% | D |
| 3BR | $2,740 | $435,305 | 0.63% | D |
| 4BR | $3,240 | $543,117 | 0.6% | F |
| 5BR | $3,758 | $650,079 | 0.58% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 06615, located in Stratford, CT, stands out in Fairfield County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 17,136, it has a notable rental rate of 31.9%, indicating a significant portion of residents who are potential candidates for housing assistance programs such as Section 8. The median income in this area is $81,534, which reflects a middle-class community. Additionally, the median home value is $415,545, suggesting that homeownership is relatively expensive compared to other parts of Connecticut.
In terms of voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 06615 is set at $1,960 for fiscal year 2024. This figure is slightly below the market rent, measured by the Zillow Rent Index (ZORI), which stands at $2,024. This means that landlords accepting Section 8 vouchers can expect a rent subsidy close to but slightly under the actual market rates. It's important for landlords to understand that while the subsidy might cover most of the rent, there could be a small gap between the voucher amount and the market rent, which they would need to consider.
The data signature for ZIP 06615 reads as stable. The median income is consistent with the state average, and the rental rate indicates a steady demand for affordable housing options. The proximity of the FMR to the ZORI suggests that the housing market is well-regulated, with little fluctuation likely to occur in the near future. For small-portfolio investors and landlords, this stability provides a predictable environment for managing properties and tenants, making Stratford an attractive location for long-term investments in rental properties.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.