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 | $1,930 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,260 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,740 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,320 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,851 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,313 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,658 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,891 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,930 | $222,615 | 0.87% | C |
| 2BR | $2,260 | $409,739 | 0.55% | F |
| 3BR | $2,740 | $527,584 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $3,320 | $697,384 | 0.48% | F |
| 5BR | $3,851 | $748,333 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Danbury, CT, with a total population of 31,228, is characterized by a significant proportion of homeowners, with only 22.7% of residents being renters. The area enjoys a high median household income of $104,640, indicating a relatively affluent community. Median home values stand at $509,901, reflecting the substantial investment required to own property in this part of Danbury.
The economic landscape for rental properties in ZIP code 06811 is defined by the Fair Market Rent (FMR), which for fiscal year 2024 is set at $2,180. This figure contrasts sharply with the actual market rent, known as the Zillow Rent Index (ZORI), which is currently $2,583. This difference suggests that landlords can potentially command higher rents than those covered by the Section 8 program, indicating a market where the demand for affordable housing is somewhat lower relative to the overall rental market.
Given these conditions, ZIP 06811 would be more suitable for a hands-on value-add buyer rather than a hands-off voucher operator. The disparity between FMR and ZORI implies that landlords could benefit from improving their properties to attract tenants willing to pay above the voucher rate. Furthermore, the high median income and home values suggest an environment where there is both the potential and the need for quality improvements in rental units to justify higher rents. For a landlord or investor looking to actively manage and enhance their portfolio, this ZIP code offers opportunities to increase property value and rental income through strategic investments and renovations.
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.