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 | $1,720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,090 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,500 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,020 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,600 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,176 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,677 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,051 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,304 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $2,090 | $405,810 | 0.52% | F |
| 2BR | $2,500 | $433,292 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $3,020 | $577,403 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $3,600 | $787,857 | 0.46% | F |
| 5BR | $4,176 | $995,014 | 0.42% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
New Fairfield, CT, located in the ZIP code 06812 within the Bridgeport-Stamford-Danbury, CT MSA, can serve as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 06812 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $2800, which is significantly higher than the average market rent of $1896. This creates a substantial spread of $904 per unit, allowing landlords to benefit from a guaranteed rental income that exceeds the local market rates.
The median home value in New Fairfield stands at $573,135, indicating a relatively affluent area where housing costs are high. Despite this, the ZIP code maintains an 8.3% renter share, meaning there are still enough renters who might qualify for Section 8 assistance due to the high cost of living. Additionally, the median income of $137,647 further supports the idea that this area has a strong economic foundation, reducing the risk of tenant default on rent payments.
The low 0.1% price-cut share and 23-day Days on Market (DOM) suggest that the rental market in New Fairfield is robust and competitive. Landlords participating in the Section 8 program can leverage these conditions to ensure steady cash flow, as they will be receiving the higher FMR rate rather than having to compete with lower market rents. This makes ZIP 06812 particularly attractive for small-portfolio investors looking to stabilize their income streams with properties that have a built-in buffer against market fluctuations.
While New Fairfield offers some potential for appreciation, given its low price-cut share and competitive market, the primary strength lies in its ability to provide consistent, above-market rental income. This makes it a reliable component of a Section 8 portfolio strategy, ensuring that landlords can count on a positive cash flow from their investments.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.