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 | $2,170 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,640 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,150 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,810 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $4,520 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $5,243 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $5,872 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $6,342 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $6,659 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $2,640 | $473,642 | 0.56% | F |
| 2BR | $3,150 | $681,331 | 0.46% | F |
| 3BR | $3,810 | $927,760 | 0.41% | F |
| 4BR | $4,520 | $1,390,882 | 0.32% | F |
| 5BR | $5,243 | $2,005,490 | 0.26% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
In ZIP code 06824, located in Fairfield, Connecticut, the real estate market presents a nuanced picture that signals significant pricing power for landlords and small-portfolio investors over the next 12 to 24 months. The median home value stands at a robust $1,103,452, indicating a high-end market with strong demand. Despite this, only a minuscule 0.1% of listings have been reduced, suggesting that sellers and landlords are maintaining their prices, which is a sign of confidence in the local economy and housing market.
The 7-day median Days on Market (DOM) figure further reinforces this narrative. A low DOM indicates that homes are selling quickly, which is a positive indicator for both current and future property values. This rapid turnover suggests that the supply of homes is being met by a steady or growing demand, potentially leading to sustained or even increased property values in the coming years.
On the rental side, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 06824 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $2,950. However, the actual market rents, as measured by the Zillow Observed Rental Index (ZORI), stand significantly higher at $3,800. This discrepancy highlights the opportunity for landlords to command premium rents, given the strong rental market dynamics. The gap between FMR and ZORI suggests that there is room for landlords to adjust their rental rates upwards without losing tenants, as the market appears to support higher rents.
For long-term investors, the setup implied by the data points towards a realistic appreciation thesis. The combination of a high median home value, minimal price reductions, quick sales, and a rental market that outpaces government estimates suggests a stable to slightly bullish outlook. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can expect to maintain or possibly increase their rental incomes, while also benefiting from potential capital appreciation as the local real estate market continues to strengthen.
The market conditions in ZIP 06824 indicate that it is a desirable area with strong economic fundamentals, supporting both homeownership and rental investments. The quick turnover of properties and the ability to charge above average rents suggest that investors will continue to find success in this market segment, particularly those who can afford the initial investment required to enter this high-value ZIP code.
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.