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 | $2,030 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,510 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,910 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,490 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $4,330 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $5,023 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $5,626 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $6,076 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $6,380 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $2,510 | $656,998 | 0.38% | F |
| 2BR | $2,910 | $1,017,817 | 0.29% | F |
| 3BR | $3,490 | $1,663,949 | 0.21% | F |
| 4BR | $4,330 | $3,059,059 | 0.14% | F |
| 5BR | $5,023 | $5,573,271 | 0.09% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 06830, located in Greenwich, Connecticut, within the Bridgeport-Stamford-Danbury MSA, reveals several key points regarding its viability for real estate investment, particularly for Section 8 landlords and small-portfolio investors.
Firstly, the rent math does not favor Section 8 participation. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 06830 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $2810, which is significantly lower than the market rent, indicated by the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) at $4031. This disparity means that landlords would receive less than half of the market rent through the Section 8 program, making it economically unfeasible without substantial subsidies.
Secondly, property acquisition in this area is not affordable for most investors. The median home value stands at $2,424,173, a figure that is high and indicative of a premium market. Furthermore, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the extremely low percentage of homes needing price cuts (0.1%) suggest that the housing market is robust and competitive, likely deterring new investors due to the high entry costs and limited opportunities for negotiating lower purchase prices.
Lastly, there is a notable tenant demand, but it may not be sufficient to offset the other challenges. With a population of 24,880 and a 42.6% renter share, there are approximately 10,582 potential renters. However, the high cost of living and the premium nature of the market may limit the pool of eligible Section 8 tenants, who often require assistance due to financial constraints.
In conclusion, while there is a significant tenant demand in ZIP 06830, the unfavorable rent math and the high cost of property acquisition make this area challenging for Section 8 landlords and small-portfolio investors. The economics do not align well with the investment goals of these groups, and the premium market conditions may further complicate efforts to secure properties at reasonable prices. Therefore, this zip code is not recommended for such investments.
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.