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 | $1,840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,250 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,710 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,310 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,610 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,188 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,691 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,066 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,319 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,710 | $1,491,958 | 0.18% | F |
| 3BR | $3,310 | $1,982,239 | 0.17% | F |
| 4BR | $3,610 | $2,580,549 | 0.14% | F |
| 5BR | $4,188 | $3,318,401 | 0.13% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
3710 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 06853 in Norwalk, CT, for fiscal year 2024, indicating the maximum amount Section 8 tenants can pay for housing. 1871 represents the average market rent based on Census ACS data, showing that Section 8 rates are significantly higher than the local market rate. This creates an opportunity for landlords to receive higher rents compared to typical market conditions. 2153445 is the median home value in the area, suggesting a relatively high-value neighborhood where properties could command premium rents. 11.9% is the proportion of renters in Norwalk, which means that while a sizeable portion of the population rents, it also leaves a substantial segment of homeowners who might be interested in renting out additional properties. 250001 is the median income figure, implying a middle-class community that can support higher rental rates. The lack of data for days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that have been price-cut indicates a stable market without significant fluctuations or prolonged periods of unsold inventory. Given these factors, landlords and small-portfolio investors in Norwalk, CT, should consider participating in the Section 8 program to secure a steady stream of higher-than-market-rate income. Verdict: Section 8 is a viable option for securing above-average rental income in Norwalk, CT.
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.