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 | $2,190 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,710 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,130 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,760 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $4,660 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $5,406 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $6,055 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $6,539 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $6,866 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $3,130 | $769,047 | 0.41% | F |
| 3BR | $3,760 | $994,980 | 0.38% | F |
| 4BR | $4,660 | $1,188,898 | 0.39% | F |
| 5BR | $5,406 | $1,521,109 | 0.36% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP 06903 in Stamford, Connecticut, reveals several key points for landlords and small-portfolio investors. First, regarding the rent math, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 is set at $3940, while the Census ACS indicates a market rent of $3,501. This suggests that landlords receiving FMR subsidies can expect to earn above the average market rent, making the rent math favorable.
Second, the acquisition cost is a significant consideration. The median home value in ZIP 06903 is $1,101,751. However, due to the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes needing price cuts, it's challenging to assess how competitive the purchase process might be. The high median home value implies that buying properties could be costly, but without DOM and price-cut data, the overall affordability remains unclear.
Third, tenant demand must be evaluated. With a population of 14,010 and a 6.8% renter share, there is a limited pool of potential tenants. This low renter share indicates that the majority of residents in ZIP 06903 own their homes rather than renting, which could pose challenges in finding and retaining tenants.
In summary, while the rent math works in favor of landlords with FMR subsidies, the high median home value suggests that acquisitions will be expensive. The low renter share in the area signals a smaller tenant pool, potentially complicating efforts to secure and keep renters. Investors should weigh these factors carefully before committing to this market.
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.