Location: Middlesex-Somerset-Hunterdon, NJ | Metro: Middlesex-Somerset-Hunterdon, NJ HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $1,630 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,240 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,690 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,970 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,445 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,858 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,167 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,375 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,690 | $531,224 | 0.51% | F |
| 4BR | $2,970 | $772,513 | 0.38% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 08826 stands out due to its unique mix of population dynamics and economic indicators. With a resident count of 5,459, only 12.0% of the population rents their homes, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied area. The median household income is relatively high at $123,750, which contrasts with the median home value of $552,637, suggesting that homeownership is still accessible despite the higher property values.
Moving to the specifics of Section 8 housing assistance, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 08826 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,950. This figure is notably higher than the market rent of $1,721, based on Census ACS data. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, this means that Section 8 vouchers can provide a slight premium over the typical rental rate in the area, potentially offsetting some of the administrative burdens associated with the program.
The data signature for ZIP 08826 reads as stable. The relatively low percentage of renters suggests a community where long-term homeownership is common, and the higher median income supports a steady demand for housing. While the voucher economics favor landlords with slightly above-market rates, the overall stability of the ZIP code implies that there is little risk of sudden changes in the housing market or significant shifts in the demographic makeup of the area.
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.