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 | $2,120 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,290 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,850 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,400 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,810 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,420 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,950 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,346 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,613 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,850 | $360,573 | 0.79% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
2510 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for Helmetta, NJ, as defined by HUD for zip code 08828 in fiscal year 2024. 2144 is the average market rent for the area according to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey. The median home value stands at 425,132, indicating a substantial investment potential. 36.5% of residents in Helmetta are renters, reflecting a significant portion of the population that relies on rental housing. The median income in the area is 98,952, providing insight into the financial capacity of local tenants. Despite the lack of specific data regarding days on market (DOM) and the percentage of listings that have had their prices cut, the current FMR and market rent figures offer a clear indication of the rental landscape. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should note that the difference between the HUD-defined FMR and the actual market rent suggests a favorable environment for rental properties. With 36.5% of the population renting, demand remains robust. However, investors must consider the median home value when assessing property acquisition costs. Given the median income, tenants are likely to be well-positioned to afford rents up to the FMR, supporting the viability of Section 8 tenancy. 2510 is the cap for Section 8 rents, ensuring that landlords receive a stable and predictable income. In conclusion, Helmetta, NJ, presents a balanced opportunity for those interested in Section 8 properties, with strong demand and reasonable income levels supporting tenancy.
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.