Location: St. Lawrence County, NY | Metro: Watertown-Fort Drum, NY 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 | $880 |
| 1 Bedroom | $970 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,720 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,110 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,448 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,742 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,961 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,109 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,270 | $179,652 | 0.71% | D |
| 3BR | $1,720 | $218,490 | 0.79% | D |
| 4BR | $2,110 | $214,375 | 0.98% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 13646, located in Hammond, New York, stands out within Saint Lawrence County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 2,546 residents, 22.2% of whom are renters, the area maintains a relatively low rental rate compared to its median income of $72,212 and median home value of $169,060. These figures suggest that while homeownership is prevalent, there is still a significant portion of the community that relies on rental housing.
When it comes to Section 8 vouchers, the data reveals a substantial discrepancy between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2024, the FMR for ZIP 13646 is set at $1,360, whereas the Census ACS indicates an average market rent of $738. This means landlords can expect to receive a higher payment through the Section 8 program than what is typically charged in the local rental market. The difference between these two figures, approximately $622 per month, represents a significant financial incentive for landlords to participate in the program, especially in an area where rental demand is lower relative to homeownership.
Based on the data signature, ZIP 13646 appears to be a stable market. The relatively high median income and home values indicate a financially secure community. However, the disparity between FMR and market rents suggests that the rental market could be poised for growth, particularly if more residents opt for rental housing due to the affordability offered by Section 8 vouchers. This could make the ZIP code transitional in terms of rental dynamics, as the influx of voucher holders might gradually shift the balance between homeowners and renters.
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.