Location: Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA | Metro: Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA 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 | $1,400 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,460 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,590 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,890 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,250 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,610 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,923 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,157 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,315 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,590 | $212,410 | 0.75% | D |
| 3BR | $1,890 | $320,579 | 0.59% | F |
| 4BR | $2,250 | $383,626 | 0.59% | F |
| 5BR | $2,610 | $424,332 | 0.62% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Marietta, GA's ZIP code 30008 is a bustling suburban area with a total population of 35,547 residents. The neighborhood has a significant rental market, with 41.0% of the population being renters. This indicates a robust demand for rental properties, making it an attractive investment opportunity for both landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The median household income in this area is $74,877, reflecting a middle-class community with a solid economic foundation. The median home value stands at $327,798, which suggests a moderate cost of living and a stable housing market.
From an investment perspective, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 30008 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,670. In contrast, the market rent, measured by Zillow's Observed Rental Index (ZORI), is $1,897. This means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect their rents to be slightly below the market rate, but still competitive and sufficient to cover operating costs and provide a modest profit margin.
The gap between the FMR and the ZORI highlights an opportunity for hands-on investors who are willing to manage properties actively. These investors can focus on value-add strategies such as property renovations or improving tenant services to attract higher-paying tenants or command premiums over the FMR. For hands-off operators, the stability of the Section 8 program ensures a steady stream of income, albeit at a lower rate compared to market rents.
In conclusion, ZIP code 30008 in Marietta, GA, offers a balanced environment for both types of investors. Hands-on value-add buyers can leverage the difference between FMR and ZORI to increase their returns, while hands-off voucher operators can benefit from the reliable income stream provided by the Section 8 program.
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.