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 | $1,660 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,730 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,880 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,240 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,660 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,086 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,456 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,732 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,919 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,880 | $275,774 | 0.68% | D |
| 3BR | $2,240 | $325,020 | 0.69% | D |
| 4BR | $2,660 | $417,597 | 0.64% | D |
| 5BR | $3,086 | $498,912 | 0.62% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rental market in Auburn, Georgia (ZIP 30011) presents an interesting scenario when analyzed from the perspective of potential renters. The median household income stands at $86,402, which provides some financial cushion for residents. However, the market rate for rent, known as the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), is set at $2,248 per month. This figure represents the average rent paid by tenants in the area and is a key indicator of how much rent a household might realistically be able to afford.
When comparing the ZORI to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) used for Housing Choice Vouchers, which is $1,900 for the fiscal year 2024, it becomes evident that there is a significant affordability gap. The difference between the market rate and the voucher payment standard means that landlords who accept vouchers must adjust their expectations to receive less than the typical market rate. This gap is substantial, amounting to $348 per month, and could impact the profitability of properties that solely rely on voucher payments.
Auburn has a population of 21,624, with 18.1% of those being renters. This percentage suggests a notable demand for rental housing but also implies a competitive landscape for landlords. Given the affordability gap, landlords might find themselves in a situation where they have to choose between accepting lower rents through vouchers or potentially leaving units vacant due to unaffordable market rates for some tenants.
The takeaway for landlords considering whether to adopt a voucher versus cash-pay strategy is clear: while the median income supports higher rent payments, the reality of the voucher payment standard means that a portion of the rental market will only be able to afford units at the lower end of the spectrum. Landlords should consider diversifying their tenant mix to include both voucher recipients and cash-paying tenants. This approach can help stabilize cash flow and ensure consistent occupancy, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy investment portfolio in Auburn.
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.