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 | $1,860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,940 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,110 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,510 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,990 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,468 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,884 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,195 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,405 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,110 | $360,839 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $2,510 | $466,814 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $2,990 | $570,145 | 0.52% | F |
| 5BR | $3,468 | $809,399 | 0.43% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Suwanee, Georgia (ZIP 30024) stands out as a highly affluent suburb in Gwinnett County, consistently ranked among the best places to live in the state due to its master-planned communities and extensive park system. The area is anchored by major employers such as Siemens Energy, which operates a significant hub here, providing a strong economic base that supports high-end retail and dining at the upscale Town Center. This neighborhood character is defined by low crime rates and a family-friendly atmosphere that appeals to long-term residents seeking stability.
Financially, the gap between subsidized payments and market reality creates a challenging environment for Section 8 strategies. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a 2-bedroom unit in this ZIP is $2,280, but the current market rent (Zillow ZORI) sits significantly lower at $1,849, resulting in a $431 spread where voucher payments exceed typical market rates. Despite this payment premium, acquisition costs are steep, with a median home value of $615,386 and a median 2BR sale price of $368,147. Properties here spend a median of 42 days on market before selling, indicating a competitive but not instantaneous turnover for investors.
The tenant pool reflects the area's wealth, with a median household income of $143,879 and a renter share of just 22.9%. This demographic suggests that the local Section 8 demand may be lower than in denser urban cores, as the high cost of living and luxury housing stock naturally filter for higher earners. However, demand from voucher holders is bolstered by the presence of top-rated schools within the Gwinnett County Public School system, making the area attractive for families seeking housing stability despite the high price point.
The strongest investor angle in Suwanee 30024 is not immediate cash flow, but rather appreciation and portfolio stability. While the $431 gap between FMR and market rent offers a ceiling on potential income, the high acquisition costs relative to rental yields squeeze margins. Investors should view this market as a defensive play; the combination of a high median income and robust local employers ensures property values remain resilient, making it a safer bet for long-term equity growth rather than quick monthly gains.
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.