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 | $1,750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,360 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,800 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,248 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,638 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,929 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,125 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,980 | $284,826 | 0.7% | D |
| 3BR | $2,360 | $355,598 | 0.66% | D |
| 4BR | $2,800 | $422,103 | 0.66% | D |
| 5BR | $3,248 | $515,569 | 0.63% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Lawrenceville’s 30043 zip code sits in the heart of Gwinnett County, offering investors a blend of historic charm and modern suburban expansion. The area is characterized by established single-family neighborhoods and a growing inventory of townhomes, appealing to families seeking proximity to job hubs. A major economic anchor here is the Gwinnett Medical Center (part of Northside Hospital), which provides significant stable employment and drives consistent housing demand from healthcare professionals. The presence of this institution, coupled with the area's parks and recreational amenities, reinforces the neighborhood’s reputation as a solid, family-centric community.
From a financial perspective, the data reveals a clear advantage for utilizing the Housing Choice Voucher program. The FY2026 2-Bedroom Fair Market Rent is set at $2,040, which is substantially higher than the current market rent of $1,849. This creates a premium gap of $191 per month, allowing landlords to maximize revenue above standard market rates. Additionally, the median home value in the area is $408,364, with a median 2-bedroom sale price of $290,057. Properties here tend to move at a moderate pace, with a median of 62 days on market, suggesting a balanced environment for acquisition.
The tenant pool is robust, underpinned by a median household income of $94,096 and a renter share of 32.5%. This income level suggests that even the non-voucher market is financially healthy, reducing the risk of vacancy. Families are drawn to the area for its access to top-rated schools within the Gwinnett County Public School system and the convenience of major transit corridors like GA-316. These factors create a steady demand for quality rental units, ensuring that landlords can maintain high occupancy rates.
The Section 8 verdict for 30043 is overwhelmingly positive, driven primarily by the potential for immediate cashflow. With the HUD FMR exceeding the Zillow market rent by nearly $200 per month, investors can secure guaranteed payments that outperform the local market. The combination of a strong local employer, desirable schools, and a healthy median income makes this a low-risk, high-yield opportunity for small-portfolio investors looking to stabilize their assets while maximizing income.
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.