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 | $1,340 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,400 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,150 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,494 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,793 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,016 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,167 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,400 | $295,037 | 0.47% | F |
| 2BR | $1,520 | $273,565 | 0.56% | F |
| 3BR | $1,810 | $337,777 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $2,150 | $429,543 | 0.5% | F |
| 5BR | $2,494 | $452,766 | 0.55% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 30060, located in Marietta, Georgia, presents an interesting scenario for both renters and landlords alike. The median income in this area stands at $67,510, which contrasts sharply with the market rate for rent, known as the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), currently set at $1,557. This means that the average household would need to allocate nearly 23% of their gross annual income towards rent alone, assuming no other financial obligations. This figure is calculated based on the widely accepted guideline that housing costs should not exceed 30% of one's income.
Comparatively, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the zip code in fiscal year 2024 is $1,670, which is slightly higher than the market rate. The FMR is the amount that HUD sets as the maximum allowable rent for a unit to be considered affordable under the Housing Choice Voucher program, commonly referred to as Section 8. It indicates that even if a household qualifies for a voucher, they might still find the rent challenging, given the close proximity between the FMR and the actual market rate.
In ZIP 30060, where 51.4% of the population are renters, and the total population is 38,499, the affordability gap becomes a significant factor. With such a high percentage of residents relying on rental housing, landlords face intense competition. Renters looking for affordable options will naturally gravitate towards properties that accept vouchers, especially when the market rate is so close to the FMR. This dynamic suggests that landlords who choose to accept vouchers might secure a steady stream of tenants, albeit at a lower profit margin compared to cash-paying tenants.
The takeaway for landlords considering whether to adopt voucher versus cash-pay strategies is clear: while cash-paying tenants offer the potential for higher immediate returns, the reality of the affordability gap in ZIP 30060 means that accepting vouchers could provide greater stability and occupancy rates. Given the median income and the closeness of the market rate to the FMR, landlords should weigh the benefits of guaranteed payments against the risks of vacancy and turnover associated with higher rents. In a competitive market like Marietta, flexibility in accepting vouchers can be a strategic advantage.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.