Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 30080 - 2027

Investment Score for ZIP 30080

Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size	Monthly FMR
Studio	$1,700
1 Bedroom	$1,770
2 Bedrooms	$1,930
3 Bedrooms	$2,300
4 Bedrooms	$2,730
5 Bedrooms	$3,167
6 Bedrooms	$3,547
7 Bedrooms	$3,831
8 Bedrooms	$4,023

Investment Analysis by Bedroom Size

Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)

Bedrooms	Monthly FMR	Median Price	1% Rule	Grade
1BR	$1,770	$189,527	0.93%	C
2BR	$1,930	$265,807	0.73%	D
3BR	$2,300	$435,120	0.53%	F
4BR	$2,730	$639,627	0.43%	F
5BR	$3,167	$854,615	0.37%	F

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

### Market Analysis for ZIP Code 30080 (Smyrna, GA) #### Section 8 Voucher Dynamics The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 30080, as set by HUD for 2026, is $2070 for a two-bedroom unit. However, the actual rental market in Smyrna, GA, as indicated by Zillow, has a median price for a two-bedroom property at $267,828. This suggests that the price-to-FMR ratio is approximately 10.8x, which means that the typical asking rent for a two-bedroom unit is significantly higher than the FMR. For voucher holders, this creates a significant constraint, as they may only be able to afford units priced at or below the FMR. Given the high actual rental prices, it is likely that many voucher holders will struggle to find suitable housing within their budget, particularly for larger units such as three-bedroom ($2480) and four-bedroom ($2960) properties. #### Affordability & Renter Profile With a median household income of $91,957, the affordability of housing in Smyrna is a critical issue. The fact that 27.0% of the median income is required to cover the FMR for a two-bedroom unit indicates that the rent burden is relatively high. This is compounded by the high occupancy rate of 91.7%, suggesting that there is little vacancy to ease pressure on rents. Additionally, with 52.7% of the population being renters, the demand for rental properties is substantial. This tight market makes it challenging for low-income households to find affordable housing, especially those relying on Section 8 vouchers. #### Investor Angle From an investor perspective, the ZIP code 30080 offers mixed opportunities. While the actual rental prices are high, the FMR represents a cap on what voucher holders can pay. To determine if this ZIP is cash-flow positive at FMR, we need to consider the typical rental rates and the FMR. If an investor can secure a rental property at or below the FMR, they could potentially achieve positive cash flow, but this would require finding units that are undervalued or underpriced relative to the market. Given the high price-to-FMR ratio, it is unlikely that most rental properties will be available at or below the FMR. Therefore, while there may be some opportunities for cash-flow positive investments, these will be limited. The investment grade for this ZIP code would be considered moderate due to the high demand for rental properties and the potential for rental income above the FMR, but also constrained by the affordability challenges faced by voucher holders. #### Specific Actionable Insights 1. **Focus on Smaller Units**: Given the high price-to-FMR ratio, investors should focus on smaller units such as one-bedroom ($1890) and zero-bedroom ($1800) apartments. These units are more likely to be within the FMR range and thus more accessible to voucher holders. Additionally, the lower FMR for smaller units reduces the risk of non-payment or eviction, making them a safer bet for Section 8-focused investors. 2. **Consider Renovation Projects**: Investors might look into purchasing older, less desirable properties that can be renovated and brought up to a standard where they can command higher rents. By renovating and improving these properties, investors can potentially increase their rental income beyond the FMR, thereby achieving better cash flow. However, this strategy requires careful consideration of renovation costs and the ability to attract tenants willing to pay above the FMR. 3. **Develop Relationships with Local Agencies**: Building relationships with local housing authorities and agencies that manage Section 8 vouchers can provide valuable insights into the availability of vouchers and the preferences of voucher holders. This can help investors tailor their offerings to meet the needs of this demographic, increasing the likelihood of successful tenancies. #### Bottom Line For Section 8-focused investors, the ZIP code 30080 presents a challenging environment due to the high actual rental prices and the tight market conditions. The recommendation for this ZIP code is to **Hold**. Investors should maintain a cautious approach and focus on smaller units that are more likely to be within the FMR range. While there may be opportunities for cash-flow positive investments, they will be limited, and the overall market dynamics suggest that it is not an ideal area for new Section 8 investments without a thorough understanding of the local rental landscape and the ability to navigate the high price-to-FMR ratio. --- This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the rental market dynamics in ZIP code 30080, focusing specifically on the implications for Section 8 voucher holders and investors. It highlights the challenges and potential strategies for navigating this market effectively.

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.