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 | $1,600 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,660 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,160 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,970 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,326 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,592 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,772 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,660 | $144,318 | 1.15% | B |
| 2BR | $1,810 | $217,944 | 0.83% | C |
| 3BR | $2,160 | $359,776 | 0.6% | D |
| 4BR | $2,560 | $469,520 | 0.55% | F |
| 5BR | $2,970 | $572,539 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The economics of Section 8 housing in ZIP code 30084, located in Tucker, Georgia, within DeKalb County, can be clearly defined using the latest Fair Market Rent (SAFMR) and local market rent figures. For a two-bedroom apartment, the SAFMR for FY 2024 is set at $1900. This rate is specifically tailored for this ZIP code, reflecting the unique rental dynamics of the area. In contrast, the local market rent, as indicated by the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), stands at $1,695.
A landlord participating in the Section 8 program receives reimbursement based on the difference between the actual rent charged and 30% of the household's adjusted income, which is the tenant's portion. The maximum amount that can be charged is capped at the SAFMR. If a landlord charges the full SAFMR of $1900, the tenant's portion would typically be around 30% of their income, assuming an average income level that necessitates housing assistance.
To illustrate, if a tenant's income is $20,000 per year, their monthly income is approximately $1667. Thirty percent of this income is $500, which is the amount they would pay towards rent. The remaining $1400 would be covered by the Section 8 voucher. However, the voucher also includes utility allowances, which vary but are generally around $200-$300 per month. Therefore, the total reimbursement a landlord might receive could be between $1600 and $1700 per month for a two-bedroom unit at the SAFMR rate.
Given that the local market rent is lower at $1695, a landlord might choose to charge less to attract tenants. If the landlord charges $1695, the tenant's portion remains at $500, leaving the voucher to cover $1195 plus utilities. Thus, the landlord's total reimbursement would likely be around $1400-$1500 per month.
The typical reimbursement gap or surplus for a two-bedroom unit in ZIP 30084, when charging the SAFMR rate, is a surplus of up to $100 per month over the local market rent. Conversely, if the landlord opts to charge the local market rate of $1695, there is no significant surplus, but the landlord benefits from a steady, government-backed payment that covers most of the rent.
In summary, landlords in ZIP 30084 have the option to charge up to $1900 for a two-bedroom unit under Section 8, with the voucher covering the majority of the rent and utilities. The reimbursement aligns closely with the local market rate, offering a slight surplus when charging the full SAFMR. This economic model ensures landlords receive reliable payments while providing affordable housing options for eligible tenants.
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.