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 | $1,680 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,910 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,700 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,132 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,508 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,789 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,978 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,910 | $197,165 | 0.97% | C |
| 3BR | $2,280 | $300,057 | 0.76% | D |
| 4BR | $2,700 | $370,927 | 0.73% | D |
| 5BR | $3,132 | $465,965 | 0.67% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 30087, located in Stone Mountain, GA, within the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA HUD Metro FMR Area, presents itself as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This designation is based on the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the market rent for the area.
The FMR for ZIP 30087 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $2030. In contrast, the current market rent stands at $2056. Despite the slight market premium, the FMR provides a stable and predictable source of income, which is essential for cash flow management. The median home value in the area is $346,164, indicating that this is a middle-income neighborhood where housing is affordable yet valuable.
A cash-flow anchor is a property that generates consistent rental income, allowing landlords to manage their overall portfolio's financial stability. In ZIP 30087, the FMR aligns closely with market rents, ensuring that landlords can rely on a steady stream of payments without the risk of significant rent fluctuations. This consistency is particularly important for small-portfolio investors who need to balance their cash flows across fewer properties.
While the area does offer some potential for appreciation, with a 0.2% price-cut share and an average 34-day Days on Market (DOM), these factors are less compelling compared to the cash-flow benefits. The low price-cut share suggests that homes in the area do not often go on sale, while the relatively short DOM indicates a competitive market but not necessarily rapid appreciation.
ZIP 30087 also serves as a diversifier due to its 15.0% renter share and a median household income of $96,491. However, the primary focus should be on the cash-flow anchor role because the FMR and market rent provide a solid foundation for rental income. The diversification aspect adds value but is secondary to the stability offered by the FMR.
In conclusion, ZIP 30087 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. Its stable rental income and close alignment between FMR and market rent make it an ideal choice for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to maintain financial predictability and manage their overall cash flow effectively.
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.