Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 30102 - 2027

Investment Score for ZIP 30102

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	$1,500
1 Bedroom	$1,560
2 Bedrooms	$1,700
3 Bedrooms	$2,030
4 Bedrooms	$2,410
5 Bedrooms	$2,796
6 Bedrooms	$3,132
7 Bedrooms	$3,383
8 Bedrooms	$3,552

Investment Analysis by Bedroom Size

Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)

Bedrooms	Monthly FMR	Median Price	1% Rule	Grade
2BR	$1,700	$284,920	0.6%	F
3BR	$2,030	$346,244	0.59%	F
4BR	$2,410	$427,002	0.56%	F
5BR	$2,796	$514,716	0.54%	F

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

### Market Analysis for ZIP Code 30102 (Acworth, GA) #### Section 8 Voucher Dynamics The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for Acworth, GA, as of 2026, is set at $1680 for a two-bedroom unit. This figure represents the maximum amount that a Section 8 voucher holder can be reimbursed by the government for rent. However, the actual rental market in Acworth is significantly higher, with the Zillow median price for a two-bedroom unit being $289,513. The price-to-FMR ratio is 14.4x, which means that the median home value is 14.4 times the FMR for a two-bedroom unit. For voucher holders, this implies that they would likely struggle to find units that fall within their reimbursement limit. The 20.6% of median income allocated for a two-bedroom unit suggests that even if a voucher holder were to find a unit within the FMR, it would still represent a significant portion of their income. #### Affordability & Renter Profile The population of Acworth is 45,319, with 23.4% of residents being renters. The occupancy rate stands at 94.5%, indicating a relatively tight rental market. Given the median household income of $97,676, it is clear that the area attracts a higher-income demographic. However, the affordability of housing for lower-income renters is a concern, especially when considering the high median home values. The 23.4% renter population is likely composed of individuals who either cannot afford to buy or prefer renting due to lifestyle choices. The tight market conditions suggest that there is limited supply relative to demand, making it difficult for lower-income households to secure affordable rentals. #### Investor Angle From an investor perspective, the ZIP code 30102 presents both opportunities and challenges. The FMR for a two-bedroom unit is $1680, but the actual median rental price is much higher. To determine whether this ZIP code is cash-flow positive at FMR, we need to consider the typical rental rates versus the FMR. If an investor were to purchase a property at the median home value and attempt to rent it out at the FMR, they would likely face significant financial pressure. The median home value of $289,513, combined with typical mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs, would make it challenging to break even at the FMR. The investment grade for this ZIP code would be considered low for Section 8-focused investors due to the high price-to-FMR ratio. The cost of acquiring and maintaining properties at these levels would exceed the potential rental income from voucher holders, leading to negative cash flow scenarios. #### 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 or studio apartments. These units typically have lower FMRs and might be more aligned with the actual rental market. For instance, the FMR for a one-bedroom unit is $1530, which is closer to what might be achievable in terms of rental income. 2. **Target Lower-Value Properties**: Investors could target properties that are below the median home value. While the median home value is $289,513, there are likely properties available at lower prices. By purchasing homes at a discount, investors can potentially achieve positive cash flow even at the FMR. 3. **Consider Subsidies and Programs**: Investors might want to explore additional subsidies and programs beyond Section 8 vouchers. Some areas offer local housing assistance programs that can supplement the income of voucher holders, making it more feasible to operate at FMR levels. #### Bottom Line Given the high price-to-FMR ratio and the tight rental market, the recommendation for Section 8-focused investors in ZIP code 30102 is to **skip** this market. The financial pressures associated with operating at FMR levels in a high-cost area like Acworth make it less attractive for those solely relying on Section 8 vouchers for rental income. Instead, investors might want to look into other ZIP codes where the price-to-FMR ratio is more favorable and where there is a larger pool of potential voucher holders who can afford the rent.

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.