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 | $1,050 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,090 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,190 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,680 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,183 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,358 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,476 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,090 | $189,193 | 0.58% | F |
| 2BR | $1,190 | $206,103 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $1,420 | $270,387 | 0.53% | F |
| 4BR | $1,680 | $386,541 | 0.43% | F |
| 5BR | $1,949 | $489,584 | 0.4% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 30117, located in Carrollton, Georgia, presents a robust opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in attracting Section 8 tenants. With a population of 39,804, nearly half—46.6%—are renters, indicating a significant demand for rental properties. This high percentage of renters suggests that there is a substantial pool of potential tenants who may rely on housing vouchers.
The median household income in this area stands at $61,842, which is crucial when considering the affordability of the market rent. The typical market rent in ZIP 30117 is $1,411 per month. To put this into perspective, the monthly market rent consumes approximately 27.8% of the average local income. This calculation is derived from dividing the monthly rent by the annual median income and then multiplying by 12 to get the percentage of income spent on rent annually.
Comparing the market rent to the Fair Market Rent (FMR), which is set at $1,320 for FY 2024, reveals that the market rent in ZIP 30117 slightly exceeds the FMR. This means that landlords may need to adjust their expectations if they intend to participate in the Section 8 program, as the maximum allowable rent under the program is based on the FMR. However, given the high percentage of renters, there is likely strong demand for affordable housing options, making it a viable market for Section 8 participation.
A landlord in ZIP 30117 can expect a tenant profile that includes individuals and families who benefit from housing vouchers. These tenants will typically have an income level below the median, often relying on government assistance to afford housing. The voucher system allows these tenants to pay a portion of their income towards rent while the government covers the rest, ensuring that landlords receive consistent rental payments. Given the high demand for rentals and the affordability of the FMR compared to the market rent, landlords should be prepared to offer competitive rates to attract voucher holders 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.