Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 30126 - 2027

Investment Score for ZIP 30126

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	$1,430
1 Bedroom	$1,490
2 Bedrooms	$1,620
3 Bedrooms	$1,930
4 Bedrooms	$2,290
5 Bedrooms	$2,656
6 Bedrooms	$2,975
7 Bedrooms	$3,213
8 Bedrooms	$3,374

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	$1,620	$221,741	0.73%	D
3BR	$1,930	$321,124	0.6%	D
4BR	$2,290	$443,246	0.52%	F
5BR	$2,656	$598,039	0.44%	F

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

### Market Analysis for ZIP Code 30126 (Mableton, GA) #### Section 8 Voucher Dynamics In ZIP code 30126, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a two-bedroom unit is set at $1720 per month for the year 2026. However, the actual rent charged by landlords can vary significantly. The Zillow median price for a two-bedroom property in this area is $220,607, which translates to a monthly rent of approximately $1053 based on a typical mortgage payment (assuming a 4.5% interest rate and a 20-year amortization period). This means that the actual rent is significantly lower than the FMR, with a price-to-FMR ratio of 10.7x. For voucher holders, this ratio indicates that they might struggle to find units that accept their vouchers due to the high cost of housing relative to the FMR. Landlords may be hesitant to accept vouchers if they believe they can charge higher rents without them. #### Affordability & Renter Profile The median household income in Mableton is $101,891, and 21.9% of the population are renters. Given that the FMR for a two-bedroom unit is $1720, this represents about 20.3% of the median income. This suggests that the majority of residents can afford to live in two-bedroom units, but it also implies that there is a significant portion of the population who may struggle with housing costs. With an occupancy rate of 93.2%, the rental market appears to be relatively tight, indicating that there is strong demand for rental properties. However, the high price-to-FMR ratio suggests that affordability could be a challenge for some renters, particularly those relying on Section 8 vouchers. #### Investor Angle From an investor perspective, the ZIP code 30126 offers a potentially attractive opportunity. The FMR for a two-bedroom unit is $1720, while the actual rent charged is around $1053, based on the Zillow median price. This discrepancy means that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers can still achieve positive cash flow, even though the rent is lower than what they might charge in the open market. The investment grade for this ZIP code would likely be considered moderate to good, given the strong demand and relatively stable rental market. However, the high price-to-FMR ratio should be a consideration, as it may limit the pool of potential tenants who can afford the rent. #### Specific Actionable Insights 1. **Target Properties Below FMR**: Investors should focus on acquiring properties where the rent is below the FMR, specifically targeting units priced closer to the Zillow median price of $1053. This will ensure a better chance of attracting voucher holders and maintaining positive cash flow. 2. **Consider Renovations to Increase Value**: Given the high price-to-FMR ratio, investors might consider renovating older properties to increase their value and attract a broader range of tenants. This could include upgrades to kitchens, bathrooms, and energy-efficient appliances, which can help justify higher rents while still being within the FMR guidelines. 3. **Engage with Local Housing Authorities**: To maximize the chances of finding tenants who can use Section 8 vouchers, investors should engage closely with local housing authorities. Understanding the process and requirements for accepting vouchers can streamline the tenant acquisition process and reduce vacancy rates. #### Bottom Line For Section 8-focused investors, ZIP code 30126 presents a mixed picture. While the rental market is tight and there is strong demand, the high price-to-FMR ratio poses challenges in terms of affordability for voucher holders. Nonetheless, the potential for positive cash flow and the moderate investment grade make this ZIP code worth considering. Therefore, the recommendation is to **Hold** on to existing investments in this area, but to be selective when acquiring new properties, focusing on those with rents closer to the Zillow median price. Engaging with local housing authorities and possibly renovating properties to improve their appeal can enhance the viability of these investments.

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.