Location: Rome, 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 | $850 |
| 1 Bedroom | $990 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,856 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,079 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,245 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,357 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,220 | $163,104 | 0.75% | D |
| 3BR | $1,600 | $248,159 | 0.64% | D |
| 4BR | $1,600 | $378,330 | 0.42% | F |
| 5BR | $1,856 | $144,030 | 1.29% | A |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 30161, located in Rome, Georgia, presents an interesting scenario when analyzing housing affordability from a renter's perspective. The median income for a household in this area stands at $61,667. When compared to the market rate rent, which is $1,239 per month (ZORI), it becomes evident that the cost of living in the area is relatively high.
To put this into context, let’s consider the financial burden on a typical household. Assuming a household spends no more than 30% of their income on rent, which is a common benchmark, a household in ZIP 30161 would be able to afford a maximum rent of approximately $1,541 per month ($61,667 * 0.3 / 12). This means that the current market rate of $1,239 is slightly below but still close to the affordable threshold, indicating that many households may find it challenging to cover other expenses while paying market-rate rent.
However, the Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8, offers a different payment standard. For fiscal year 2024, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 30161 is set at $1,010. This represents a significant gap between the market rate and the voucher payment, suggesting that landlords might need to adjust their expectations if they choose to participate in the voucher program.
The ZIP code has a population of 34,705, with 39.3% of residents being renters. This implies that there are around 13,653 renters in the area. Given the affordability gap, it is likely that competition among landlords is fierce, especially for those who can offer rents closer to the voucher payment standards.
For landlords considering their strategy, the key takeaway is that while market-rate rents provide higher income, the affordability gap means that demand for more affordable rental options is strong. Landlords who are willing to accept voucher payments may attract a steady stream of tenants, albeit at lower monthly rates. On the other hand, those who focus on cash-paying tenants must ensure that their properties offer value that justifies the higher rent, such as superior amenities, location, or maintenance levels.
In summary, ZIP 30161 presents a scenario where landlords must carefully weigh the benefits of accepting vouchers against the potential for higher cash rent. The decision should be based on understanding the local tenant demographics and their ability to pay, as well as the landlord's own financial goals and property management capabilities.
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.