Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 30180 - 2027

Investment Score for ZIP 30180

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	$199,523	0.81%	C
3BR	$1,930	$286,726	0.67%	D
4BR	$2,290	$345,866	0.66%	D
5BR	$2,656	$425,110	0.62%	D

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

### Market Analysis for ZIP Code 30180 (Villa Rica, GA) #### Section 8 Voucher Dynamics The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 30180 is set by HUD for 2026, with specific rates for different bedroom sizes. For a two-bedroom unit, the FMR is $1680 per month. However, the actual rental market in Villa Rica appears to be significantly higher, as evidenced by the Zillow median price-to-FMR ratio of 9.9x. This means that the typical rent for a two-bedroom unit in Villa Rica could be around $16,632 annually, which is far above the FMR. Section 8 voucher holders face significant constraints due to this disparity. The maximum allowable rent for a two-bedroom unit under the voucher program is $1680, but landlords may be unwilling to accept this rate given the higher market rents. Consequently, voucher holders might struggle to find suitable housing within their budget, leading to potential difficulties in securing homes in Villa Rica. #### Affordability & Renter Profile Villa Rica has a population of 43,013, with 22.4% of residents being renters. The occupancy rate stands at 93.1%, indicating a relatively tight rental market. Given the median household income of $88,514, the FMR for a two-bedroom unit represents approximately 22.8% of the median income. This suggests that renting a two-bedroom property at FMR is generally affordable for most residents, especially those earning close to the median income. However, the high price-to-FMR ratio indicates that the actual rental market is much more expensive. This makes it challenging for lower-income individuals, particularly those relying on Section 8 vouchers, to find affordable housing. The tight market and high rents suggest that Villa Rica is experiencing upward pressure on rental prices, making it less accessible for low-income households. #### Investor Angle From an investor’s perspective, the ZIP code 30180 offers mixed opportunities. The FMR for a two-bedroom unit is $1680, but the actual market rents are likely much higher, around $16,632 annually based on the price-to-FMR ratio. If an investor can secure properties at or near the FMR, they would likely see positive cash flow, especially if they can leverage the demand from voucher holders who are willing to pay up to the FMR. However, the challenge lies in finding landlords willing to accept the FMR when the market rents are so much higher. The investment grade for this ZIP code would depend on the ability to acquire properties at or below the FMR and the willingness of landlords to participate in the Section 8 program. Given the high market rents, there is a risk that many landlords will prefer higher-paying tenants over those using Section 8 vouchers. #### Specific Actionable Insights 1. **Focus on Affordable Units**: Investors should focus on acquiring two-bedroom units priced at or near the FMR of $1680. This aligns well with the affordability threshold for most residents and maximizes the potential for positive cash flow when rented to Section 8 voucher holders. 2. **Negotiate with Landlords**: Since the actual market rents are much higher than the FMR, investors must negotiate with landlords to ensure they are willing to accept the FMR. This negotiation could involve offering incentives such as long-term leases or assistance with tenant placement through local housing authorities. 3. **Consider Multi-Family Properties**: Given the high price-to-FMR ratio, multi-family properties may offer better opportunities for positive cash flow. These properties often have economies of scale that can help offset the lower rent rates compared to single-family homes. #### Bottom Line For Section 8-focused investors, the ZIP code 30180 presents a challenging yet potentially rewarding market. While the high price-to-FMR ratio makes it difficult to compete with market rents, there is still a significant demand for affordable housing among the 22.4% of renters. The recommendation is to **Buy** properties priced at or near the FMR, specifically targeting two-bedroom units. However, investors must be prepared to engage in negotiations with landlords and consider multi-family properties to maximize their chances of success. The tight rental market and high occupancy rate indicate strong demand, but the key will be securing properties at the right price point to ensure profitability.

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.