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 | $910 |
| 1 Bedroom | $960 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,050 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,500 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,105 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,210 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,050 | $281,361 | 0.37% | F |
| 3BR | $1,260 | $358,964 | 0.35% | F |
| 4BR | $1,500 | $473,938 | 0.32% | F |
| 5BR | $1,740 | $632,293 | 0.28% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 program in ZIP code 30184 presents a unique opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors due to the significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2024, the FMR is set at $1320, while the Census ACS reports the market rent at $908. This means there is a gap of $412 per month, or approximately 32%, between what voucher holders can pay and what the market currently demands.
In this scenario where the FMR exceeds the market rent, landlords should consider the benefits of accepting Section 8 tenants. Voucher tenants provide a reliable source of income, as the federal government covers the difference between the market rent and the tenant's portion. This makes the property a strong yield play, especially considering that only 13.2% of residents in Georgia are renters, indicating a smaller pool of potential tenants who might not be able to afford higher rents.
Moreover, the median home value in Georgia is $396,769, and the median income is $110,694. These figures suggest that homeownership is a prevalent choice among residents, which further emphasizes the importance of attracting stable rental income through Section 8 vouchers. By accepting voucher tenants, landlords can ensure a steady stream of rent payments without the risk of vacancy, making it a financially sound strategy in a region where rental demand is relatively low compared to homeownership.
However, it is important to note that accepting Section 8 tenants comes with certain responsibilities and regulations that must be adhered to. Landlords must maintain their properties to meet Housing Quality Standards (HQS) and undergo regular inspections. Despite these requirements, the financial stability offered by voucher tenants, combined with the gap between FMR and market rent, makes this an attractive option for investors looking to maximize returns in ZIP 30184.
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.