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 | $1,300 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,350 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,080 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,413 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,703 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,919 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,065 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,750 | $423,551 | 0.41% | F |
| 4BR | $2,080 | $614,748 | 0.34% | F |
| 5BR | $2,413 | $969,171 | 0.25% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 30205 in the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA HUD Metro FMR Area is best suited as an appreciation play within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 in this area is set at $1,630, which is significantly higher than the market rent of $1,158. This spread indicates that the rental market in 30205 is less competitive for Section 8 vouchers, as the FMR is above what most tenants might pay on the open market.
The median home value in ZIP 30205 stands at $626,639, reflecting a relatively affluent neighborhood. However, the median income of $105,700 suggests that even in such an area, there remains a segment of the population eligible for Section 8 assistance. With a renter share of 10.4%, it's clear that a significant portion of residents prefer or need to rent, rather than own property. This aligns well with the objective of an appreciation play, where the goal is to capitalize on potential future increases in property values, rather than focusing solely on current cash flow.
The low price-cut share of 0.2% and non-applicable day DOM (Days on Market) indicate that properties in this area do not typically require substantial discounts to attract tenants, nor do they stay on the market for extended periods. This stability supports the idea of investing for long-term appreciation, as properties are likely to maintain their value and potentially increase over time without the need for frequent adjustments or marketing efforts.
In conclusion, ZIP 30205 should be considered as part of an appreciation play within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. Its high FMR relative to the market rent, combined with a stable rental market and a median income level that supports both ownership and rental, makes it an ideal candidate for investments focused on capital growth rather than immediate cash flow. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can expect to hold onto properties that will appreciate in value, while still maintaining occupancy through the Section 8 program.
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.