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 | $1,140 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,190 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,830 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,123 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,378 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,568 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,696 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,540 | $186,349 | 0.83% | C |
| 4BR | $1,830 | $279,873 | 0.65% | D |
| 5BR | $2,123 | $381,298 | 0.56% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP Code 30288, located in Conley, GA, reveals a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI). The FMR for ZIP 30288 is set at $1,360 for fiscal year 2024, whereas the ZORI stands at $1,819, indicating a discrepancy of $459. This translates to a 33.6% difference, with the market rent being substantially higher than the FMR.
In this context, the rental market is clearly above the FMR, suggesting that landlords and small-portfolio investors who accept housing vouchers must absorb the difference between the FMR and the actual market rate. Given that only 23.9% of the renters in ZIP 30288 rely on vouchers, and the median home value is $209,316 with a median income of $51,511, the cost of renting below market rates could impact profitability. However, the lower median income also implies that there is a demand for affordable housing options, which could be met by accepting vouchers.
The disparity between the FMR and ZORI underscores the challenge faced by landlords who wish to participate in the Section 8 program. They must decide whether the long-term benefits of stable, government-backed tenants outweigh the short-term financial loss due to the lower rental rates.
To summarize, the gap between the FMR and market rent in ZIP 30288 is $459, representing a 33.6% difference. This makes it a challenging environment for landlords looking to maximize their rental yields, as they must consider the costs associated with renting below market rates to voucher holders.
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.