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 | $1,880 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,960 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,540 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,030 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,515 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,937 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,252 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,465 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,960 | $208,332 | 0.94% | C |
| 2BR | $2,130 | $299,357 | 0.71% | D |
| 3BR | $2,540 | $510,001 | 0.5% | F |
| 4BR | $3,030 | $652,357 | 0.46% | F |
| 5BR | $3,515 | $930,409 | 0.38% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 market analysis for ZIP code 30329 in Atlanta, Georgia, reveals a favorable environment for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area in fiscal year 2024 is set at $2350. In contrast, the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) for the same area stands at $1,767. This discrepancy means that voucher tenants can generally cashflow at the HUD FMR, providing a significant financial buffer for property owners.
To further understand the investment potential, consider the median home value in ZIP 30329, which is $524,002. Using this figure, we calculate the rent-to-price ratio to be approximately 0.34%. This ratio suggests that rental income represents a small percentage of the total home value, indicating that the area is more suited for homeownership rather than rental investment. However, the presence of a strong Section 8 market can offset this trend, making rental properties attractive despite the high home values.
The current market conditions also include a median Days on Market (DOM) of N/A, which is typically indicative of a balanced market where neither buyers nor sellers have an overwhelming advantage. Additionally, the price-cut share of 0.2% implies that sellers rarely need to lower their asking prices, reflecting a stable housing market. These factors contribute to the overall stability of the rental market in Dekalb County, supporting consistent cash flows for investors.
The strongest angle for Section 8 investors in ZIP 30329 is cash flow. With the HUD FMR significantly exceeding the market rent, landlords can expect positive cash flow from voucher tenants, making it a lucrative opportunity for those looking to generate steady rental income.
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.