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 | $1,780 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,860 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,318 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,716 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,013 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,214 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,860 | $192,026 | 0.97% | C |
| 2BR | $2,020 | $313,621 | 0.64% | D |
| 3BR | $2,410 | $677,790 | 0.36% | F |
| 4BR | $2,860 | $1,055,498 | 0.27% | F |
| 5BR | $3,318 | $1,798,090 | 0.18% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 30342, located in Sandy Springs, Georgia, represents a significant opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in Section 8 tenants. With a population of 33,349, nearly half of the residents—48.1%—are renters, indicating a robust demand for rental properties. This high percentage of renters suggests that there is a substantial pool of potential Section 8 tenants.
The median household income in ZIP 30342 is $124,111, which places it in a relatively affluent category. However, the market rent stands at $1,826 per month, which is a critical figure when considering the financial health of potential tenants. To put this into perspective, the typical rent consumes approximately 18.3% of the median local income. This is calculated by dividing the monthly rent ($1,826) by the annual median income ($124,111), then multiplying by 12 months to get an accurate percentage of income spent on rent.
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 30342, as determined by HUD for FY 2024, is set at $2,360. This means that the actual market rent is below the FMR, offering a margin of safety for landlords who might be concerned about the financial viability of their properties under Section 8 contracts. The lower market rent compared to the FMR also indicates that there could be a higher number of Section 8 vouchers available to cover the cost of renting in this area, making it a prime location for landlords looking to attract voucher holders.
A landlord in ZIP 30342 can expect a diverse tenant profile. While the area is generally affluent, the high percentage of renters suggests that there are many individuals and families who may benefit from the Section 8 program. These tenants will likely have a mix of incomes, but they will be able to afford the $1,826 market rent without exceeding the 30% of income threshold typically required by the program. Given the median income and the market rent, these tenants would contribute around $370 in rent from their own pockets, with the remainder covered by the voucher.
In conclusion, ZIP 30342 is a renter-heavy area with strong potential for attracting Section 8 tenants. The market rent is well below the FMR, ensuring that landlords can receive fair compensation while still providing affordable housing options. Landlords here should prepare for a tenant base that includes both low-income families and individuals who benefit from government assistance, alongside those who can pay market rates independently.
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.