Location: Emanuel County, GA | Metro: Emanuel County, GA
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 | $860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $960 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,018 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,260 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,441 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,563 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,040 | $76,240 | 1.36% | A |
| 3BR | $1,390 | $150,036 | 0.93% | C |
| 4BR | $1,740 | $278,283 | 0.63% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 30401, located in Swainsboro, Georgia, presents a unique opportunity for real-estate investors looking to balance yield and stability. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is projected at $1,000. This is notably higher than the current market rent of $830, indicating a potential for increased rental income in the future. However, the median home value in the area stands at $130,427, which is relatively low compared to other markets.
The stability of the market can be assessed through several indicators. Currently, 46.0% of residents are renters, suggesting a moderate demand for rental properties. Unfortunately, the data does not provide information on the average number of days a property remains on the market (DOM), which would be crucial for understanding how quickly properties can be rented out. The median household income in the area is $53,071, which is a key factor in determining the ability of tenants to pay rent consistently.
Based on these figures, ZIP 30401 leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone. While the projected FMR indicates a decent yield, the relatively low median home value and moderate percentage of renters suggest that the market is not highly volatile. The lack of day DOM data prevents a full assessment of the speed at which properties can be leased, but the income figure supports a stable tenant base capable of paying consistent rent.
To summarize, the combination of a projected increase in rental income and a stable tenant population makes this area suitable for investors seeking reliable returns rather than high-risk, high-reward opportunities. The $1,000 FMR for FY 2026 and the $53,071 median income are the primary drivers of this classification. For those interested in flipping properties for quick gains, this market may not offer the best prospects due to its lower volatility and the absence of strong day DOM metrics.
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.