Location: Jackson County, GA | Metro: Athens-Clarke County, GA MSA
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 | $1,050 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,070 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,274 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,456 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,579 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,200 | $247,243 | 0.49% | F |
| 3BR | $1,570 | $345,087 | 0.45% | F |
| 4BR | $1,750 | $456,354 | 0.38% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 30530, located in Commerce, GA, is home to a population of 7,260 individuals. With 35.2% of residents being renters, this area has a significant tenant pool that could benefit from Section 8 housing vouchers. The median household income stands at $55,392, indicating a moderate economic status among residents.
The market rent in this area is currently set at $993 per month, which represents approximately 18% of the median household income. This means that a typical renter spends nearly one-fifth of their income on housing, highlighting the financial strain many tenants face. Comparatively, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the region, as determined by HUD for FY 2024, is $1070. This suggests that the actual market rent is slightly below the FMR, potentially making it easier for Section 8 tenants to find affordable housing options.
A landlord in ZIP 30530 can expect a tenant profile that is heavily reliant on government assistance for housing. These tenants will likely have a household income that falls below the area median, making them eligible for the Section 8 program. Given the high percentage of renters and the income levels relative to the cost of housing, there is a strong likelihood of deep voucher demand in this area. Landlords should prepare to handle the administrative requirements associated with accepting Section 8 vouchers, including regular inspections and compliance with federal housing standards.
In summary, ZIP 30530 is a renter-heavy area with a substantial portion of the population relying on housing vouchers. The existing market conditions favor the acceptance of Section 8 vouchers, as the current rents are below the FMR and align well with the financial capabilities of low-income households. Landlords should anticipate a tenant base that requires government subsidies to meet housing costs, necessitating an understanding of the Section 8 program's requirements and benefits.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.