Location: Stephens County, GA | Metro: Franklin 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 | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $770 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,660 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,926 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,157 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,330 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,447 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,000 | $204,241 | 0.49% | F |
| 3BR | $1,280 | $276,462 | 0.46% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 30538, located in Eastanollee, Georgia, stands out within Stephens County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a total population of 3,081, the area has a relatively low rental rate of 13.8%, indicating that homeownership is prevalent among its residents. The median income in ZIP 30538 is $51,055, which places it above the national average, and the median home value is $259,950, suggesting a middle-class community with a stable housing market.
Moving into the specifics of Section 8 housing economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $970. This figure is notably higher than the current market rent of $819, based on Census American Community Survey (ACS) data. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should take note of this discrepancy, as it can translate into a financial advantage when accepting Section 8 vouchers. The higher FMR ensures that voucher holders can afford to live in areas where the market rent is lower, thereby potentially increasing demand for rental properties in ZIP 30538.
Given the data signature, ZIP 30538 appears to be a stable market. The relatively high median income supports a strong homeownership trend, while the difference between the FMR and the actual market rent suggests a favorable environment for landlords participating in the Section 8 program. However, the analysis also reveals a slight imbalance between the rental and ownership populations, which could indicate a transitional phase towards either increased rental activity or further consolidation of homeownership. For now, the data points to a stable community with room for growth in the rental sector for those willing to engage with Section 8 tenants.
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.