Location: Gilmer County, 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 | $800 |
| 1 Bedroom | $810 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,300 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,937 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,169 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,343 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,460 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $810 | $176,074 | 0.46% | F |
| 2BR | $1,000 | $348,387 | 0.29% | F |
| 3BR | $1,300 | $420,389 | 0.31% | F |
| 4BR | $1,670 | $545,396 | 0.31% | F |
| 5BR | $1,937 | $632,431 | 0.31% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 30540, located in Ellijay, GA, has a population of 20,582, with 21.1% of residents being renters. The median household income in this area is $72,578. Given these figures, it's clear that while there is a notable rental market, it is not dominated by renters; rather, homeownership is more prevalent.
The typical market rent for ZIP 30540 stands at $956. This represents approximately 13.2% of the median household income, calculated by dividing the rent by the median income and multiplying by 100. In comparison, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $910 for fiscal year 2024, is slightly lower than the market rent, indicating that rents in this ZIP code are above the federal guideline but still relatively affordable.
The demand for housing vouchers, such as those provided through Section 8, can be inferred from the percentage of renters and the median income level. With only 21.1% of the population renting, the voucher demand is likely to be moderate rather than high. Landlords in this area should anticipate tenants who may rely on vouchers, but the overall number will not be overwhelming.
The tenant profile in ZIP 30540 is diverse, with a mix of individuals and families seeking affordable housing options. While some tenants might use Section 8 vouchers, many others are likely to pay market rates, especially given the relatively low cost of rent compared to the median income. Landlords should prepare for a tenant base that includes both voucher users and those paying out-of-pocket, with an emphasis on ensuring properties meet the necessary standards for voucher acceptance.
In summary, ZIP 30540 is not heavily reliant on rental housing, but it does have a substantial enough tenant pool to support Section 8 participation. Rents are higher than the FMR, yet still manageable for most households. Expect a balanced mix of tenants, with some utilizing vouchers to cover their housing costs.
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.