Location: Rabun County, GA | Metro: Rabun 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 | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,590 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,844 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,065 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,230 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,342 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,030 | $301,990 | 0.34% | F |
| 3BR | $1,430 | $370,034 | 0.39% | F |
| 4BR | $1,590 | $470,763 | 0.34% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 30568 in Rabun County, Georgia, reveals a mixed picture for potential landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The rent math partially works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1,010 for fiscal year 2026, which is slightly above the current market rent of $976 as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). This suggests that while there is room to increase rents, it would be prudent to align closely with the FMR to ensure competitiveness and occupancy rates.
Acquisition affordability is moderate. With a median home value of $363,219, purchasing properties in this ZIP code can be challenging for smaller investors. However, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that have had their prices cut indicates that the housing market might be stable, without significant fluctuations that could impact property values negatively.
Tenant demand is relatively low given the small population size of 2,133 and a renter share of 21.8%. This means that only about 463 residents are likely to be seeking rental accommodation. While the demand exists, it is limited, which could pose challenges for maintaining a full portfolio of rental units.
In summary, ZIP 30568 offers a modest opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The slight margin between FMR and market rent allows for reasonable pricing, but the limited tenant pool and moderate acquisition costs mean that careful consideration is necessary before investing. Success in this market will depend on strategic property selection and pricing, as well as an understanding of the local rental dynamics.
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.