Location: Athens-Clarke 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 | $1,650 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,914 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,144 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,316 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,432 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,570 | $297,437 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 30630 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $900. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge a Section 8 tenant for rent. It's important to note that this is not necessarily the amount you will receive; it is the ceiling for your rental price under the program.
In comparison, the average rent for the same area, according to Census American Community Survey data, is $882. This indicates that the FMR is slightly above the market average, which could be beneficial if you're looking to cover higher costs associated with maintaining a property that meets Section 8 standards.
The 28.2% renter share in ZIP 30630 suggests there is a significant demand for rental properties. With nearly a third of the population renting, there is a good chance that you will have interested tenants. However, this also means competition among landlords, so ensuring your property stands out with quality maintenance and amenities is crucial.
The median home value in this area is approximately $277,844. This figure provides insight into the typical acquisition cost for a property in ZIP 30630. If you're planning to purchase a property for Section 8, you should expect to pay around this amount or more, depending on the condition and location of the property.
Before deciding to enter the Section 8 market, it's critical to verify that your property meets all the necessary requirements. Specifically, ensure that your property passes the Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection. This inspection checks for basic safety and habitability, including issues such as structural integrity, heating, plumbing, and electrical systems. Passing this inspection is non-negotiable and ensures you can participate in the program without risking eviction disputes or financial penalties.
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.