Location: Hart 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,200 | $174,525 | 0.69% | D |
| 3BR | $1,570 | $270,415 | 0.58% | F |
| 4BR | $1,650 | $351,416 | 0.47% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 30662, located in Royston, GA, and part of the Hart County, GA metro area, reveals several key points that are crucial for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The first question addresses whether the rent math works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the zip code in fiscal year 2024 is set at $910, while the market rent, as measured by the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), stands at $1,325. This indicates that landlords can potentially charge a premium over the FMR, making it financially viable to rent properties in this area.
The second question concerns the affordability of property acquisition. With a median home value of $270,474, the cost of acquiring a property is moderate. However, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the low 0.3% price-cut share suggest that homes are selling quickly and without significant price reductions, indicating a strong seller's market where properties are likely to be purchased close to their asking price.
The third question examines tenant demand. The population of ZIP 30662 is 7,950, with 27.0% of residents being renters. This suggests a moderate demand for rental properties, though the relatively small population size means that the number of potential tenants is limited.
In conclusion, ZIP 30662 presents a scenario where the rent math is favorable due to the disparity between FMR and market rents. However, the median home value and quick sales indicate that property acquisition might be challenging and expensive. Tenant demand is present but constrained by the small population size. For investors, the decision to enter this market should weigh the ability to charge higher rents against the costs of property acquisition and the limited pool of potential 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.