Location: Augusta-Richmond County, GA | Metro: Augusta-Richmond County, GA-SC 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 | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $990 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,090 | $113,401 | 0.96% | C |
| 3BR | $1,370 | $191,789 | 0.71% | D |
| 4BR | $1,670 | $328,675 | 0.51% | F |
| 5BR | $1,937 | $404,603 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 30830, located in Waynesboro, GA, is a prime location for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to attract Section 8 tenants. With a population of 15,313, nearly 38.5% of residents are renters, indicating a significant portion of the market that could benefit from housing vouchers. The median household income stands at $53,385, which provides a baseline for understanding the economic context of potential tenants.
The average market rent in this area is $815, which represents approximately 15.3% of the median household income. This percentage suggests that typical rent is relatively affordable compared to the local income levels. However, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $920 for FY 2024, indicating a slight gap between the market rent and the government's benchmark for affordability. This difference means that landlords who can offer units at or below the $920 FMR threshold may be more competitive in attracting voucher holders.
In Waynesboro, the high percentage of renters points to a robust demand for rental properties, especially those that can accommodate Section 8 vouchers. Given the economic profile, landlords should expect tenants who are likely to be sensitive to cost and may require assistance to meet their housing needs. These tenants are typically low-income families, individuals with disabilities, or elderly residents who rely on federal subsidies to afford housing.
To summarize, ZIP 30830 presents itself as a renter-heavy market with strong potential for Section 8 voucher utilization. Landlords should prepare to cater to a diverse group of tenants who benefit from rental assistance programs, ensuring their properties meet the necessary requirements to participate in such programs. Offering units at or slightly below the FMR will maximize the chances of securing long-term, stable tenants through the voucher system.
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.