Location: Pulaski County, GA | Metro: Dodge 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 | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,554 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,879 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,973 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,020 | $125,304 | 0.81% | C |
| 3BR | $1,210 | $196,966 | 0.61% | D |
| 4BR | $1,340 | $269,601 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
In ZIP code 31023, which encompasses Eastman, GA, and Dodge County, the economics of Section 8 housing are quite straightforward. The SAFMR (Small Area Fair Market Rent) for a two-bedroom apartment in this specific ZIP code for fiscal year 2026 is set at $990. This figure represents the maximum amount that the housing authority will pay to landlords participating in the Section 8 program for a two-bedroom rental unit.
Comparatively, the local market rent for a two-bedroom unit, based on Census ACS data, is $735. This indicates that the SAFMR is higher than the average market rent, which can be beneficial for landlords who might otherwise receive less from private tenants.
The Section 8 voucher system operates by covering the difference between the tenant's contribution and the SAFMR. Tenants are required to pay 30% of their adjusted income towards rent. For example, if a tenant has an adjusted income of $1,000 per month, they would contribute $300 toward the rent. Additionally, there are utility allowances that vary but typically range from $200 to $300 per month, depending on the household size and location. These allowances are part of the total reimbursement package provided to landlords.
To illustrate, let’s assume a tenant contributes $300 and receives a utility allowance of $250. In this case, the total reimbursement to the landlord would be $550 ($300 tenant contribution + $250 utilities). Given the SAFMR of $990, the landlord would receive the remaining $440 directly from the housing authority. Therefore, the landlord is assured a minimum payment of $990 per month, which is above the local market rent.
However, it’s important to note that the actual reimbursement gap or surplus depends on the specific circumstances of each tenant. If we consider the average market rent of $735 and the SAFMR of $990, landlords in ZIP 31023 can expect a surplus of approximately $255 per month when renting a two-bedroom unit under the Section 8 program. This surplus provides a buffer against potential shortfalls and ensures a steady income stream.
For landlords, participating in the Section 8 program in ZIP 31023 offers financial stability and a guaranteed rent that exceeds the local market rate. It’s a reliable source of income that can help offset the costs associated with maintaining rental properties.
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.