Location: Wilkinson County, GA | Metro: Macon-Bibb County, GA 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 | $980 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,050 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,027 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,189 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,298 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,420 | $102,299 | 1.39% | A |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 31044, located in Wilkinson County, Georgia, offers a unique opportunity for inclusion within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This area is best suited as a cash-flow anchor.
The primary reason for this classification is the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rental rates. According to the data for fiscal year 2024, the FMR for ZIP 31044 is set at $920. However, the average market rental rate stands at $671. This discrepancy provides a landlord with a guaranteed higher income when participating in the Section 8 program, effectively anchoring the cash flow.
In addition to the favorable rental rate spread, the median home value in ZIP 31044 is relatively low at $98,923. This makes property acquisition more accessible for investors, particularly those looking to enter the market with limited capital. The lower home values also suggest that the cost of maintaining and managing properties will be less burdensome compared to areas with higher property values.
While ZIP 31044 does not present itself as an immediate appreciation play due to the lack of significant price increases or rapid turnover times, it does offer a stable base for an investment portfolio. The 18.2% renter share indicates a moderate demand for rental properties, which can be met through the Section 8 program. Furthermore, the median income of $35,152 aligns well with the affordability of Section 8 rents, ensuring a steady tenant population who can reliably pay their portion of the rent.
Investors should focus on acquiring properties in ZIP 31044 to secure a reliable cash flow. The difference between the FMR and market rates guarantees a higher income stream, while the lower median home value ensures manageable acquisition costs and maintenance expenses. This combination makes ZIP 31044 an ideal cash-flow anchor within a diversified Section 8 portfolio strategy.
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.