Location: Brunswick-St. Simons, GA | Metro: Brunswick-St. Simons, 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 | $1,490 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,670 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,070 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,910 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,376 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,781 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,083 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,287 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,670 | $317,961 | 0.53% | F |
| 2BR | $2,070 | $402,370 | 0.51% | F |
| 3BR | $2,470 | $639,651 | 0.39% | F |
| 4BR | $2,910 | $1,037,186 | 0.28% | F |
| 5BR | $3,376 | $1,755,707 | 0.19% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 31522, located in Saint Simons Island, Georgia, presents an interesting balance between yield and stability for real-estate investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,710, which is notably lower than the market rent of $2,439. This suggests that there is potential for higher rental yields if properties can be leased at market rates. However, the median home value stands at $688,186, indicating a relatively expensive market entry point.
On the stability axis, the data reveals a mixed picture. Only 15.2% of residents are renters, which is a low percentage and implies a smaller pool of potential tenants. Additionally, the days on market (DOM) average is 69 days, suggesting that properties may take longer to rent out compared to more active rental markets. On a positive note, the median household income is $108,632, providing some assurance that tenants will have the financial capability to meet their rental obligations.
Given these factors, ZIP 31522 does not fit neatly into either a high-yield/low-stability "flip-style" market or a steady-cashflow zone. Instead, it occupies a middle ground. The lower FMR relative to market rent indicates potential for higher yields, but the high median home value means that initial investment costs are significant. The low percentage of renters and longer DOM suggest less stability and potentially more difficulty in finding tenants quickly. However, the robust median income supports tenant reliability once they are secured.
To conclude, while there is room for above-average returns in this market, investors must also be prepared for a slower turnover rate and a smaller tenant pool. These characteristics make ZIP 31522 a moderate-risk, moderate-reward area for real-estate investment.
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.