Location: Camden County, GA | Metro: Camden 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 | $1,110 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,240 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,870 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,190 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,540 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,073 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,227 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,350 | $219,589 | 0.61% | D |
| 3BR | $1,870 | $280,527 | 0.67% | D |
| 4BR | $2,190 | $378,017 | 0.58% | F |
| 5BR | $2,540 | $394,550 | 0.64% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 31558, located in Saint Marys, GA, presents a unique scenario when classified based on yield and stability for real estate investment. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,300, while the local market rent is higher at $1,496. This indicates a potential for above-average rental yields compared to the broader metro area.
However, the median home value of $309,025 suggests that the cost of entry into this market is relatively high. When considering the FMR and market rent against the median home value, the potential yield becomes evident. A property valued at $309,025 could generate an annual rental income of approximately $18,000 based on the metro FMR, or $18,000 annually based on the local market rent, which represents a 5.8% and 5.8% yield respectively. These figures suggest a moderate yield opportunity.
On the stability axis, the data points towards a somewhat stable market. With 41.2% of residents being renters, there is a reasonable demand for rental properties. Additionally, the 44-day days-on-market (DOM) figure indicates that properties are typically occupied relatively quickly, which is positive for cash flow continuity. The median household income of $74,268 supports the ability of tenants to pay rent, further enhancing the stability of rental income.
Given these metrics, ZIP 31558 is best classified as a steady-cashflow zone rather than a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market. The combination of a moderate rental yield and indicators of tenant stability such as the DOM and median income point towards a market where long-term rental investments can provide consistent returns without the high risk associated with flipping properties.
To summarize, the rental market in Saint Marys, GA, offers a balanced opportunity with a moderate yield driven by market rents exceeding the metro FMR, and stability supported by a significant portion of renters and a strong local economy capable of sustaining rental payments.
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.