Location: Berrien County, GA | Metro: Valdosta, 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 | $830 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,730 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,007 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,248 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,428 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,549 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,430 | $200,883 | 0.71% | D |
| 4BR | $1,730 | $313,422 | 0.55% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 31639 is situated in a suburban neighborhood characterized by a modest population size of 11,059 residents. The area has a notable rental segment, with 30.2% of its inhabitants being renters. The median household income in this region stands at $54,159, indicating a middle-class community. Median home values in ZIP 31639 are relatively accessible at $194,803, which makes it an attractive location for both homeowners and renters.
Moving into the specifics of rental economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2024 is set at $890. This figure is higher than the average market rent of $770 reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The discrepancy between the FMR and the market rent suggests a potential opportunity for landlords who can capitalize on the government-subsidized rents through the Section 8 program, as they might be able to charge closer to the FMR while still attracting tenants who qualify for assistance.
Given these economic conditions, ZIP 31639 could suit different types of investors. For those seeking a hands-off approach, the possibility of operating under Section 8 vouchers provides a stable income stream, albeit with some administrative overhead. On the other hand, for hands-on investors looking to add value, there is room to improve properties and potentially command rents closer to the FMR, thus increasing profitability beyond what the market currently offers.
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.