Location: Irwin County, GA | Metro: Berrien 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 | $840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $850 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,060 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,775 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,988 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,147 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,254 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,060 | $82,412 | 1.29% | A |
| 3BR | $1,260 | $150,613 | 0.84% | C |
| 4BR | $1,530 | $280,218 | 0.55% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 31774, located in Ocilla, Georgia, is situated within the broader Irwin County, GA metro area. Its Fair Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,060, which is notably higher than the average market rent of $863 observed in the area. This discrepancy suggests that 31774 could be considered a slightly above-average rental market within its metro context, leaning towards a mid-tier neighborhood status.
A further comparison can be made through the median home value of $133,027, which is relatively low compared to what might be expected in a premium sub-market. However, the high percentage of renters at 36.0% indicates a significant demand for rental properties, a characteristic often associated with areas that attract Section 8 housing vouchers. Given the combination of a high renter share and lower-than-metro average home values, 31774 emerges as a potential value pocket for landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in the Section 8 program. The lower home values make it easier for voucher holders to find suitable housing, while the higher FMR compared to market rent implies that there may be opportunities for landlords to receive higher subsidies without significantly increasing their asking price.
In summary, Ocilla's ZIP code 31774 stands out as a mid-tier neighborhood with a strong inclination towards being a value pocket within the Irwin County, GA metro. It offers a balance between manageable property costs and a favorable environment for Section 8 tenants, making it an attractive option for those looking to invest in rental properties.
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.