Location: Webster County, GA | Metro: Sumter 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 | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,682 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,884 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,035 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,137 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,260 | $118,116 | 1.07% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 31780 in metro FY 2026 is set at $990. This figure represents the payment standard for Section 8 participants, meaning it is the maximum amount the Housing Choice Voucher program will pay towards your tenant's rent. However, it does not dictate the rent you can charge; it simply caps the subsidy.
To put this into perspective, the average rent in ZIP 31780 is currently around $750, according to recent Census American Community Survey (ACS) data. This indicates that the FMR is higher than the typical market rate, potentially offering a financial cushion for landlords participating in the Section 8 program.
The 15.5% share of renters in the area suggests a moderate demand for rental properties, particularly those within the budget constraints of Section 8 participants. Given the FMR and the local average rent, there is a reasonable pool of potential tenants who could benefit from the voucher program.
When considering acquiring a property for Section 8, the median home value in ZIP 31780 is approximately $110,184. This figure reflects the acquisition cost of a typical home in the area, which should be factored into your investment calculations.
Before proceeding with your first Section 8 rental, it is crucial to verify the condition of the property against the Housing Quality Standards (HQS). These standards ensure that the property meets basic safety and habitability requirements, and failing to comply can result in reduced payments or termination of the lease agreement.
In summary, the FMR of $990 provides a benchmark for the subsidy you can expect, while the local average rent of $750 offers insight into the market conditions. With a 15.5% renter share, there is a steady demand for affordable housing, and the median home value of $110,184 gives an indication of the investment cost. Ensure the property meets HQS to avoid complications once you've signed up for the program.
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.