Location: Sumter County, GA | Metro: Albany, 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 | $1,000 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,020 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,170 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,560 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,910 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,216 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,482 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,681 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,815 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,560 | $185,818 | 0.84% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors in ZIP code 31787, located in Sumter County, Georgia, reveals a detailed comparison between the HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. The HUD FMR for this area is set at $900 per month for the fiscal year 2024. In contrast, the Census American Community Survey (ACS) reports that the average market rent in this ZIP code is $1,005 per month.
This comparison indicates that properties rented at the HUD FMR will result in marginal cash flow for landlords. To achieve positive cash flow, landlords must focus on units with lower maintenance costs or higher efficiency. Alternatively, landlords can target premium units where the market rent exceeds the FMR, thus ensuring a better financial outcome.
The median home value in ZIP 31787 is $156,490. Using this figure, we can calculate the rent-to-price ratio. Given the HUD FMR of $900, the annual rent would be $10,800, resulting in a rent-to-price ratio of approximately 7%. This ratio suggests that rental income is relatively low compared to the purchase price, which could influence the decision-making process for potential investors considering whether to buy or rent.
The data shows that the median days on market (DOM) is not available, nor is the percentage of homes that experienced price cuts. However, these metrics are less critical when evaluating the strong rental market dynamics present in ZIP 31787.
The strongest angle for Section 8 investors in this ZIP code is stability. With a steady demand for affordable housing and a consistent FMR, investors can expect reliable and predictable cash flows, making it an attractive option for those seeking long-term, stable investments.
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.