Location: Columbus, GA | Metro: Columbus, GA-AL HUD Metro FMR Area
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $900 |
| 1 Bedroom | $920 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,060 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,640 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,902 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,300 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,415 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 36858 stands out due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With only 303 residents, it is one of the smallest communities in the county. Despite its size, 35.4% of the population rents their homes, indicating a significant demand for rental properties. The median home value in ZIP 36858 is exceptionally high at $199,866, which suggests that homeownership is relatively expensive and likely reserved for those with higher incomes. However, the median income for this ZIP code is listed as N/A, implying that there is limited data available regarding the income levels of its residents.
Moving to the voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 36858 is set at $900 for fiscal year 2024. This figure is notably lower than the Census-reported market rent of $946, suggesting that landlords participating in the Section 8 program will receive slightly less than the average market rate for comparable units. Given the high median home value and the relatively low FMR, it's important for landlords to consider the overall cost structure of maintaining and managing rental properties in this area. While the difference between the FMR and market rent is modest, it could impact profitability depending on the expenses associated with property upkeep and other operational costs.
The data signature for ZIP 36858 can be interpreted as "stable." The high median home value indicates a potentially affluent neighborhood, while the low but steady FMR reflects a controlled approach to housing assistance. The lack of median income data might suggest some variability in the resident population, but the established rental percentage and home values point toward a consistent environment where landlords can expect predictable occupancy rates and a steady flow of tenants interested in both market-rate and subsidized housing options.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.