Location: Decatur County, GA | Metro: Decatur County, GA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $790 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,531 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,715 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,852 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,945 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 market analysis for ZIP code 39817 in Decatur County, GA, reveals a favorable environment for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $970 for fiscal year 2026, which exceeds the current market rent of $840 based on Census ACS data. This means that voucher tenants will generally cashflow positively at the HUD FMR rate, providing a reliable source of income for property owners.
To further analyze the investment potential, consider the median home value in the area, which stands at $158,124. Using this figure, we can calculate a rent-to-price ratio of approximately 0.53%, indicating that rental properties in this ZIP code are relatively undervalued compared to their sale price. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to invest in real estate where rental income can contribute significantly to overall returns.
The dynamics between renting and buying in this market also support the viability of rental investments. With a median Days on Market (DOM) of N/A and a negligible 0.2% share of homes making price cuts, the housing market shows stability and low competition among sellers. This suggests that the demand for rental properties is likely to remain steady, providing consistent cash flow for investors.
In conclusion, the strongest investor angle in ZIP code 39817 is cashflow. The positive difference between HUD FMR and market rent ensures that voucher tenants will cover expenses and provide profit margins without requiring premium units. This creates a solid foundation for long-term investment success.
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.