Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 39819 - 2027

Location: Decatur County, GA | Metro: Decatur County, GA

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

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

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Population
12,140
Median Household Income
$55,426
Housing Units
5,868
Renter Percentage
37.3%
Occupancy Rate
84.3%
Renter Occupied
1,843

The market analysis for Section 8 investors in ZIP code 39819, located in Decatur County, GA metro, reveals several key insights. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $970 for fiscal year 2026. This figure is higher than the market rent of $797, based on Census ACS data. Given these numbers, landlords can expect to cashflow positively with voucher tenants at the FMR rate, especially considering that the market rent is significantly lower.

To further analyze the investment potential, the median home value in ZIP 39819 is $187,659. Using this figure, we can calculate the rent-to-price ratio. With an average market rent of $797, the annual rent would be approximately $9,564. Dividing this by the median home value gives us a rent-to-price ratio of about 5.1%, indicating that rental income could be a substantial portion of the property's value.

The data also shows that the median Days on Market (DOM) is N/A, and the share of properties that have experienced price cuts is 0.2%. These statistics suggest a stable housing market where properties are selling close to their listed prices, which is favorable for both buying and renting dynamics. However, the lack of DOM data means there is limited insight into how quickly properties are turning over in the rental market.

In conclusion, the strongest angle for investors in ZIP 39819 is likely cashflow. The difference between the HUD FMR and the actual market rent provides a significant opportunity for positive cashflow, especially when considering the relatively low median home values and the minimal impact of price cuts on the overall market. This makes it an attractive location for Section 8 investors seeking reliable returns.

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.