Location: Baker County, GA | Metro: Baker County, GA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $800 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,682 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,884 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,035 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,137 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis for the Section 8 program in ZIP code 39870 reveals a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $970 and the actual market rent of $626, as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). This discrepancy amounts to a difference of $344 per month, or approximately 35.5% of the FMR.
The FMR being higher than the market rent suggests an opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors to capitalize on the yield potential of voucher tenants. With voucher holders paying up to $970, which exceeds the current market rate, property owners can achieve a higher rental income compared to what they would receive from non-voucher tenants. This makes the ZIP code an attractive investment area, particularly for those looking to maximize returns.
In ZIP 39870, where 30.0% of residents are renters, the median home value stands at $131,955, and the median income is $50,938. Given these figures, the gap between FMR and market rent indicates that voucher tenants can provide a stable and above-average rental income. The higher FMR allows landlords to charge rents that are closer to the economic reality of the region, without placing an undue burden on tenants who might otherwise struggle to afford housing.
However, it's important to note that accepting Section 8 vouchers also comes with certain responsibilities and regulations. Landlords must ensure their properties meet HUD standards and be prepared for regular inspections. Despite these requirements, the financial benefit of renting to voucher holders, especially in areas where market rents are lower than FMR, can outweigh the administrative costs.
To summarize, the gap between the FMR and the actual market rent in ZIP 39870 presents a clear yield advantage for landlords willing to participate in the Section 8 program. This ZIP code's demographic context supports the viability of such investments, making it a strategic choice for real estate investors aiming to leverage government assistance programs for better 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.