Location: Flathead County, MT | Metro: Flathead County, MT
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 | $1,280 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,280 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,680 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,620 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,039 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,404 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,676 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,860 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,680 | $536,199 | 0.31% | F |
| 3BR | $2,260 | $612,740 | 0.37% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 59913, encompassing Columbia Falls, Montana, presents a unique snapshot of the real estate market that can be interpreted as being in motion. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,480 for the fiscal year 2026, the area indicates a clear focus on homeownership rather than renting, given the 0.0% renter share. This statistic suggests that the community leans heavily towards owner-occupied homes, which can imply less immediate rental demand but also points to long-term stability and potentially lower turnover rates.
The median home value of $553,562 stands as a significant marker for the local economy and property values. However, without specific market rent figures or the percentage of homes needing price cuts to sell, it's challenging to definitively state whether supply currently outpaces demand or vice versa. The lack of data on days on market (DOM) also means we cannot assess the speed at which homes are selling, a key indicator of market health and balance.
The absence of rental market dynamics might indicate a strong preference for homeownership among residents, reducing short-term pressures on the housing market. This could mean that any fluctuations in the market would likely be driven by changes in homeownership affordability and desirability, rather than rental trends. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should take note of the FMR trend, which could signal future adjustments in rental pricing if the area shifts towards a more balanced mix of renters and owners.
In summary, ZIP 59913 appears to be a market where homeownership is dominant, and the lack of rental data suggests a stable, owner-focused environment. The FMR and median home value provide insights into the economic landscape, indicating that while the market may not be under immediate rental pressure, it remains dynamic and subject to broader economic influences.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.