Location: Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO | Metro: Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO MSA
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 | $1,610 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,680 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,990 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,610 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,920 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,387 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,793 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,096 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,301 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,680 | $255,259 | 0.66% | D |
| 2BR | $1,990 | $439,411 | 0.45% | F |
| 3BR | $2,610 | $580,389 | 0.45% | F |
| 4BR | $2,920 | $733,236 | 0.4% | F |
| 5BR | $3,387 | $846,064 | 0.4% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market in ZIP 80120, encompassing Littleton, CO, is characterized by a robust rental sector with a strong presence of homeowners. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $1,900 for fiscal year 2024, is notably higher than the actual market rent, which stands at $1,780 according to ZORI. This suggests that the rental market is competitive but not overpriced relative to what the government deems fair.
A key indicator of the market's dynamics is the low price-cut share of 0.3%, indicating that landlords are generally not having to reduce rents to attract tenants. Furthermore, the days on market (DOM) for rental listings is a mere 11 days, which is a sign of brisk activity and quick turnover in the rental market. This rapid cycle implies a high level of demand for rental properties, supporting the notion that renters are finding units swiftly.
The median home value in the area is $613,945, a figure that reflects a stable and potentially growing real estate market. With a significant 37.8% of residents being renters, it becomes evident that there is substantial long-term housing pressure. This high percentage of renters can be indicative of several factors: a young workforce, transient populations, or individuals who prefer renting over buying due to the cost of homeownership or lifestyle choices.
The dynamics of this market suggest that demand for rentals is steady, if not slightly outpacing supply. Homeowners are likely seeing their property values remain stable or increase, given the strong rental market and the overall economic conditions in Littleton. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, this means a consistent environment for generating rental income, with little need to adjust pricing downwards to attract tenants.
In summary, ZIP 80120 presents a market where the rental sector is vibrant and responsive to demand, while homeowners enjoy a stable valuation of their assets. The high renter share points towards sustained pressure on the housing market, favoring those who invest in rental properties over those who might be considering selling their homes.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.