Location: Grand County, CO | Metro: Grand County, CO
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 | $1,370 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,460 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,840 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,190 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,610 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,028 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,391 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,662 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,845 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,840 | $427,544 | 0.43% | F |
| 3BR | $2,190 | $565,524 | 0.39% | F |
| 4BR | $2,610 | $637,653 | 0.41% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP 80459, Kremmling, Colorado, stands at $87,727. This figure is crucial when considering the local rental market dynamics. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) reports the market rate for rentals at $1,398. Given the median income, it's evident that a significant portion of households would struggle to afford market-rate rents without substantial disposable income.
To put this into perspective, let's compare the market rate to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) standards set for voucher payments, which amount to $1,390 for the fiscal year 2026. While the difference between the market rate and the FMR is minimal—only $8 per month—it underscores a critical point: the cost of living in Kremmling closely aligns with the financial assistance provided by housing vouchers.
Kremmling has a relatively low percentage of renters at 13.6%, with a total population of 2,569. This means that landlords face less competition from other property owners compared to more densely populated areas. However, the affordability gap between median income and market-rate rents suggests that many potential tenants may be reliant on government subsidies such as Section 8 vouchers to cover their housing costs.
For landlords, the takeaway is clear. Given the tight alignment between market rates and voucher payment standards, and the reliance of some tenants on financial assistance, it makes strategic sense to consider both voucher and cash-pay strategies. Landlords should evaluate the benefits of accepting Section 8 vouchers, including guaranteed monthly payments and a steady stream of tenants, against the potential for higher rents from cash-paying tenants who can afford the market rate. In a town where the median income barely covers the cost of living, diversifying tenant acquisition methods will likely yield better occupancy rates and financial stability.
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.