Location: Las Animas County, CO | Metro: Las Animas County, CO
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 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)
ZIP code 81020, located within Las Animas County, CO, presents a unique scenario when compared against typical ZIP codes within the same county. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 81020 stands at $1,010 for fiscal year 2026, which is notably higher than the average market rent of $836. This suggests that while the government considers the fair market rent to be $1,010, the actual market rent is lower, indicating a potential value pocket for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The lack of available data on home values in ZIP 81020 makes direct comparisons difficult; however, the significant disparity between the FMR and the market rent can be an important indicator. In many cases, a high FMR with a lower market rent can signal areas where Section 8 housing vouchers are particularly useful, as they may cover more of the rent than in other regions. This characteristic, combined with the 18.6% renter share, points towards ZIP 81020 being a sweet spot for Section 8 investments. Typically, a higher percentage of renters in a community can indicate greater demand for affordable housing options, making it an attractive area for properties that accept Section 8 tenants.
To further contextualize ZIP 81020 within the Las Animas County, CO, metro, consider the following:
The combination of a high FMR relative to market rents and a substantial renter share without specific data on home values implies that ZIP 81020 could represent a valuable opportunity for those looking to invest in Section 8 properties. This ZIP code appears to be a value pocket within the larger Las Animas County, CO, metro, offering conditions that are advantageous for both landlords and low-income tenants seeking affordable housing solutions.
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.