Location: Las Animas County, CO | Metro: Las Animas County, CO
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $960 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,000 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,620 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,720 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,995 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,234 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,413 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,534 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rental market in ZIP 81027 presents a dynamic landscape that reflects the ongoing balance between supply and demand. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,160 for the fiscal year 2026, this figure represents the benchmark established by HUD for determining eligibility and payment standards for Section 8 housing assistance. In contrast, the current market rent, as reported by the Census ACS, stands at $775, indicating a substantial gap between the subsidized rate and what the market naturally demands.
This discrepancy suggests that demand for affordable housing in ZIP 81027 may be outpacing supply, particularly when considering the significant portion of residents who are renters. The 37.7% renter share points to a considerable segment of the population that relies on the rental market, which can exert continuous pressure on housing availability and affordability. This high percentage of renters often implies a persistent need for rental properties, as fewer households are homeowners and thus more likely to seek rental options.
The lack of specific data on price-cut share and days on market (DOM) makes it challenging to pinpoint exact trends in property turnover or pricing adjustments. However, the absence of these metrics could indicate a stable market where neither landlords nor tenants are frequently forced into negotiations that require price concessions. Similarly, without a median home value, it's difficult to assess the broader housing market, but the focus on rental dynamics suggests that the area might prioritize rental properties over sales.
In summary, ZIP 81027 appears to be a market where demand for affordable rentals is robust, driven by a significant renter population. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the potential for steady occupancy rates and the strategic positioning of properties near the $775 market rent level to attract Section 8 tenants while staying below the $1,160 FMR threshold. The market dynamics favor those who can provide quality rental units at competitive prices, ensuring a consistent flow of interested tenants.
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.