Location: Lincoln County, CO | Metro: Crowley 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 | $1,070 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,100 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,710 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,230 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,587 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,897 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,129 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,285 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,440 | $118,376 | 1.22% | A |
| 3BR | $1,710 | $179,978 | 0.95% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 81063, located in Ordway, Colorado, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The median income for households in this area stands at $49,375 according to the latest Census ACS data. Given the market rate rent of $995, it becomes evident that the financial burden on renters is significant. However, this figure is still below the Fair Market Rent (FMR) standard set at $1,310 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026.
To put this into perspective, a household earning the median income would spend approximately 20 percent of their monthly income on rent at the market rate. This is a substantial portion but remains within the generally accepted threshold for affordable housing. Yet, the disparity between the market rate and the FMR highlights a critical issue: the affordability gap. With only 35.2 percent of the 2,783 population being renters, landlords must be mindful of the competition they face in attracting tenants.
The takeaway for landlords considering whether to accept vouchers or focus on cash-paying tenants is clear. While the FMR at $1,310 exceeds the market rate, it also suggests that voucher holders could potentially pay higher rents than those currently available. Landlords who adapt their properties to meet the requirements for voucher acceptance might find themselves with a steady stream of tenants who can reliably cover the rent through government assistance. Conversely, landlords who prioritize cash-paying tenants should ensure their rental rates remain competitive within the local market, ideally below the $995 mark to attract a larger pool of potential renters.
In summary, the current economic landscape in ZIP 81063 means that landlords have to carefully weigh the benefits of accepting vouchers against the reliability of cash-paying tenants. By understanding these dynamics, landlords can make informed decisions that benefit both their investment and the community.
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.