Location: La Plata County, CO | Metro: La Plata 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 | $1,090 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,070 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,401 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,689 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,904 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,049 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,440 | $488,800 | 0.29% | F |
| 3BR | $1,750 | $720,577 | 0.24% | F |
| 4BR | $2,070 | $992,939 | 0.21% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market in ZIP 81326, Hesperus, CO, reveals a dynamic equilibrium between supply and demand, leaning slightly towards demand pressure given the snapshot of current conditions. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1,440 for fiscal year 2026, while the actual market rent, as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS), stands at $1,332. This indicates that rents are trending upwards, aligning closely with the FMR, which is often a benchmark for affordable housing programs like Section 8.
The median home value in Hesperus is $626,080, reflecting a significant investment in residential properties. However, the lack of data on price-cut share and days on market (DOM) suggests that there is no immediate oversupply or discounting activity that would typically indicate a sluggish market. Instead, the absence of these metrics implies stability, with neither a glut nor scarcity of homes driving prices down or up dramatically.
A key factor in understanding the market dynamics is the 13.9% renter share. This relatively low percentage of renters compared to homeowners points to a community where ownership is preferred and common. Yet, it also signals a potential long-term housing pressure. As the population grows or changes, the limited number of rental units could lead to increased competition among renters, pushing rents higher. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should prepare for a market that may experience gradual upward pressure on rental prices due to the low renter share, which could become more pronounced as the demand for rentals increases.
In summary, the current snapshot of the Hesperus market shows a balanced yet potentially evolving scenario. Rents are approaching FMR levels, indicating a steady rise, and the median home value reflects a solid investment base. The low renter share suggests a homeowner-centric community but also points to a future where rental demand might grow, affecting the dynamics of the local real estate market.
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.