Location: Montrose County, CO | Metro: Montrose County, CO
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $800 |
| 1 Bedroom | $810 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,060 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,053 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,299 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,483 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,607 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 81422 in the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,040. This figure represents the payment standard for landlords participating in the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program. It's important to note that this is not the amount you can charge for rent; rather, it's the maximum subsidy amount the government will pay on behalf of eligible tenants.
To put this into perspective, the average rent for the same ZIP code, according to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey, is $894. This indicates that the FMR is higher than the typical market rate, which could be advantageous for landlords looking to cover costs and potentially earn a profit.
The 12.0% renter share in ZIP 81422 suggests a moderate demand for rental properties. While not a high percentage, it still represents a significant portion of the population who would benefit from and potentially seek out Section 8 housing options.
If you're considering purchasing a property to use as a Section 8 rental, the median home value in the area is approximately $206,494. This figure can help you estimate your initial investment cost and evaluate the potential return on investment based on the FMR and average rent.
A key factor to verify before proceeding is the condition of the property. The Housing Quality Standards (HQS) established by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) must be met. These standards ensure that the property is safe and habitable, and failure to comply can result in penalties or disqualification from the program.
In summary, the FMR of $1,040 provides a benchmark for subsidies, exceeding the local average rent of $894. With a 12.0% renter share and median home values around $206,494, there is a reasonable opportunity for landlords to enter the Section 8 market. However, ensuring the property meets HQS is essential to avoid any issues once you've made the investment.
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.