Location: Garfield County, CO | Metro: Garfield 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 | $1,370 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,530 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,730 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,740 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,178 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,559 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,844 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,036 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,530 | $398,339 | 0.38% | F |
| 2BR | $1,970 | $555,070 | 0.35% | F |
| 3BR | $2,730 | $871,330 | 0.31% | F |
| 4BR | $2,740 | $1,105,615 | 0.25% | F |
| 5BR | $3,178 | $1,428,458 | 0.22% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Glenwood Springs, located in ZIP code 81601 of Garfield County, Colorado, stands out due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 16,844 residents, Glenwood Springs has a rental rate of 35.6%, slightly above the national average. The median household income in the area is $109,129, which is significantly higher than the national median, indicating a relatively affluent community. However, the median home value of $868,748 suggests that homeownership is a significant expense, likely contributing to the substantial rental market presence.
The voucher economics in Glenwood Springs reveal an interesting dynamic. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,710, whereas the actual market rent, as measured by ZORI (Zillow Observed Rent Index), is $2,578. This discrepancy means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect to receive less than the market rate for their properties. Despite this, the program remains attractive due to the guaranteed payments and the stability it provides.
Based on the data signature, Glenwood Springs appears to be a stable market. The high median income supports a strong rental demand, and while the median home value is high, the rental rates suggest that there is a viable alternative for those who cannot afford homeownership. The gap between FMR and market rent indicates that landlords should carefully consider the financial implications of accepting Section 8 vouchers, but the overall economic health of the area supports continued investment in rental properties.
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.