Location: Moffat County, CO | Metro: Moffat County, CO
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $830 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,120 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,820 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,111 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,364 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,553 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,681 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis for the Section 8 program in ZIP code 81610 is centered around the disparity between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2026, the FMR stands at $1,080, while the Census ACS reports the market rent at $974. This indicates that the FMR is higher than the market rent by $106, which translates to an 11% premium.
This gap makes the area a favorable yield play for landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers. The government's willingness to pay a rate above what the market demands ensures a steady and reliable income stream. Landlords can capitalize on this situation by securing rental properties at the lower market rate and receiving the higher FMR rate through the voucher program. This effectively shields them from the risks associated with fluctuating market rents and tenant defaults.
The percentage of renters in the area is 26.7%, indicating a significant portion of the population relies on rental housing. While the median home value is not available, the median income of $51,105 provides insight into the economic profile of residents. Given this income level, many potential tenants would find it challenging to afford market-rate rents without assistance, making the Section 8 program particularly relevant.
However, accepting Section 8 vouchers also comes with its own set of considerations. Despite the higher FMR rate, landlords must be prepared for the possibility of slower payment cycles due to the bureaucratic nature of the program. Additionally, there might be limitations on rent increases and stricter maintenance requirements, which could affect long-term profitability. Nonetheless, the premium of $106 per month over the market rate makes this a compelling opportunity for landlords looking to secure a consistent and above-market rental income.
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.