Location: Garfield County, CO | Metro: Grand Junction, CO MSA
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 | $1,100 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,110 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,010 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,160 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,506 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,807 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,032 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,184 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,010 | $445,430 | 0.45% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 81630, located within Garfield County, CO, presents a unique profile when compared to typical ZIP codes in the same county. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 81630 is set at $1180 for fiscal year 2024, which is notably higher than the market rent figure of $996. This indicates that while the government's estimate for affordable housing is higher, actual rents charged by private landlords are lower, potentially offering an opportunity for landlords participating in the Section 8 program.
The median home value in ZIP 81630 stands at $416,865, which aligns closely with the broader county averages. However, the renter share in 81630 is 19.5%, slightly above the average for Garfield County, suggesting a modest preference for renting over owning homes in this area.
An analysis of these figures suggests that ZIP 81630 could be considered a mid-tier neighborhood within its metro. The higher FMR compared to market rent might attract tenants who qualify for Section 8 subsidies, but the relatively standard home values indicate it's neither a value pocket nor a premium sub-market. The elevated renter share, however, does point to a potential sweet spot for Section 8 properties, as it signals a higher concentration of renters in an area where home ownership is still prevalent.
To further substantiate this inference, a comparison with other ZIP codes in Garfield County would be necessary. However, based on the provided data, ZIP 81630 offers a balanced environment for both landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in Section 8 participation. It provides a reasonable rental income opportunity without the extreme pricing characteristics of either value pockets or premium sub-markets.
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.