Location: Routt County, CO | Metro: Moffat County, CO
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,630 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,700 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,380 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,070 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,561 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,988 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,307 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,522 |
The ZIP code 81653 presents an interesting scenario when analyzing rental affordability from a renter's perspective. The median income for this area is currently not available, which makes it challenging to assess the financial health of the typical household. However, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,710 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 provides a benchmark against which we can measure affordability.
With the market rate also listed as N/A, it's evident that there's limited data on the actual rental costs in 81653. This lack of data could indicate either a very localized rental market or a scarcity of recent rental listings. Regardless, the comparison to the FMR of $1,710 suggests that landlords should aim to keep their rents at or below this figure to attract tenants who might be utilizing housing vouchers.
The percentage of renters and the total population are also marked as N/A, which further complicates the analysis. However, understanding the competition among landlords is crucial. If the local rental market is tight and rents are generally higher than the FMR, then voucher holders will have fewer options, potentially increasing demand for properties that accept them. Conversely, if the market rate is close to or below the FMR, landlords may face less pressure to accept vouchers since cash-paying tenants might be more abundant and willing to pay market rates.
The takeaway for landlords considering whether to accept voucher tenants or focus on cash-paying ones is that the FMR of $1,710 serves as a critical price point. Landlords who can offer rents at or slightly above this level may attract both voucher and cash-paying tenants, thereby diversifying their tenant base. However, those who set their rents significantly higher risk limiting their potential tenant pool to only those without the need for assistance, which may not be sufficient to fill vacancies in a competitive market.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027).
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.