Cost of Living in Larimer County, Colorado
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Larimer County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Larimer County ranks #2,504 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 20%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Larimer County, Colorado
Larimer rents strain Colorado's front range
Larimer County residents spend 22.0% of household income on rent, exceeding both Colorado's 20.2% average and the national norm, despite strong median income of $91,364. The front-range housing crunch has pushed Larimer's affordability above state and national benchmarks.
Among Colorado's tighter housing markets
Larimer's 22.0% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Colorado's least affordable counties, driven by Fort Collins' popularity and limited housing supply. The county's strong income base ($91,364) provides some cushion, but housing costs remain a notable household burden statewide.
Front range premium hits Larimer hard
Larimer's median rent of $1,677/month runs $424 above Colorado's state average, reflecting proximity to Denver and Fort Collins' tech-hub status. The median home value of $532,200 places Larimer among the state's pricier markets, closer to Boulder-level than rural peers.
Ownership steeper than renting here
Owners pay $1,738 monthly while renters pay $1,677—a reversal where buying is $61 more expensive than renting in Larimer's heated market. At 22.0% of the $91,364 median income, rent alone consumes an above-average household share, limiting flexibility.
Fort Collins access comes at a price
Larimer County suits high-earners and relocators willing to prioritize Fort Collins' amenities and job market over maximum housing affordability. If your income substantially exceeds $91,364, Larimer's premium prices become more manageable; otherwise, neighboring counties may deliver better value.
Cost of Living Advisory: Larimer County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Larimer County is affordable. The median rent is $1,677/month against a median household income of $91,364, putting rent at 22.0% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Larimer County is $1,677/month, while owner costs run $1,738/month. Renting saves approximately $61/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $67,080/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $74,486/year. With a median household income of $91,364, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 32.0% of renter households in Larimer County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to El Paso County where rent averages $1,609/month, Larimer County is approximately 4% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Larimer County
Rent Burden
22.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,132
per month
Owner Cost Burden
22.8%
of gross income
The median home in Larimer County may be a stretch
Median home value is $532,200. Estimated monthly cost: $4,249 vs. your max of $2,132.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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