Fort Garland, CO
Population 426 · Colorado
About Fort Garland, CO
Fort Garland is a small community located in Colorado with a population of 426 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $29,750 per year, which is 60% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 23.8 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Fort Garland features a median home value of $239,600, which is 2% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Fort Garland in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $871, 25% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 210 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (117 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (48 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Fort Garland shows an unemployment rate of 3.3%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 33.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Fort Garland have an average one-way commute time of 23.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
5.3% of Fort Garland residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 56.8% White, 3.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 16.0% Asian residents, with 8.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Fort Garland, CO
Compared to national averages, Fort Garland has a median household income of $29,750 (60% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $239,600, which is 2% below the national median. Monthly rent at $871 is 25% below the US average of $1,163. Within Colorado, Fort Garland's income is 66% below the state average of $88,514, and home values are 48% below the state median of $457,127.
Why Live in Fort Garland, CO?
Fort Garland offers affordable housing with a median home value of $239,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $871/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.3%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 23.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($29,750) that falls below the national average. However, Fort Garland’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Fort Garland has a population of 426 with a median age of 23.8 years. Compare Fort Garland with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Colorado.
Similar Cities Near Fort Garland
Cities in Colorado with a similar population size.
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Colorado
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Fort Garland With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Fort Garland
What is the population of Fort Garland, CO?
The population of Fort Garland, CO is 426 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Colorado.
What is the median household income in Fort Garland?
The median household income in Fort Garland, CO is $29,750 per year, which is 60% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Fort Garland?
The median home value in Fort Garland, CO is $239,600, which is 2% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Fort Garland?
The median monthly rent in Fort Garland, CO is $871, which is 25% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Fort Garland?
The unemployment rate in Fort Garland, CO is 3.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Fort Garland, CO a good place to live?
Fort Garland offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 426 and a median age of 23.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Fort Garland, CO?
5.3% of residents in Fort Garland aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Fort Garland?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Fort Garland, CO: median home value is $239,600 (2% below national), median rent is $871/month, and median household income is $29,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 8.1x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Fort Garland?
The poverty rate in Fort Garland, CO is 33.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Fort Garland, CO?
Fort Garland's population is 56.8% White, 3.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 16.0% Asian, and 10.1% two or more races. 8.7% of residents are foreign-born.