Zip Code 81226
CO · Population: 8,221
About Zip Code 81226
Zip code 81226 is located in Colorado and is home to approximately 8,221 residents. It receives an overall grade of C+ (score: 54/100), based on safety, affordability, quality of life, and employment metrics.
This area experiences higher crime rates than the national average. Residents should be aware of safety considerations.
With a median household income of $58,487 and home values around $221,900, this zip code offers strong affordability. Residents typically spend a manageable share of their income on housing.
Educational attainment is below the national average, with 14.5% of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
Unemployment stands at 3.5%, which is near the national average.
Scores are percentile-based: a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that dimension. Data is sourced from the US Census Bureau (ACS 5-year estimates) and the FBI Uniform Crime Report.
Demographics & Economics
Score Breakdown
| Dimension | Score | Grade | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | 20 | F | Lower crime = higher score |
| Affordability | 73 | B+ | Lower cost relative to income = higher |
| Quality of Life | 49 | C | Education, commute, ownership |
| Jobs & Economy | 76 | B+ | Lower unemployment = higher |
| Overall | 54 | C+ | Weighted average |
Methodology
All scores are percentile-based (0–100): a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that metric. Safety uses FBI Uniform Crime Report state-level data (Phase 2 will add zip-level granularity). Economic and demographic data is from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates (2022).