Inside Local Housing

At the Gunnison County Housing Authority (GCHA), we aim to be a trusted resource for housing information in our community. Housing policies, deed restrictions, rental lease language, and various program requirements can often feel complicated, and part of our role is helping residents, homeowners, renters, developers, and employers better understand how these systems work. If you found this page from our newsletter, you'll see on this page a running list of our educational pieces to answer common housing questions and explain key concepts that shape housing opportunities in Gunnison County.

What is AMI (Area Median Income)? - 3.6.26 email

Area Median Income (AMI) is a measure used to understand the typical income levels within a specific community. Each year, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) calculates AMI for counties and regions across the country. The AMI represents the midpoint of household incomes—meaning half of households earn more than that amount and half earn less. Housing programs often use percentages of AMI (such as 60%, 80%, or 120%) to determine income eligibility and pricing guidelines for housing programs funded or managed by jurisdictions.

How AMI is Used

AMI is commonly used by local governments, housing authorities, and housing developers to set income qualifications for housing programs and to determine rent or purchase prices. By tying housing costs to a percentage of AMI, communities can create housing opportunities that are intended for people with different income levels, such as teachers, healthcare workers, service employees, and other members of the local workforce. AMI helps provide a consistent framework for determining who qualifies for certain housing opportunities and how those homes should be priced. See the 2025 AMI Table here.

Gunnison County Housing Authority Board 

Click HERE to view meeting agendas and minutes.