Best Cities To Live In Colorado (2024 Guide)
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Last updated 03/19/2024 by
Benjamin LockeEdited by
Summary:
Colorado, nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, harmoniously combines stunning natural landscapes with thriving urban centers, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a diverse lifestyle. From outdoor adventures in picturesque settings to the cultural richness found in its cities, Colorado offers a unique and vibrant living experience.
Colorado, a state celebrated for its majestic Rocky Mountains and lively urban centers, is home to some of the most desirable cities in the country. These three cities, each with their own unique allure, showcase the best of Colorado’s dynamic and diverse living experience. Find out why they made the list.
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Best cities to live in Colorado
Denver
Denver, Colorado, often known as the “Mile High City” due to its elevation of one mile above sea level, is a city with a rich history and a vibrant present. Founded during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush of 1858, Denver has grown from a mining town into a bustling metropolis, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. Nestled against the Rocky Mountains, Denver captivates both residents and visitors with its stunning landscapes, dynamic cultural scene, and thriving economy.
Denver snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Price | $555,429, |
| Cost of Living | 107.394 Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average) |
| Crime | 59.8 incidents per 1,000 residents (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Denver enjoys a semi-arid, continental climate with four distinct seasons characterized by mild winters, pleasant springs, warm summers, and crisp autumns, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities year-round. |
Denver healthcare
Denver, renowned for its high-quality healthcare services, is home to some of the top hospitals in the United States. These hospitals are not only pillars of the local community but also centers of medical innovation and patient care excellence. Denver’s healthcare landscape is a blend of state-of-the-art facilities and highly skilled medical professionals, ensuring residents have access to some of the best healthcare services in the country.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Denver Hospitals | UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital is a leading facility, often featured in U.S. News and World Report rankings. Known for its comprehensive care and advanced medical practices, it stands as a beacon of healthcare excellence in Denver. |
| Other Notable Hospitals | Other prominent hospitals in Denver include Intermountain Health Saint Joseph Hospital, Sky Ridge Medical Center, and Swedish Medical Center, each known for their specialized services and patient-centered care. |
Denver walkability
Denver offers a varied walkability experience, with certain areas boasting high Walk Scores, indicative of a ‘Walker’s Paradise.’ The city’s layout and infrastructure support a lifestyle where many errands can be accomplished on foot, especially in its most walkable neighborhoods.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Denver is somewhat walkable, with some errands achievable on foot. The city’s overall Walk Score reflects a balance between pedestrian-friendly areas and those requiring transportation. |
| Highly Walkable Areas | Neighborhoods like Capitol Hill, Five Points, and Downtown Denver are highly walkable, with Walk Scores ranging from 85 to 94, making them ideal for pedestrians and reducing the need for a car. |
| Neighborhood Variability | Walkability in Denver varies significantly by neighborhood. Capitol Hill, for example, has a Walk Score of 94, making it one of the most walkable areas in the city. |
| City Ranking | Denver is recognized for its walkable urban areas, with 38% of residents living in neighborhoods with a Walk Score of 70 or above, highlighting its commitment to pedestrian-friendly urban planning. |
Denver education
Denver’s education landscape is characterized by a mix of high-performing school districts and top-ranked public schools, reflecting a strong commitment to educational excellence. The city’s educational system is a cornerstone of its community, offering diverse and quality educational opportunities.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Denver Area School Districts | The Denver metro area features several highly ranked school districts, including Boulder Valley School District and Cherry Creek School District, known for their academic excellence and innovative programs. |
| High Schools in Denver | Top public high schools in Denver include Stargate Charter School, Cherry Creek High School, and Peak to Peak Charter School, as highlighted by U.S. News & World Report for their strong academic and extracurricular programs. |
| Public School Performance | Public schools in Denver, such as Polaris Elementary School and Dennison Elementary School, are recognized for their high performance, contributing to Colorado’s robust education system. |
| Top Public Schools in Denver | Notable public schools in Denver include D’Evelyn Junior/Senior High School and Denver School of the Arts, both highly ranked for their exceptional educational offerings. |
Denver jobs and economy
Denver’s economy is dynamic and evolving, characterized by a diverse job market and promising growth projections. While facing some challenges, the city continues to be a significant economic hub, attracting talent and investment.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Market Growth | Denver has experienced a job growth rate of 1.1% over the past year, slightly behind the U.S. rate of 1.8%. The tech sector, in particular, has shown resilience with notable growth. |
| Average Annual Salary | The average annual salary in Denver is $84,788. |
| Future Job Growth | Projections for future job growth in Denver are moderate, with an expected 1.4% increase this year, reflecting a steady but slower pace compared to the national average. |
| Recent Trends | While Denver’s job market remains robust, there are signs of a slowdown, with a slight decrease in non-farm jobs recently. However, the overall outlook remains healthy. |
| Attractiveness to New Residents | Denver’s job market continues to attract new residents, although this influx has contributed to increased housing costs and a competitive job landscape. |
| Overall Economic Strength | Despite some recent challenges, Denver’s economy remains strong, with a diverse job market and a healthy number of job openings, indicating a positive outlook for the future. |
Pro Tip
“When evaluating housing options, individuals should consider affordability, size, and location within the United States. Affordability is crucial to ensure that housing expenses align with their budget and financial goals. The size of the property should meet the specific needs of the individual or family.
Additionally, the location should be convenient and suitable for their lifestyle and preferences. The dominant industries in a region have a significant impact on the local economy and employment opportunities. Areas with thriving industries often offer a diverse range of job opportunities and economic stability. This can attract individuals seeking career growth and financial prosperity”. –
Additionally, the location should be convenient and suitable for their lifestyle and preferences. The dominant industries in a region have a significant impact on the local economy and employment opportunities. Areas with thriving industries often offer a diverse range of job opportunities and economic stability. This can attract individuals seeking career growth and financial prosperity”. –
Ayman Dandashi, Owner Fungus Head
Colorado Springs
Founded in 1871, Colorado Springs, Colorado, was initially established as a resort town. It has since evolved into a thriving city known for its breathtaking natural scenery, including Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods. Colorado Springs is a hub of military activity and aeronautical innovation, blending its historical roots with a forward-looking approach to technology and culture.
Colorado Springs snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Price | $441,990 |
| Cost of Living | 96.836 Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average) |
| Crime | 38 incidents per 1,000 residents (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Colorado Springs experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons, including mild winters and warm summers, offering abundant sunshine year-round. |
Colorado Springs healthcare
Colorado Springs, while not as large as some major cities, still boasts a range of healthcare facilities and hospitals that provide quality medical care to its residents.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Top Hospitals | UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central in Colorado Springs is an award-winning, 413-bed hospital, recognized nationally for quality and outcomes. |
| Other Notable Hospitals | Other healthcare facilities in Colorado Springs include Peak Vista Community Health Centers, Centura Health, and Children’s Hospital Colorado, Colorado Springs, each offering specialized medical services. |
Colorado Springs walkability
Colorado Springs offers a varied walkability experience, with certain areas providing more pedestrian-friendly environments than others.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Colorado Springs has an average Walk Score of 36, suggesting that most errands require a car. (Source: Walk Score) |
| Highly Walkable Areas | Neighborhoods like Downtown Colorado Springs have higher Walk Scores, with Downtown scoring 69, indicating a more walkable environment. |
| Neighborhood Variability | Walkability in Colorado Springs varies significantly by neighborhood. For example, some locations have Walk Scores as high as 93, indicating a ‘Walker’s Paradise.’ |
| City Ranking | Colorado Springs is not typically ranked among the most walkable large cities in the US due to its overall lower Walk Score. |
Colorado Springs education
Colorado Springs’ education system features a mix of highly-rated school districts and top-performing public schools, contributing to a robust educational environment within the city.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Area School Districts | Colorado Springs has several well-regarded school districts. Notable among them are Academy District 20 and Cheyenne Mountain School District 12, known for their strong academic performance. |
| High Schools | U.S. News & World Report lists several top high schools in Colorado Springs, including The Classical Academy High School and Cheyenne Mountain High School, known for their academic excellence. |
| Public School Performance | Colorado Springs public schools are recognized for their quality education, with many schools receiving high ratings for performance and student satisfaction. |
| Top Public Schools | Prominent public schools in Colorado Springs include The Vanguard School and TCA College Pathways, both highly ranked for their educational standards. |
Colorado Springs jobs and economy
Colorado Springs’ economy is characterized by a stable job market, competitive salaries, and positive projections for future job growth, making it an appealing destination for professionals and businesses.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Market Growth | Colorado Springs has seen a steady increase in nonfarm employment, indicating a growing job market. |
| Average Annual Salary | The average annual salary in Colorado Springs is $61,217. |
| Future Job Growth | Predictions for future job growth in Colorado Springs are positive, reflecting the city’s economic resilience and potential for expansion. |
| Recent Trends | The job market in Colorado Springs has shown stability, with a low unemployment rate, indicating a healthy economic environment. |
| Attractiveness to New Residents | The robust job market in Colorado Springs is a key factor in attracting new residents, contributing to the city’s growth and development. |
| Overall Economic Strength | Colorado Springs boasts a strong economy, with a diverse range of industries and a growing workforce. |
Telluride
Telluride, Colorado, was founded in the late 19th century. It began as a silver mining camp on the San Miguel River. Today, it’s renowned for its picturesque mountain views, world-class ski resorts, and vibrant cultural scene, including the famous Telluride Film Festival. This charming town seamlessly blends its rich historical past with a luxurious and adventurous lifestyle, attracting visitors and residents who appreciate its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
Telluride snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Price | $1,879,871 |
| Cost of Living | 72% higher than national average |
| Crime | 26.21 incidents per 1,000 residents (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Telluride experiences a continental climate with cold, snowy winters and warm, pleasant summers, ideal for both winter sports and summer festivals. |
Telluride healthcare
Telluride, Colorado, may not have the large medical institutions found in major cities, but it offers quality healthcare services suitable for its community and visitors.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Telluride Hospitals | Telluride Regional Medical Center provides a full spectrum of healthcare services, including the region’s only 24-hour emergency and trauma services. (Source: Telluride Regional Medical Center) |
| Other Notable Healthcare Facilities | Other healthcare services in Telluride include Axis Health System for substance use counseling and Telluride Whole Health for primary healthcare. (Source: Various) |
Telluride walkability
Telluride, Colorado, offers a unique walkability experience, with its compact, historic downtown area providing a pedestrian-friendly environment.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Telluride has a Walk Score of around 79, indicating that most errands can be accomplished on foot, especially in the downtown area. |
| Highly Walkable Areas | The central area of Telluride is very walkable, with a score of 80, making it easy for residents and visitors to navigate without a car. |
| Neighborhood Variability | Walkability in Telluride is primarily concentrated in the downtown area, with other parts of the town being less walkable. |
| City Ranking | While Telluride may not be ranked among the most walkable large cities, its compact downtown area offers a highly walkable environment. |
Telluride education
Telluride, Colorado, though a small town, boasts a strong educational system with highly-rated schools and a commitment to quality education.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Area School Districts | Telluride School District No. R-1 is highly rated, offering a strong educational foundation from primary to high school levels. |
| High Schools | Telluride High School is recognized for its academic excellence and ranked well both statewide and nationally. |
| Public School Performance | Telluride’s public schools are known for their high performance and quality education, reflecting the town’s commitment to academic excellence. |
| Top Public Schools | Schools like Telluride Intermediate School and Telluride High School are highly rated for their performance and educational standards. |
Telluride jobs and economy
Telluride, Colorado, known for its ski resorts and outdoor recreation, has a unique job market and economic landscape, primarily driven by tourism and related industries.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Market Growth | Telluride’s job market is closely tied to its tourism sector, with seasonal fluctuations in employment related to the ski and outdoor recreation industries. |
| Average Annual Salary | The average annual salary in Telluride is $48,118. |
| Future Job Growth | Future job growth in Telluride is expected to align with trends in the tourism industry and may be influenced by economic factors affecting travel and leisure. |
| Recent Trends | The job market in Telluride has shown resilience, adapting to changes in tourism patterns and economic conditions. |
| Attractiveness to New Residents | Telluride’s appeal to new residents often revolves around its lifestyle and recreational opportunities, though this can impact housing costs and availability. |
| Overall Economic Strength | Telluride’s economy, while smaller and more specialized compared to major cities, is robust within its niche of tourism and outdoor recreation. |
Our methodology
In our methodology for identifying the best places to live in a state, we adopt a comprehensive and data-driven approach, relying on a variety of trusted and authoritative sources to compile our rankings. This process is outlined in the following steps:
Economic Data Analysis: We gather robust economic statistics from esteemed sources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Bureau of Economic Analysis. These agencies provide us with critical data on employment rates, income levels, job growth, and other economic indicators that contribute significantly to the quality of life in an area.
Employment Opportunities: In addition to general economic data, we specifically examine employment statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This includes examining trends in job growth, the diversity of industries present, and the stability of employment in different regions, which are vital factors in determining a place's economic health and attractiveness.
Crime Rate Assessment: For understanding the safety and security of a place, we utilize data from the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer. This tool offers detailed insights into various types of crime rates, including both property and violent crimes, allowing us to assess the safety of a community comprehensively.
Housing Market Evaluation: Housing affordability and market trends are key components of our analysis. We primarily use Zillow.com for up-to-date and detailed information on house prices, trends in the housing market, and the overall affordability of living in different areas. When necessary, we also consult other reliable sources to validate and enrich our data.
Additional Quality of Life Factors: Recognizing that quality of life is influenced by a variety of factors, we also incorporate data from other official and reputable sources. This includes information on education quality, healthcare accessibility, environmental quality, transportation infrastructure, and recreational opportunities, among others.
Data Integration and Analysis: Upon gathering data from these diverse sources, we integrate and analyze it to provide a holistic view of each location. Our analysis involves not only looking at the raw numbers but also understanding the context and relative significance of each data point.
FAQ
What makes Denver, Colorado, an attractive city to live in?
Denver, known as the “Mile High City,” combines urban sophistication with outdoor adventure, offering a diverse range of activities from exploring its dynamic arts and culinary scene to enjoying the nearby Rocky Mountains.
How does living in Telluride, Colorado, differ from other places?
Telluride stands out with its stunning mountainous surroundings and world-class ski resorts, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, while its small-town charm and rich cultural events like the Telluride Film Festival add to its unique appeal.
What are the job opportunities like in Colorado?
Colorado’s economy is diverse, with strong sectors in technology, tourism, and renewable energy, offering a range of job opportunities in both urban centers like Denver and outdoor-focused towns like Telluride.
Is Colorado a good place for families?
With its excellent schools, numerous parks, and family-friendly activities, Colorado is considered a great place for families, offering a safe and nurturing environment for children to grow and learn.
What should one know about the weather in Colorado?
Colorado experiences a varied climate, with over 300 days of sunshine a year, distinct seasons, and significant snowfall in the mountains, making it ideal for both summer and winter outdoor activities.
Key takeaways
- Colorado’s Scenic Diversity: Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado offers a remarkable blend of breathtaking natural beauty and thriving urban life, making it an attractive destination for nature enthusiasts and city dwellers alike.
- Top Cities to Live: Among the best cities to live in Colorado, Denver stands out with its rich history, vibrant culture, and proximity to the Rocky Mountains, offering residents a unique lifestyle. Other cities like Colorado Springs and Telluride also have their distinct appeal.
- Education Excellence: Colorado boasts a robust educational landscape, featuring high-performing school districts and top-ranked public schools. The state’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its quality educational opportunities.
- Economic Opportunities: Colorado’s dynamic economy, characterized by job market diversity and steady growth projections, makes it an attractive destination for professionals and businesses, despite some recent challenges.
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