As a long time resident of the Centennial State, my love for living here runs deep. Having dreamed of a life in the mile high elevations, my reality has been shaped by both the sunshine and fresh powder that define this beautiful place. But, like anywhere, there are downsides to considering making a city or town in Colorado your perfect home.
Through personal experience and a strong connection to this state, I’ve compiled a list of first-hand insights to help you navigate the Honest Local’s perspective. It’s all about having fun, and I invite comments from fellow locals eager to share their two cents. Moving to Colorado can fulfill your dreams, but it’s important to weigh both the pros and cons.
Living in Colorado
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Interesting Facts About Colorado
- Highest State: Colorado holds the distinction of being the United States’ loftiest state, boasting an average altitude of 6,800 feet above sea level.
- Mountain Peaks: Colorado hosts over fifty summits that surpass the 14,000-foot mark, among which Mount Elbert stands as the towering pinnacle of the Rocky Mountains.
- State Symbol: Unique among U.S. states, Colorado’s emblem features a purple mountain, specifically Pikes Peak, a prominent landmark within the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, symbolizing the state’s majestic landscapes.
- Craft Beer: Renowned for its vibrant craft beer scene, Colorado boasts over 400 breweries. It also hosts the Great American Beer Festival, the most extensive beer celebration in the nation.
- Mining History: The state of Colorado is steeped in a profound mining tradition, extracting treasures like gold, silver, and various other minerals from its expansive mountains and deep valleys. Among these natural riches, rhodochrosite stands out as the state’s chosen mineral. This vibrant pink gem, unearthed from the heart of the Rocky Mountains, symbolizes Colorado’s illustrious history of mining and its wealth of geological wonders.
- Coins: Nestled in Colorado, the Denver Mint holds the title as the world’s foremost coin manufacturer. Daily, it churns out over 50 million coins, accounting for roughly 20% of the entire coin production across the United States.
- Oldest Hotel: The Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs holds the distinction of being the United States’ most enduring hotel, continuously welcoming guests since its doors opened in 1893. This historic establishment has provided lodging to several notable figures over the years, including Theodore Roosevelt and John D. Rockefeller, cementing its place as a landmark in Colorado’s rich tapestry.
- Hot Springs: Colorado boasts an impressive array of more than 20 hot springs resorts, making it a renowned destination for those seeking the warm, mineral-rich waters that dot its landscape. These natural springs, sought after by visitors for both relaxation and their purported healing benefits, stand as a testament to the state’s natural beauty and allure.
- Marijuana: In 2021, Colorado led the way in the United States by legalizing the recreational use of marijuana, marking a pioneering step in the nation’s drug policy. Since then, the state’s cannabis sector has expanded substantially, playing a pivotal role in bolstering Colorado’s economic landscape.
Top 5 Most Populated Cities in Colorado
| City | Population | Median Home Price | Average Salary |
| Denver | 738,594 | $561,000 | $66,500 |
| Colorado Springs | 491,467 | $450,000 | $57,900 |
| Aurora | 398,497 | $485,000 | $56,900 |
| Fort Collins | 174,974 | $575,000 | $53,800 |
| Lakewood | 158,584 | $550,000 | $53,600 |
Pros of Living in Colorado
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1. The Economy is Booming
In the heart of the US, Colorado’s economy is not just booming; it’s thriving across a range of industries that reflect the state’s diverse strengths. From cybersecurity and aerospace to biotechnology, the state is a beacon of innovation and growth.
Yet, it’s not all about the high-tech; agriculture remains an important aspect, with wheat, corn, hay, cattle, and sheep painting the state’s vast landscapes. This blend of manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture underpins one of the strongest economic prospects in the country.
Moving here was driven by my love for the state and the vibrant opportunity it presented. Tourism, fueled by Colorado’s stunning natural scenery and a plethora of recreational opportunities, acts as a significant economic driver.
Living here, you witness firsthand the dynamic industry base that’s constantly growing, making it an exciting place to be, whether you’re based in technology, healthcare, or agriculture. Major industries are not just surviving; they’re producing, raising, and innovating, making Colorado a land of opportunity and prosperity.
2. Colorado Has the Best Job Market In the US
Colorado stands out in the US as having one of the most vibrant job markets, particularly praised by US News and Career Cloud for its robust economies and abundance of job opportunities. The state is a magnet for those in tourism, technology, and increasingly, remote work, with tech jobs offering an average salary of $104K+.
It’s not just luck; Colorado has strategically positioned itself to cater to a wide sector of jobs, making it a haven for job seekers. Ranked #2 in the nation for remote job seekers, the state offers a compelling case for moving here, with popular sectors growing by nearly 8%, representing over 165,000 jobs.
This growth is particularly notable in the tech sector, which has seen an increase of more than 130,000 positions, making it a great place to hand-pick your career path. Whether you’re based in Colorado or seeking to move, the opportunities are vast and varied.
3. Living in Colorado the Natural Beauty is Amazing
For nature nuts, living in Colorado is like being in a perpetual state of awe. Known across America for its breathtaking natural wonders, the state boasts peaks, canyons, rivers, and a wilderness that ranges from high desert to lush national parks like the Rocky Mountain National Park, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, and Great Sand Dunes National Park.
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Beyond these, Colorado is home to expansive national forests, national grasslands, and BLM land, making it one of the most beautiful states in the U.S., chocked full of incredible and diverse splendor. It stands as the 5th most popular state for those who rejoice in the highest, deepest, wild, scenic, and rugged landscapes.
And it’s not just the parks; with over 11 national parks, 2 national grasslands, and 8 million acres of BLM land, there’s an amazing array of settings to explore, far beyond what most can imagine.
4. World Class Outdoor Recreation
In the realm of outdoor recreation, Colorado is unmatched, firmly placing it as a top destination in America for those who are truly outdoorsy. Whether it’s winter recreation or summer adventures that you seek, this state has it all.
Powder junkies rave about the Rocky Mountains, Cottonwood Canyons, Park City, Vail, Aspen, and Telluride, making them not just towns but resort meccas. But it’s not all about skiing; Colorado is also known as one of the best mountain biking towns in the country, with public lands that offer expansive, epic playgrounds for every sport and activity imaginable.
Living here, you quickly understand why it’s ranked 9th for outdoor recreation; the accessible, big highlight landscapes are a wonder to behold, truly a heaven for anyone with a penchant for the outdoors. Giving serious consideration to making Colorado your home means embracing an active lifestyle in one of the world’s most accessible and best ski town and mountain biking locales.
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5. Colorado Is a Highly Educated State
Colorado, nestled in the heart of America, is not just a scenic beauty; it’s an educated state where intellectuals thrive. Boasting a population where nearly 52% hold at least an associate degree, it stands as a testament to its smarty pants status.
This makes it an enticing place for those in the tech sector and other industries looking for educated folks. Moving here, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a community where education is both valued and prevalent, making it a smart idea for anyone looking to attract like-minded individuals.
It’s literally and figuratively a high place in ways beyond the altitude—Colorado ranks as the 2nd highest state in terms of educational attainment. It’s a dynamic environment where being educated feels above the standard, emerging not just as a place to live but as a community to surround yourself with brilliance.
6. Coloradans are Friendly Folks
Coloradans are the epitome of friendly citizenry, making Colorado not just a place in the US but arguably the friendliest state you could call home. The jazz cabbage and the alpine air, along with the love for the outdoors and natural beauty, seem to ensure there’s hardly ever a bad mood around.
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Living in such a beautiful place, it’s no wonder Colorado is ranked 7th in rankings for friendliness. Personally, after moving here, the warmth of the community was evident, making even the toughest event feel more manageable. It’s a state where the tradition of passing around good vibes is as fresh as the mountain air itself.
7. Living in Colorado is a Healthy Choice
Living in Colorado is synonymous with choosing a healthy lifestyle, with the state being renowned across the US for its organic foods, healthy foods, and an array of outdoor recreation opportunities. According to the United Health Foundation’s Health Rankings, Colorado is celebrated as the healthiest state for its active population that prioritizes physical activity and exercise.
Healthy living becomes a mantra here, bolstered by abundant access to nature and scenery that encourages an active lifestyle. Colorado proudly ranks 4th, a testament to its health-conscious citizens, with nearly 70% of adults reporting they engage in regular physical activity.
The high rate of immunization and vaccines among children, nearly 90%, and a low rate of uninsured residents, under 9%, further underscore its commitment to health, making it the 3rd least obese state. This culture makes it difficult not to adopt a healthier form of living, where even a simple day is interwoven with opportunities to be active and welcoming spaces to exercise.
8. Colorado is a Sunny Place
Colorado ranks as one of the most sunny places in the United States, with an average of 300 days of sunshine a year, making it a natural choice for those who thrive in sunny and dry climate conditions. Both the eastern and southern parts of the state bask in this abundant sunshine, with cities like Denver and Colorado Springs known for their arid climate.
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However, it’s important to note that this sunshine can vary across the state; the western and northern mountains tend to be cooler and receive more precipitation. Moving to Colorado means embracing its sunny location, where the days are sunny more often than not, including those seeking an active outdoor lifestyle or simply a place where the sun seems to have a permanent residence.
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9. Less Expensive Than Other “Desirable” West Coast States
While the cost of living in Colorado might be high, with a cost of living index of 105.2, meaning it’s more expensive than the national average, it’s still less expensive compared to the western and West Coast states. When we look at places like Hawaii, California, Alaska,
Oregon, Washington, Arizona, and Montana, Colorado emerges as a more attainable option. It stands much lower on the scale of expensiveness, 5.2% lower, to be precise, making it a traditionally desirable place to live. For those considering a move, Colorado offers a unique balance — a cost that’s more manageable than seven other states including those on the West Coast often heralded for their desirability.
Western States with Highest Cost of Living
| State | Cost of Living Index |
| Hawaii | 186.0 |
| California | 138.7 |
| Alaska | 125.5 |
| Oregon | 122.2 |
| Washington | 114.0 |
| Arizona | 108.0 |
| Montana | 105.3 |
| Colorado | 105.2 |
| Utah | 102.0 |
| Nevada | 101.9 |
| Idaho | 98.9 |
| New Mexico | 93.8 |
| Wyoming | 91.66 |
Cons of Moving to Colorado
1. High Cost of Living
Despite its allure, Colorado’s cost of living can give newcomers a bit of sticker shock, especially those moving from relatively cheaper areas of the United States. It’s considered a pricier option, not just compared to the national average but also within the context of the West Coast.
Housing and transportation are significant factors contributing to this expensive state status. While it’s not the highest, Colorado ranks 19th in terms of cost of living, about 5% higher than the national average, making the process of living here a serious consideration for many. The state’s beauty and opportunities often outweigh the cost for many residents, but it’s a top consideration for anyone thinking about making the move.
2. Expensive Housing Prices
Moving to Colorado might not be the place to save a buck, especially when it comes to home prices. The median home prices here hover around $550K, which is significantly more expensive than the national average of $428K.
In recent years, these prices have skyrocketed, making the Centennial State a source of headaches for those looking to buy a house. This surge means that on average, homes are priced about $120K over, equating to more than 20% above what you might pay elsewhere.
This aspect of living in Colorado requires serious financial consideration, particularly for newcomers dreaming of homeownership in its picturesque locales.
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3. Wildfires
A significant problem and factor in deciding on living in Colorado revolves around Wildfires. Over the past decade, these have occurred at an increasing rate, bringing destruction to vast areas. By the year 2024,
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it’s been recorded as the worst period in history, with 665,454 acres burning. These fires are predominantly concentrated in the western half of the state, where a significant portion of the population lives.
This unique challenge has plagued Colorado, leaving behind a staggering impact on many communities, and is considered most when contemplating a move to this otherwise picturesque state.
4. Harsh Winters
Colorado, known as the 14th coldest state in the US, presents cold weather as a significant aspect of living there during winter. Temperatures can vary widely, with average highs in the low 40s to low 50s Fahrenheit, and average lows dipping to the low 20s to low 30s Fahrenheit, often below freezing.
Especially in higher elevations and mountains, Snow is an inevitable occurrence, with several feet of snowfall and icy conditions making travel and outdoor activities challenging. Being prepared and taking precautions for driving or participating in winter sports is crucial.
However, the silver lining to the cold is the abundant sun during winter, allowing residents to soak up and fills their need for vitamin D. If cold winters are not for you, some parts of the state have milder climates, receiving less severe weather throughout the year.
5. Drug Abuse
In Colorado, a concerning issue is its ranks as 1st in the nation for teen and adult drug use, and 3rd for drug abuse. Surprisingly, marijuana is the most used substance, followed closely by cocaine and opioids, with the latter being the number one contributor to deaths by overdose.
A significant factor is the legalized recreational use of marijuana, which has led to high usage rates. However, it’s not just illegal drugs that are the problem; two thirds of overdose deaths involve prescription medicines, highlighting a complex challenge in addressing drug use and abuse within the state.
6. High Altitude
For professional athletes, training for competition at a high altitude makes living in Colorado a dream. The average elevation of 6,800 feet (2,074 meters) above sea level positions it as the highest state in the US.
However, this comes with its adjustment period, especially for those not originally from such heights. Friends have shared their tough time adjusting, with some even complaining of persistent nosebleeds. This is because, despite Colorado having 15 populated cities, only five are less than a mile high, and all are within 600ft of the 5,280 ft mark, significantly impacting how newcomers acclimate to the state.
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Elevation of Cities in Colorado
| City | Altitude (ft) |
| Denver | 5280 |
| Colorado Springs | 6010 |
| Aurora | 5400 |
| Fort Collins | 5070 |
| Lakewood | 5280 |
| Thornton | 5280 |
| Arvada | 5280 |
| Westminster | 5280 |
| Pueblo | 4640 |
| Greeley | 4665 |
| Longmont | 5090 |
| Loveland | 4970 |
| Castle Rock | 6200 |
| Broomfield | 5348 |
| Northglenn | 5280 |
FAQ – Living in Colorado
Is Colorado a good place to live?
Colorado is undeniably a good place to live, boasting a high quality of life and a wide range of options for residents. Its thriving economy, supported by a diverse mix of industries, ensures a strong job market. Furthermore, Colorado is home to top-rated schools and universities, enhancing its appeal for families and students alike.
The state offers abundant recreational opportunities, from hiking and skiing to various outdoor activities, catering to nature lovers and adventure seekers. Additionally, its rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community make it a great place to call home for those who value a connected and vibrant social environment.
Is Colorado a good place to retire?
Colorado is indeed a great place to retire, with its offer of beautiful natural scenery and a diverse range of outdoor activities. The state boasts a thriving cultural and arts scene, further enhancing its appeal. With a relatively low crime rate and a high quality of life, it provides a safe and fulfilling environment for retirees.
Additionally, Colorado’s mild climate and four distinct seasons make it particularly appealing to those looking to enjoy their retirement years in a place that combines natural beauty with a vibrant community life.
What’s the cost of living in Colorado?
The cost of living in Colorado is higher than the national average, largely due to the state’s higher-than-average housing costs. In major cities like Denver and Boulder, these costs can be quite high, reflecting the desirable nature of these locations.
However, when compared to many states on the west coast, like California and Washington, Colorado’s overall cost of living is lower, offering a somewhat more affordable option for those looking to enjoy the benefits of living in a vibrant and scenic state without the exorbitant price tag associated with some other popular locations.
What are people that live in Colorado called?
People who live in Colorado are referred to as Coloradans. This term can apply to anyone calling the state their home, regardless of their background or heritage. It’s important to note that this designation is not exclusive to any particular group; it universally calls all residents Coloradans, embodying the state’s inclusive spirit.
Colorado is the what state?
Colorado is known as the Centennial State, a nickname officially adopted by the state legislature in 1952. This title commemorates Colorado becoming a state in the United States exactly 100 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
It was admitted to the Union on August 1, 1876, marking the 100th anniversary of the nation’s foundational document, which is why Colorado proudly bears this designation.
What’s the population of Colorado?
Colorado’s populace numbers around 5.8 million individuals.
Median salary in Colorado?
In Colorado, the average annual income hovers around $56,700.
What’s the median home price in Colorado?
Currently, the average price for a home in Colorado stands at approximately $550,000.
Is marijuana legal in Colorado?
Yes, marijuana is legal in Colorado for both medical and recreational use. In 2012, voters approved Amendment 64 to the state constitution, which legalized the possession, use, and sale of marijuana for adults 21 and older.
This landmark decision established a regulated market, allowed businesses to legally sell marijuana, setting a precedent for the nation in the approach towards cannabis regulation and use.
Pros & Cons of Living in Colorado (Post Overview)
| Pros | Cons |
| Economy is booming | High cost of living |
| Best job market in the US | Wildfires |
| Stunning natural beauty | Expensive housing |
| Plentiful outdoor recreation | High altitude |
| Highly educated | Harsh winters |
| Friendly people | Drug abuse |
| Healthy population | |
| Lots of sunshine | |
| Less expensive than most west coast states |
