Top Reasons to Live in Colorado Springs
The U.S. News and World Reports listed Colorado Springs, CO as the #2 best place to live on its annual city ranking report. Thanks to the city’s high quality of life, breathtaking natural scenery, and affordable housing market. With virtually no traffic, natural beauty on every corner, moderate year-round temperatures, and a medium home price set at $272,500, it’s no wonder Colorado Springs is becoming THE place to live. Here are a few reasons why you should live in Colorado Springs.
1. The weather in Colorado Springs is year-round bliss
Californian’s boast about their enviable weather, but they obviously haven’t heard of Colorado Springs. In the winter you get the wonder of snow, but without the hassle as the snow often melts in a day. Summers are warm, mild, and so enjoyable that locals often spend their days hiking through the Red Rock Canyon Open space, biking around Rampart Reservoir, or swimming at North Cheyenne Creek. Unlike many U.S. cities with unbearably humid summers and glacial winters, Colorado Springs’ weather is so moderate you actually get to experience all that the changing seasons have to offer.
2. The overall vibe in Colorado Springs is laid back
Because of the emphasis on nature and being outdoors, Colorado Springs has a relaxed vibe that you just can’t get in many major cities. After work, don’t be surprised if your coworkers want to meet up for a hike. It’s a city that prioritizes healthy living, plus it doesn’t hurt that the city’s air quality is among some of the best in the country. Colorado Springs also has a large retired population and if you want to live your most relaxed life, always follow the retirees.
3. The housing market is one of the city’s biggest draws
From quaint craftsman cottages to sprawling ranch-style estates to brand new family homes, you too can have a big backyard with views of the gorgeous Rocky Mountains. The medium home sale price is around $272,500, and most Colorado Springs citizens are home-owners. Colorado Springs home prices are cheaper than most major Colorado cities, which is why it’s a great go-to location for families or those who work in Denver but would prefer to live somewhere cheaper.
Most Colorado Springs homes are located in the suburbs, but modern townhomes are being erected every day in the downtown area. If drought-resistant gardens and quiet desert-style living is more your thing, houses out near Old Colorado City have relaxing vacation-home vibes. Get in contact with a buyer’s agent, who will be able to help you find the best home for you.
4. The city’s natural beauty is the perfect playground for outdoor recreational activity
From the mountains to the foothills to white water rafting, Colorado Springs has natural beauty everywhere you turn, which is why the city attracts so many outdoor adventurers. The biggest draw is that all these recreational activities are just a short car ride from the city center.
Garden of the Gods is a series of breathtaking red rock formations and a popular destination for rock climbers, though it’s also a perfect spot for relaxed hiking and mountain biking. You can also take a car ride up Pikes Peak Highway, which is a safe drive that features breathtaking beauty at every turn, though you may want a 4×4 vehicle if you’re planning to explore this mountain road.
Seven Falls is a series of waterfalls with nearby hiking trails and has been dubbed “The Grandest Mile of Scenery in Colorado.” You can also sit back and enjoy the beautiful Colorado Rockies by train on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad. In the winter, snow enthusiasts will make the two to four-hour drive to luxury ski destinations like Aspen and Vail.
Be cautious of winter roads when visiting these destinations. Regular commuter cars will likely need equipment for travel in icy conditions subject to Colorado state law, and a 4×4 may be preferred here as well depending on conditions.
5. Downtown Colorado Springs has big city amenities with a small-town feel
Downtown Colorado Springs is a small, but powerful metropolitan city with tree-lined streets, cozy cafes, bars, urban walking paths, and children’s playgrounds. The Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts is home to the city’s Philharmonic and welcomes national touring artists and Broadway productions. The downtown area has over 100 miles of paved bike lanes making it easy to get around the city without a car. Colorado Springs has a bustling craft beer community is home to dozens of breweries. If you’re looking for something a little more old-fashioned, Old Colorado City is a historic district and neighborhood filled with pioneer-style buildings that feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the wild wild west. Plus, if you can’t find what you need in Colorado Springs, downtown Denver is just an hour away.
Colorado Springs is a breathtaking city with natural landmarks, a historic downtown, and affordable homes. Whether you’re driving through the mountains, touring a local brewery, or simply breathing in the clean air — it’s clear that living in Colorado Springs is living the good life.