Considering a move to Colorado in 2024? With its stunning landscapes, thriving cities, and robust economy, Colorado continues to attract newcomers from all over the country.
With more sunny days than rainy ones, Colorado has the highest elevation in the country and is home to stunning mountains, rivers, plateaus, and canyons, making it a top tourist spot.
The state experiences a semi-arid climate, with average temperatures ranging from 45°F in the winter to 85°F in the summer.
If you are thinking about moving to Colorado and wondering if it’s the right place for you, we have compiled key information about the state to help you make an informed decision.
Colorado derives its name from the Colorado River, with "Colorado" meaning "colored red" in Spanish.
Colorado Population Analysis
Here's a quick overview of Colorado's population and demographics.
Male vs Female Population of Colorado
According to Colorado Gender Ratios, the population of males and females in Colorado is:
| Category | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 5,355,866 |
| Male Population | 2,691,159 |
| Female Population | 2,664,707 |
| Difference (Men - Women) | 26,452 |
| Gender Ratio (Men: Women) | 101: 100 (or 1.01) |
| Percentage Difference | 0.49% |
| National Average Ratio | 97: 100 (or 0.97) |
Colorado’s Population Estimates by Age
According to the State Demography Office, here is the breakdown of Colorado’s Population Estimates by Age groups.
| Ages | Number, 2021 | Number, 2022 | 2030 Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | 5,811,129 | 5,838,738 | 6,386,548 |
| 0 to 17 | 1,260,302 | 1,250,481 | 1,260,206 |
| 18 to 24 | 536,615 | 539,270 | 584,322 |
| 25 to 44 | 1,712,664 | 1,727,962 | 1,878,132 |
| 45 to 64 | 1,402,333 | 1,392,996 | 1,477,447 |
| 65 + | 899,215 | 928,029 | 1,186,441 |
Top Reasons Why People Move to Colorado
People move to Colorado for a variety of reasons, but some of the top factors include:
- Natural Beauty: Colorado is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains, national parks like Rocky Mountain National Park, and countless opportunities for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and rafting.
- Outdoor Lifestyle: Residents enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle with easy access to outdoor activities year-round. Whether it's skiing in the winter or hiking and biking in the summer, Colorado offers ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Climate: Many people are drawn to Colorado's relatively mild climate, with over 300 days of sunshine yearly, especially in areas like Denver and the eastern plains.
- Job Opportunities: Colorado's economy is diverse and growing, particularly in industries such as technology, aerospace, healthcare, and renewable energy. Cities like Denver and Boulder attract professionals seeking career advancement and opportunities.
- Quality of Life: Overall, Colorado consistently ranks high for quality-of-life metrics, including health, education, and overall happiness. Cities like Boulder often top lists for best places to live due to factors like low crime rates and strong community engagement.
- Cultural and Urban Amenities: Colorado offers a blend of urban and cultural amenities alongside its natural beauty. Cities like Denver and Boulder boast vibrant arts and cultural scenes, diverse dining options, and a strong sense of community.
- Education: Colorado is home to several renowned universities and colleges, including the University of Colorado Boulder and Colorado State University, attracting students and academics worldwide.
- Healthcare: The state is known for quality healthcare facilities and services, particularly in the Denver metro area and other major cities.
- Family-Friendly Environment: Many families are attracted to Colorado for its excellent school systems, safe neighborhoods, and abundance of family-friendly activities and outdoor spaces.
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Best Places to Live in Colorado
Colorado offers a diverse range of beautiful places to live, each with its own unique charm and appeal.
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| Place | Population (est.) | Median Home Value | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver | 708,948 | $510,688 | 3.70% |
| Boulder | 02,858 | $826,250 | 2.9% |
| Fort Collins | 359,000 | $477,500 | 2.3% |
| Colorado Springs | 502,306 | $360,050 | 3.3% |
| Aspen | 6,487 | $3,420,000 | 2.1% |
| Durango | 19,955 | $545,000 | 2.5% |
| Golden | 20,533 | $871,170 | 2.7% |
| Steamboat Springs | 13,386 | $1,253,506 | 2.8% |
| Vail | 4,453 | $1,751,167 | 1.8% |
| Grand Junction | 70,383 | $399,933 | 3.7% |
Colorado has an altitude exceeding 10,000 feet and contains approximately 75% of the United States's land area.
What is the Cost of Living in Colorado
Colorado has a cost-of-living index of 121.1, which is higher than the national average, rated at 100. This means that overall, living expenses in Colorado are higher than the average across the United States.
Here are some general insights into the cost of living in Colorado:
- Housing Costs
| City/Area | Average Rent (1-bedroom) | Average Rent (2-bedroom) | Average Home Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver | $1,600 - $2,000 | $2,000 - $2,500 | $500,000 - $600,000 |
| Boulder | $1,800 - $2,200 | $2,200 - $2,800 | $700,000 - $800,000 |
| Colorado Springs | $1,200 - $1,500 | $1,500 - $1,900 | $400,000 - $500,000 |
| Fort Collins | $1,300 - $1,600 | $1,600 - $2,000 | $450,000 - $550,000 |
| Rural Areas | $800 - $1,200 | $1,000 - $1,500 | Varies widely |
- Utilities (Monthly)
| Utility | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $70 - $150 |
| Heating (Natural Gas) | $50 - $150 |
| Water | $30 - $80 |
| Internet | $50 - $100 |
| Mobile Phone | $30 - $80 |
- Food and Groceries (Monthly)
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Groceries (for one person) | $250 - $400 |
| Dining Out (per meal) | $10 - $20 |
- Transportation (Monthly)
| Expense | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Gasoline | $100 - $200 |
| Public Transit | $50 - $150 |
| Car Insurance | $80 - $150 |
- Healthcare
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Doctor Visit (copay) | $50 - $100 |
| Prescription Drugs | Varies |
| Health Insurance | Varies |
- Taxes
| Tax Type | Rate (%) |
|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 4.55% |
| Sales Tax (state average) | 2.9% |
| Property Tax (state average) | 0.6% - 1.2% |
- Lifestyle and Entertainment
| Expense | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Gym Membership | $20 - $80 |
| Movie Ticket | $10 - $15 |
| Outdoor Activities | Varies |
Read more about how much does it cost to move a house.
What Is Colorado Famous For?
Colorado is renowned for various reasons, making it a desirable place to live and visit. Here are some key aspects that define its appeal:
- World-Class Skiing: Colorado boasts some of the best skiing destinations in the world, including Vail, Aspen Snowmass, and Breckenridge. The state's ski industry contributes significantly to its economy, with over 24 ski resorts attracting millions of visitors annually.
- Legalized Marijuana: Colorado was among the first states to legalize recreational marijuana in 2012. Since then, the cannabis industry has grown rapidly, generating over $2.2 billion in sales in 2020 alone and contributing substantial tax revenue to the state.
- Beautiful Mountains: The state's iconic Rocky Mountains provide stunning scenery and hiking, climbing, and photography opportunities. Colorado is home to 58 mountain peaks exceeding 14,000 feet in elevation, known as "Fourteeners," which draw outdoor enthusiasts from around the globe.
- Beautiful Scenery: Colorado is known for its picturesque landscapes, from towering mountains to rolling plains and deep canyons. The state is home to four national parks—Rocky Mountain, Mesa Verde, Great Sand Dunes, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison—drawing over 15 million visitors annually.
- Recreational Activities: With its diverse geography, Colorado offers abundant opportunities for physical activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping. The outdoor recreation economy supports over 511,000 jobs and generates $62 billion in consumer spending annually.
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Job Market in Colorado
As of mid-2024, the job market in Colorado has a mixed yet generally positive outlook. The state has shown resilience in the face of economic challenges, including higher interest rates and inflationary pressures.
Let us have a look at the table:
| Indicator | Value/Trend | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unemployment Rate | 3.7% | Slight increase from previous months (BLS.gov) |
| Job Growth Rate | 1.1% | Below the national average of 1.9% |
| Total Nonfarm Employment | 2,981,100 | Slight increase over the previous months (BLS.gov) |
| Construction Sector | Decreasing | Impacted by higher interest rates |
| Professional & Business Services | Increasing | One of the stronger sectors (BLS.gov) |
| Manufacturing Sector | Slightly increasing | Showing minor improvement (BLS.gov) |
| Trade, Transportation, Utilities | Slightly decreasing | Some declines noted (BLS.gov) |
| Government Sector | Increasing | Contributing to overall job gains |
| Ranking for Job Market | 8th best in the U.S. | Improved job opportunities |
| Bachelor’s Degree Requirement | Decreasing | Many companies are eliminating this requirement |
Best Schools and Universities in Colorado
Colorado is home to several highly regarded schools and universities known for their academic excellence, research opportunities, and vibrant campus life. Here are some of the best educational institutions in Colorado:
Colleges and Universities
| Institution | Location | Type | Notable Programs | Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder | Public University | Engineering, Business, Environmental Sciences | #1 in C.O. by U.S. News |
| Colorado School of Mines | Golden | Public University | Engineering, Applied Science, Mathematics | #34 National Universities by U.S. News |
| Colorado State University | Fort Collins | Public University | Veterinary Medicine, Engineering, Business | #153 National Universities by U.S. News |
| University of Denver | Denver | Private University | Law, Business, International Studies | #93 National Universities by U.S. News |
| United States Air Force Academy | Colorado Springs | Military Academy | Engineering, International Relations, Aeronautics | #22 National Liberal Arts Colleges |
| Colorado College | Colorado Springs | Private College | Liberal Arts, Environmental Science, Anthropology | #27 National Liberal Arts Colleges |
| High School | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry Creek High School | Greenwood Village, CO | Consistently ranked among top high schools; strong academics and athletics |
| Fairview High School | Boulder, CO | Highly regarded for International Baccalaureate (I.B.) programs; college preparation emphasis |
| Creekview High School | Littleton, CO | Academic excellence with a robust Advanced Placement (A.P.) program |
| St. Mary's Academy | Englewood, CO | Private, co-educational; rigorous college preparatory curriculum; community service focus |
| Valor Christian High School | Highlands Ranch, CO | Strong academic programs, athletics and performing arts; emphasis on character development and leadership |
Getting Around Colorado
Getting around Colorado can be a mix of various transportation modes depending on where you are and where you want to go. Here are some options:
| Transportation Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Car Rental | Convenient for exploring multiple locations and remote areas like national parks. |
| Public Transportation | Buses and light rail (RTD) in cities like Denver are useful for urban and suburban travel. |
| Uber/Lyft | Ride-sharing services are widely available, offering flexibility within urban areas. |
| Biking | Many cities, including Denver, are bike-friendly, with rental options and dedicated lanes/trails. |
| Trains (Amtrak) | Routes connect major cities like Denver with other states, which is convenient for longer distances. |
Essential Tips for Moving to Colorado
Transitioning to Colorado is an exciting new chapter! Here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Research Areas: Explore different cities and regions to find the best fit for your lifestyle and budget.
- Budget Wisely: Consider the cost of living and plan your finances accordingly, especially housing costs.
- Prepare for Weather: Colorado's weather can change quickly, so dress in layers and prepare for diverse conditions.
- Job Market: Research job opportunities in your field as industries like technology and healthcare are growing.
- Outdoor Gear: If you enjoy outdoor activities, budget for gear suitable for Colorado's terrain and climate.
- Transportation: Consider transportation options based on where you'll live and work, such as public transit or owning a car.
- Visit Ahead: If possible, visit Colorado beforehand to explore neighborhoods and get a feel for the area.
- Recreation Permits: Familiarize yourself with permits if you enjoy outdoor activities in parks or wilderness areas.
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