Best places to live in Colorado in 2023
If you’re on the lookout for a state that combines breathtaking natural beauty with a high quality of life, Colorado is an outstanding choice. Known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the majestic Rocky Mountains to the sprawling Colorado Plateau, this state offers a wealth of outdoor and urban adventures. From hiking and skiing to white-water rafting, Colorado provides an array of activities for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, with a strong eco-conscious community and a robust economy encompassing technology, agriculture, and tourism, Colorado presents a multitude of employment opportunities.
Top 5 Places to Live in Colorado:
- Aurora: Topping the list is Aurora, a thriving suburban city located just east of Denver. Boasting a diverse population and excellent outdoor recreational opportunities, Aurora is also home to the University of Colorado’s Anschutz Medical Campus, contributing to a robust healthcare industry. With over 100 parks within the city, green spaces abound. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the home stadiums of the Denver Broncos, Colorado Rockies, and NBA champion Denver Nuggets.
- Median home-sale price: $461,226
- Cost of living: 105.0 (national average is 100)
- Average salary: $78,150
- Unemployment rate: 2.8%
- Well-being: 70 out of 100
- Diversity: 57.4 out of 100
- Net migration: 0.2% population decrease year over year
- Boulder: Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder is renowned for its commitment to environmentalism and its thriving tech and startup scene. Home to the main campus of the University of Colorado, the city offers 45,000 acres of open space, 300 miles of hiking and biking trails, and easy access to skiing. The famously walkable Pearl Street Mall adds to its appeal.
- Median home-sale price: $861,500
- Cost of living: 105.0 (national average is 100)
- Average salary: $89,593
- Unemployment rate: 2.5%
- Well-being: 74 out of 100
- Diversity: 42.8 out of 100
- Net migration: 0.4% population decrease year over year
- Fort Collins: This vibrant college town, home to Colorado State University, is nestled in the foothills of the Rockies. Offering a diverse economy and a rich cultural scene, Fort Collins boasts nearly 1,000 acres of parks, a historic downtown, and convenient access to mountain recreation.
- Median home-sale price: $565,000
- Cost of living: 105.0 (national average is 100)
- Average salary: $64,258
- Unemployment rate: 2.4%
- Well-being: 64 out of 100
- Diversity: 35.4 out of 100
- Net migration: 0.7% population increase year over year
- Greeley: Located an hour north of Denver, Greeley combines a strong agricultural heritage with a thriving economy. The city offers a diverse range of industries, including oil and natural gas development. Education is a significant focus, with the University of Northern Colorado and Aims Community College being major employers.
- Median home-sale price: $410,000
- Cost of living: 105.0 (national average is 100)
- Average salary: $56,553
- Unemployment rate: 2.9%
- Well-being: 58 out of 100
- Diversity: 49.3 out of 100
- Net migration: 2.0% population increase year over year
- Colorado Springs: Situated at the base of the majestic Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs offers a unique blend of stunning natural scenery and vibrant urban living. As the state’s second-largest city, it hosts a diverse economy and a thriving arts and culture scene. Major employers include Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Air Force.
- Median home-sale price: $463,000
- Cost of living: 105.0 (national average is 100)
- Average salary: $58,736
- Unemployment rate: 2.9%
- Well-being: 60 out of 100
- Diversity: 51.8 out of 100
- Net migration: 0.4% population increase year over year
Conclusion:
Choosing the best place to live is a highly personal decision, and Colorado offers an impressive array of options. From the thriving suburbs of Aurora to the environmentally conscious community of Boulder, each city has its unique charm and attractions. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, a robust job market, or a vibrant cultural scene, Colorado has it all.
