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Best Places To Live in Colorado

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Best Places To Live in Colorado

Come for the stunning views and ample outdoor opportunities, stay for for the people. Here are the best places to live in Colorado.

By Livability on February 15, 2024

If you want to live amid the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains, look no further than Colorado. Boasting more than 300 sunny days a year and scenery that truly captures the imagination of people from all around the world, this adventurous state is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts all year round. Hiking, skiing, biking and rock climbing are popular pastimes among those itching to spend as much time outside as possible, while the major cities beckon arts and culture enthusiasts with their multitude of festivals, museums and live theatrical and musical performances. Craft breweries are popular in cities like Denver and Colorado Springs, and the diverse job market brings in all manner of professionals, especially in the technology and aerospace sectors. With its strong sense of community, appreciation for the great outdoors and unparalleled natural beauty, Colorado offers many a quality of life that’s hard to match. Read on to explore some of the best places to live in Colorado.

Aurora

An aerial view of Aurora, Colorado. Aurora is one of the best cities to live in Colorado.
iStock/Jacob Boomsma
An aerial view of Aurora, Colorado.

Why is Aurora one of the best cities to live in Colorado?

With its diverse and growing population of more than 400,000 residents, Aurora is undeniably a great place to put down roots in the Centennial State. Compared to the neighboring city of Denver, it’s a more affordable spot to purchase a home, with median prices hovering around $450,000. The comparatively reasonable cost of living extends to everyday expenses, from groceries and utilities to entertainment and health care, which allows locals to enjoy a higher quality of life where they can focus on the more exciting aspects of living amid the sweeping Rocky Mountain landscape. 

Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers agree that Aurora is a playground just waiting to be explored. The city is home to an extensive network of parks, including the popular Cherry Creek State Park, where you can hike, bike, fish or set up camp for the night. The Rocky Mountains are just a short drive away, full of activities like skiing, snowboarding and hiking in some of the most stunning backdrops you’ll ever see. Those who prefer to spend time in the city will find all manner of entertainment and dining. Aurora locals claim the city has a vibrant cultural scene with numerous theaters, art galleries and restaurants. From leisurely explorations of the Aurora History Museum and Aurora Fox Arts Center to the farm-to-table cuisine at Annette, you can quickly uncover something to suit every interest and palate.

Is Aurora a family-friendly place to live?

Ask any of the locals in Aurora if they think their hometown is a family-friendly place to live, and chances are they will reply with a resounding yes. The city boasts excellent schools, plenty of parks and recreational facilities and a solid commitment to safety. Families often enjoy exploring museums and shops, attending family-friendly events and festivals and playing and picnicking amid the classic Western landscapes. Aurora’s strategic location within the Denver metropolitan area also provides comfortable access to health care, educational institutions, and several career opportunities, making it a tremendous suburban destination for anyone wanting to raise their family and close proximity to a major city and international airport. 

Read more about living in Aurora, CO.

Boulder

Located 25 miles northwest of Denver, Boulder, CO, is a magnet for outdoor lovers.

Boulder is one of the best places to live in Colorado.

People who live in Boulder have a habit of staying for the long haul. And who can blame them? Nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder captivates the imagination of outdoor enthusiasts with its 300 days of sunshine per year and countless outdoor activities available throughout all four seasons. From hiking and biking the trail network to world-class rock climbing in nearby Eldorado Canyon, anyone itching to spend more time in the great outdoors will find innumerable opportunities to explore and connect with other people who want to do the same. The city’s commitment to environmental stewardship is also evident in its myriad of open spaces, designed for everything from dog walking to yoga under the stars. 

Natural beauty aside, Boulder has a reputation for its vibrant culture and intellectual atmosphere. Home to the University of Colorado-Boulder, the city is a hub for innovation and creativity, which has attracted numerous artists, entrepreneurs and academics over the years. The campus is one of the West’s most beautiful college campuses. Pearl Street Mall, a popular pedestrian gem, is a great place to hit up local boutiques and galleries, and explorers can easily find a wealth of restaurants guaranteed to entice just about any palate. Boulder also regularly ranks as one of the most educated cities in the country, and its commitment to education extends to its top-rated public and private schools — which act as a boon to anyone looking to raise their children in the area. 

Is it expensive to live in Boulder, Colorado?

Boulder is an expensive city, with the local cost of living hovering around 40% higher than the national average and 30% higher than the rest of the Centennial State. Newcomers can expect housing costs around 150% higher than the national average, with median rental rates coming in at around $2,000 a month for a 900-square-foot apartment. But if it’s in the budget, locals will argue that the cost of living is well worth it for the access to the outdoors and quality of life available in the city. 

Read more about living in Boulder, CO.

Broomfield

A freshly plowed road after an overnight storm in Broomfield, Colorado. Broomfield is one of the best places to live in Colorado.
iStock/DaveAlan
A freshly plowed road after an overnight storm in Broomfield, Colorado.

What makes Broomfield one of the best places to live in Colorado?

If you’re considering a move to Broomfield, you aren’t alone. With a population of just around 70,000, this booming city is smaller than the state capital but bursting at the seams with entertainment, attractions and outdoor amenities. In fact, the majority of the town is dedicated to soaking up the sun. Newcomers and long-time residents alike appreciate the more than 700 acres of green space and parks that draw people out of their homes and into the greater community for hiking, biking, picnicking and enjoying the wealth of festivals and events put on by the city each year. 

The cost of living in Broomfield is admittedly on the higher end, with averages around 20% higher than the national numbers. Luxury homes are commonly spotted in real estate listings, and the average housing expenses in the community are around 50% higher than the national average. One thing to bear in mind, however, is that the higher-than-average incomes in the area help offset the costs. The job market is vibrant and active, boasting significant industries like manufacturing, software and health care, but you can also find plenty of opportunities in the energy, retail and education sectors. And there are plenty of opportunities for women in the workplace to create thriving careers for themselves in Broomfield. 

What is there to do outside in Broomfield?

Colorado is renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation; Broomfield embodies it all. There are numerous bike trails in and around the city, including the popular Big Dry Creek Trail, which takes riders on an easy-going 12-mile ride, or the shorter Standley Lake North Trail. There are 45 playgrounds in the city for young families and three public golf courses. And when winter rolls around, residents are only a hop, skip and jump away from some phenomenal weekend skiing at Echo Mountain. 

Read more about living in Broomfield, CO.

Castle Rock

An aerial drone image shows the small town of Castle Rock, Colorado, right outside of Denver. Castle Rock is one of the best places to live in Colorado.
iStock/Robert Young  
An aerial image shows the small town of Castle Rock, Colorado, right outside of Denver.

Castle Rock is a great city to live in Colorado.

Nestled comfortably between Denver and Colorado Springs, Castle Rock has gained quite a reputation over the years as one of the best places to live in the country. Around 70,000 people call this city home, and you can bet that each and every one appreciates the local commitment to green spacestop-rated public schools and a wealth of outdoor activities, events and festivals. This medium-size city has around 6,000 acres of open spaces, 95 miles of trails and 53 planned parks. And if that isn’t enough, you’re less than a two-hour drive from the 100 mountain peaks that call the UNESCO-designated Rocky Mountain National Park their home. 

While the natural beauty and opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking and rock climbing are undeniably attractive, the historic downtown boasts its own charm. Strolling through the city means coming face-to-face with a multitude of locally owned boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops or stumbling upon any one of the many annual events and festivals, such as the yearly Oktoberfest, that draw locals and tourists alike to experience everything this enchanting Western city has to offer. 

What is the cost of living in Castle Rock?

Expect to pay a premium for life in this desirable city. The cost of living in Castle Rock comes in above the national average, but many locals note it’s markedly lower than its competing cities, such as San Diego to the west and Washington, D.C., to the east. Quick snapshots show median household incomes around $117,000 and median home prices under $500,000, although this can change quickly in today’s fast-paced real estate market. The good news is that there are countless neighborhoods in Castle Rock, and residents can find one that suits their lifestyle and budget. 

Read more about living in Castle Rock, CO.

Colorado Springs

An aerial view of Colorado Springs, Colorado, at dusk. Colorado Springs is a best place to live in Colorado.
iStock/Jacob Boomsma
An aerial view of Colorado Springs, Colorado, at dusk.

Why is Colorado Springs a best place to live in Colorado?

Colorado Springs has exploded in popularity over the years because of its proximity to the state capital, breathtaking scenery and burgeoning food and craft brewery scenes. The population is around 490,000, but the growth rates are remarkably high, which has earned Colorado Springs the title of the second-largest city in the state. Anyone hoping to relocate here will have their pick of neighborhoods, each different from the last. The cost of living here is around 5% higher than the national average. Still, it’s remarkably more affordable to put down roots here than in Denver, which makes it an attractive option for growing families and young professionals willing to live outside the state capital. 

Residents never grow bored in this vibrant, active and lively city. The natural beauty provides an excellent backdrop for adventures like hiking Pikes Peak, soaring down whitewater rapids, cycling the local parks and trails, visiting the mountain zoo and taking leisurely strolls through the community’s wide variety of museums and attractions. Anyone itching for a burst of adrenaline will appreciate soaring over the Royal Gorge on the country’s highest zip line, and those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground can spend hours taking in the scenery at the iconic Garden of the Gods. After working up a sufficient appetite, locals recommend making a pitstop at one of the many local breweries, such as Cerberus Brewing Company, to refuel with drinks and appetizers. 

What is the job market like in Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs is known for its aerospace and defense sectors, with major employers like Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin contributing significantly to the local economy. The tech industry has expanded rapidly, too, drawing in companies like Hewlett-Packard Enterprise and Oracle. Health care is another boon to the area, led partly by local giants like Penrose-St. Francis Health Services and UCHealth. Tourism and outdoor recreation round out the significant industries in the city, with plenty of opportunities for careers in hospitality or adventure sports companies. There are plenty of opportunities for entrepreneurs across all sectors in Colorado Springs. 

Read more about living in Colorado Springs, CO.

Denver

The snow-covered Rocky Mountains stand tall in the background of the Denver, Colorado, skyscrapers.

What makes Denver a best place to live in Colorado.

Putting down roots in Denver means you can prepare to embrace a clever blend of urban sophistication with outdoor adventure. Otherwise known as the “Mile-High City” due to its elevation at around 5,280 feet, this popular western destination has a worldwide reputation for its vibrant cultural scene, world-class museums, theaters and music venues, and endless outdoor recreation and exploration opportunities. Sports fans are equally happy to call this city home with its many professional teams, ranging from the Denver Broncos and Colorado Rockies to the Denver Nuggets. Denver is a big-time foodie city, so whether looking to eat local, satisfy brunch cravings or try something off-the-beaten-path, residents have endless options to choose from. 

Professionals and growing families are glad to find the city boasts a strong economy with significant industries like technology, health care and energy, all adding to a better sense of job security and market diversity. The housing market can be competitive and varies significantly depending on what buyers are interested in. The overall cost of living is around 11% higher than the national average and 5% higher than the state average, and one study suggests a salary of around $71,000 is needed to live comfortably in the city. 

What is there to do outside in Denver?

One of the most compelling reasons to move to Denver is the access to outdoor activities. This area is a veritable paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an abundance of adventures all year long. Residents have easy access to hiking, mountain biking and trail running, and world-class destinations like Rocky Mountain National Park and Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre are close enough for weekend excursions. In the winter, world-class skiing and snowboarding await in nearby resorts in Aspen, Vail and Breckenridge, and Denver itself boasts a substantial network of urban parks and green spaces like City Park and Cheesman Park. South Platte River also runs through the city and is an excellent resource for anyone interested in kayaking, paddleboarding and fishing.

Read more about living in Denver, CO.

Fort Collins

People relaxing in the quaint Old Town section of Fort Collins, Colorado.

Why is Fort Collins a great place to live in Colorado?

Besides being a downright beautiful place to live, Fort Collins is an active, vibrant and thriving community in the northern region of the Centennial State. Bolstered by the presence of Colorado State University, which acts not only as a draw for new residents but also as a major employer in the community, making the city a great place to settle down for recent college grads. Fort Collins enjoys a strong and diverse economy with technology, education and health care industries. Its desirable location against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains also makes it easy to hike, bike and explore the breathtaking natural beauty this part of the country offers. 

Families and young professionals are often drawn to this burgeoning city partly because of the vibrant cultural scene. Fort Collins has a reputation for being a “craft beer mecca,” and you’ll never want for new breweries to explore on a leisurely Saturday afternoon. Low crime rates, excellent health care facilities and a strong sense of community also make up the city’s bones, which understandably leaves an impression on anyone hoping to raise their children in a place that offers diverse educational and entertaining attractions and opportunities. 

What is there to do in Fort Collins?

You can get up to just about anything in Fort Collins. Outdoor enthusiasts like exploring the Horsetooth Reservoir, Cache la Poudre River,and miles of hiking and biking trails in the surrounding Rocky Mountains. Because the city is known for its craft beer, connoisseurs can find a multitude of local breweries that offer tours and tastings. History buffs can visit the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery and the preserved 19th-century Old Town district. At the same time, art lovers can spend their days soaking up the community’s many galleries and cultural events. Families are equally pleased with their hometown and like to spend time at places like the Fort Collins Museum, the Gardens on Spring Creek and the interactive Fort Fun amusement park.

Read more about living in Fort Collins, CO.

Greeley

An aerial shot of Greeley, Colorado, during autumn. Greeley is a great city to live in Colorado.
iStock/Wirestock
An aerial shot of Greeley, Colorado, during autumn.

Why is Greeley a great city to live in Colorado?

With a population of around 109,000 people and the title of the 10th most populated city in the Centennial State, Greeley inarguably makes a list of best places to live for families, professionals and retirees. Besides being a short 50-mile jaunt to the state capital, Greeley boasts a reasonable cost of living, top-rated health care, excellent schools and many entertaining and educational activities, events and attractions. Paired with its vibrant and growing economy, it’s no wonder more and more people from the region are choosing to put down roots in this active and lively community. 

Greeley locals will be quick to note that they love spending time in the great outdoors. Colorado often sees more than 300 sunny days per year, and the four distinct seasons combined with the iconic western landscapes means you can find something to do outdoors no matter what the weather brings. Ice skating at Greeley Ice Haus and sledding at one of the 57 city parks are common winter pastimes, while summer brings everything from hiking the lengthy Poudre River Trail to golfing at Highland Hills. You can even find indoor waterparks complete with lazy rivers and adrenaline-rushing water slides for children and adults of all ages. The city is also home to many quality grade schools and plenty of popular events like the Greeley Stampede and Greeley Blues Jam. 

What is the economy like in Greeley?

Greeley is a much more affordable place to settle down for anyone looking to keep a Colorado zip code. The median income is around $47,000, and the average housing costs are almost half what you would find in Denver. The job market runs the gamut from positions in agriculture and education to health care and natural gas exploration, as well as manufacturing roles and careers in technology and transportation.

Read more about living in Greeley, CO.

Littleton 

The colorful downtown of Littleton, Colorado, makes it one of the best places to live in Colorado.

What makes Littleton a top city to live in in Colorado?

Bursting with Gold Rush stories, outdoor adventures, and a burgeoning craft beer scene, Littleton could easily take the cake for the best place to live in the Centennial State. Putting down roots here places you a short 20-minute drive from Denver. Still, the slower pace of life offers the chance for residents to exhale from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a more leisurely time surrounded by friends, family and some of the most scenic natural landscapes the Rockies offers. 

Despite being only 13 square miles in size, Littleton is packed with fun things to do and delicious things to eat (and drink). Bacon Social House and Kate’s Wine Bar are popular haunts for those keen on all things culinary and craft brew. At the same time, the historic downtown is ripe with galleries, boutiques and curiosities like The Chocolate Therapist, the Walk the Chalk Festival and the Colorado Pinball Pub. Families are drawn to the community’s distinctive schools, easy commute to the state capital and a multitude of family-friendly gems like the Littleton Historical Museum, Chatfield State Park and Foothills Ice Arena — indeed, Littleton ranks as one of the 5 Best Cities for Families in Colorado

Is it expensive to live in Littleton?

Everyone has their definition of expensive, but you can expect the cost of living in Littleton to be around 6% higher than the national average. Median house listings are around $700,000, and locals say the market is competitive, which makes sense considering the city is small and the population count is just over 45,000. On the bright side, the job market is lively and active, with strength in the technology, health care, manufacturing and education sectors. There’s also a growing entrepreneurial scene in the city with many start-ups across a multitude of industries.

Read more about living in Littleton, CO.

Longmont

Long's Peak sunrise on a fall morning in Longmont, Colorado. Longmont is a great city to live in Colorado.
iStock/RondaKimbrow
Long’s Peak sunrise on a fall morning in Longmont, Colorado.

Why is Longmont a great city to live in Colorado?

Surrounded by sweeping natural landscapes, including the renowned Rocky Mountains to the west, Longmont has earned a reputation for being one of the best places to live in Colorado. It’s conveniently nestled within about 40 miles of the most significant cities in the area, including Denver, Fort Collins and Boulder, which makes it easy to not only commute to other communities for work but also take advantage of the outdoor recreation and abundance of events, festivals and activities available throughout the entire region of the state. 

While the proximity to major cities definitely acts as a bonus, don’t fret about having to leave town to get your kicks. You’re unlikely to grow bored here with the abundance of shopping, restaurants, community events and burgeoning arts and culture scene. Peruse the shops at Village at the Peaks or explore all 1,500 acres of parks and green spaces throughout the city. The job market is another boon to the community, with strong roots in agriculture, technology, education and health care. Even better? The housing costs in Longmont are more affordable than in Denver. At the same time, the local salaries are competitive; it’s easy to see why people of all ages are drawn to put down roots in the area. 

What is Longmont known for? 

Anyone passing through may hear people calling Longmont the “breadbasket of Colorado,” and for good reason. The region has a rich history in agriculture, especially when it came to producing wheat in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The local soil is often described as rich and arable, with well-developed irrigation, all of which played into the explosion of wheat crops and feeding of the state and beyond its borders.

Read more about living in Longmont, CO.

Pueblo

A scenic view of the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk in Pueblo, Colorado. Pueblo is one of the great cities to live in Colorado.
iStock/Faina Gurevich
A scenic view of the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk in Pueblo, Colorado.

Pueblo is one of the great cities to live in Colorado.

Pueblo is one of the hidden gems of the Centennial State, but it boasts a wide array of perks that make it a great place to call home. Families, in particular, are drawn to the community partly because it boasts a remarkably affordable cost of living, especially compared to other cities in the state and even throughout the region. Newcomers are often pleasantly surprised by the reasonable housing prices and cost of everyday expenses. The city’s affordability makes it a more budget-friendly place to put down roots and creates more financial flexibility to enjoy the high quality of life the city affords. Locals enjoy everything from the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center galleries and delicious dishes at Angelos to the charming boutiques along the Pueblo Riverwalk and annual events like the Colorado State Fair and Chile and Frijoles Festival. 

The city also happens to be rich in outdoor opportunities. Situated along the Arkansas River Valley, Pueblo has a mild climate with more than 300 days of sunshine per year, which makes it a year-round playground for anyone who likes to get outdoors. Lake Pueblo State Park is a local favorite for boating, fishing, camping and hiking, and the regional network of bike trails and paths makes it easy for cyclists of all skill levels to enjoy the stunning Rocky Mountain scenery. You can also find several golf courses in the community and nearby rock climbing opportunities at places like St. Charles Peak. 

What is the economy like in Pueblo?

Pueblo’s economy is a diverse one, with industries ranging from steel production and health care to education and manufacturing. The surrounding region has a reputation for agricultural prowess, especially when it comes to farming wheat, corn and melons, as well as ranching cattle. The city also boasts a vibrant small business and entrepreneurial community with many locally owned shops, restaurants and services — all of which make Pueblo one of the best places to live in Colorado. 

Read more about living in Pueblo, CO.

Thornton

An aerial shot of the Denver suburb of Thornton, Colorado, during autumn.
Getty Images/Wirestock
An aerial shot of the Denver suburb of Thornton, Colorado, during autumn.

Why is Thornton one of the best cities to live in Colorado?

Thornton might be one of the many suburbs of the state capital, but there’s more in this growing city of 136,000 people than meets the eye. Rich in annual events, green spaces, shopping and outdoor recreation, this beautiful and relatively new community is a vibrant and charming place to put down roots for anyone wanting to commute into Denver for work but kick up their feet in a place that invites residents to savor a more slow-paced lifestyle on the weekend. Many locals enjoy attending annual festivals like Harvestfest in September, which includes a fishing derby and rollerblading, or Winterfest with its Christmas tree decorating contest and miniature Santa’s Village. Those who would rather get a bit of fresh air have 2,500 acres of parks, playgrounds and trails to choose from. 

Another attractive quality of this growing city is its affordable cost of living. The market is competitive and on the rise, but the average price of a single-family home is lower than you would expect to find in other Denver suburbs. Paired with the projected growth of employment opportunities in industries such as mining, professional services, health care and utilities, Thornton is one of the best places to live in Colorado for anyone hoping to build a career or grow a family amidst beautiful scenery, welcoming people, and affordable real estate.

What is there to do in Thornton?

Don’t let its status as a suburb fool you. Thornton has plenty of fun things to see and do for people of all ages. Trail Winds Recreation Center and Carpenter Park are great spots for hiking, picnicking and pick-up games with friends, and anyone looking to explore the local culture will appreciate the art exhibitions and performances put on by the Thornton Arts, Sciences and Humanities Council throughout the year. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the Thorncreek Golf Course, and there are plenty of shopping and dining choices at the Larkridge Shopping Center. Families, in particular, also enjoy the wealth of community events, farmers’ markets, and seasonal festivals available in the city. 

Read more about living in Thornton, CO.

Best Cities in Colorado Map

Thinking of moving to Colorado?

Picking a great place to live in Colorado doesn’t have to be a chore. We have more resources for moving to Colorado as well as other best places to live out West. No matter where you want to live, we can help you decide where to live and discover the best places to move in the U.S.

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