Living in Castle Rock, CO
Explore Things To Do, Cost of Living and Quality of Life Details
Why You’ll Love Living in Castle Rock, Colorado
Imagine basking in the warm, golden rays of Colorado’s sunshine 300 days a year. Year-round sunshine is just one of the many perks of living in Castle Rock, CO. The region also offers walkable communities, mouthwatering eateries, must-try breweries and plenty of outdoor recreation options. And if the natural beauty isn’t enough, Castle Rock has nearly 20 sculptures on display around town adding to its aesthetic.
Thinking of moving to Castle Rock, CO? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Castle Rock, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Castle Rock, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Castle Rock, CO, a Best Place to Live in 2024-2025
Many know Castle Rock, CO, for the interesting butte formation that is the town’s namesake, but there’s so much more that residents love. For starters, the city of 80,000 offers a mix of small-town charm and big-city amenities, making it one of the best places to live in the U.S.
Located midway between Denver and Colorado Springs, Castle Rock is a community on the move with excellent schools, top-notch health care, safe neighborhoods, a quaint historic downtown full of restaurants and shops, and a caring community that likes to celebrate.
Surrounded by wide open spaces (5,800 acres) and trails (nearly 75 miles) and with more than 300 sunny days a year, people here appreciate the natural beauty and enjoy the outdoors. Phillip S. Miller Park is the epitome of ways to stay active, with lap lanes for swimming, trampolines, batting cages, splash pads and a functional fitness area for adults across its 300 acres. For those who love a great deal, you can’t beat the Outlets at Castle Rock, which draw shoppers across the region. New residents like knowing they are in good hands at AdventHealth Castle Rock, which practices whole-person care. For those looking to advance their education, Sturm Collaboration Campus offers a way to earn an associate’s degree from Arapahoe Community College and a bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University in one convenient place.
Castle Rock, CO Quality of Life LivScore
Castle Rock, CO Top Categories
Health
Education
Economy
Castle Rock ranks highest for health, education and economy.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Castle Rock, CO
Pack your snowshoes and swimsuits! Castle Rock residents enjoy four actual seasons, with lots of sunshine and snow. The average highs and lows are 83°F and 52°F (summer) and 46°F and 16°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Castle Rock is around 74 inches each year.
The average annual rainfall in Castle Rock is relatively low at just 19 inches.
Castle Rock averages 245 sunny days a year.
Your stair stepper has nothing on Challenge Hill, a 200-step incline with a 178-foot elevation gain and spectacular views. Or, a trip to Rock Park is pretty much a rite of passage for Castle Rock residents. The “Rock” received its Castle Rock name in 1859 from gold seeker David Kellogg, who thought the towering rock resembled a castle, and the city grew around the rock. Today, you can hike a moderate 1.5-mile trail for great views of modern-day Castle Rock.
Things To Do in Castle Rock, CO
Take the whole family and explore the 300 acres of adventure at Philip S. Miller Park, which features walking and biking trails, hiking, open spaces and beautiful views. There are playgrounds and splash pads, as well. During the summer, enjoy the Tunes for Trails / Perks for Park free concert series in the park.
If your kids are thrill-seekers, consider the zip-line tours offered at Castle Rock Zip Line Tours. If a park is more your speed, Butterfield Crossing Park features a popular large playground and Festival Park often hosts family-friendly events, concerts and festivals.
Castle Rock is known for its community spirit, outdoor inclinations and iconic rock formation, but the city also pays ode to its history. Early settlers came to Colorado looking to strike it rich with gold and silver. But in Castle Rock, they discovered rich rhyolite veins. The volcanic rock was used to build some of Castle Rock’s early buildings.
Sudden Fiction Books in downtown Castle Rock also serves beer, kombucha and coffee, so you can snuggle into a couch and have a drink with your new book. Or, hit up The Emporium, which looks like a real-life Pinterest board. More than 60 merchants sell home decor, clothes, jewelry, flowers and more in this made-over feed and supply shop.
Union American Bistro offers a diverse menu focusing on locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has a welcoming ambiance, and the menu includes a variety of American and globally-inspired dishes.
The Amphitheater at Philip S. Miller Park in Castle Rock is a hub for local entertainment, hosting various events throughout the year, such as concerts, theatrical performances and community celebrations.
Locals love hitting up happy hour at The Library Co. Bar & Kitchen, which includes a solid list of cocktails and snack bites.
The Local and State Economy in Castle Rock, CO
Manufacturing and construction, government and retail are among Castle Rock’s largest industries. The city also has a good mix of small businesses and larger employers, including the Douglas County School District, Castle Rock Adventist Hospital and Aluwind.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Castle Rock is 7.9%.
Yes, Colorado has a state income tax.
Castle Rock residents are in good health, thanks to hospitals like Castle Rock Adventist Hospital and providers like UCHealth. Additionally, the city’s proximity to Denver gives residents a wealth of options.
Castle Rock is home to the Sturm Collaboration Campus for students seeking higher education opportunities.
Weather in Castle Rock, CO
Average Temperatures
63 high / 34 low
Average Annual Rainfall
19 in
Average Annual Snowfall
74 in
Quick Facts about Castle Rock, Colorado
- Median Home Value
- $595,732
- Median Property Tax
- $3,976
- Total Population
- 79,832
- Average Commute
- 26 min
- Median Household Income
- $146,954
- Median Monthly Rent
- $1,793
Map of Castle Rock, CO
Experiences & Adventures in Castle Rock, CO
Discover the Best of Downtown Castle Rock, CO
Explore 13 local spots in downtown Castle Rock, CO, that are the favorites of locals and visitors alike.
Celebrate Colorado’s 150th Anniversary in Castle Rock
Castle Rock locals are gearing up to celebrate 150 years of Colorado history.
Zip to It! 6 Fun Things to Do in Castle Rock, CO
Add these must-try adventures to your Castle Rock to-do list.
Food Scenes in Castle Rock, CO
Check Out the Newest Sips Around Castle Rock
Two recently opened restaurants are adding to the delicious dining scene in Castle Rock, CO.
Meet the Fabulous Foodpreneurs of Castle Rock, CO
These three small-business owners are helping to advance the creative food scene in Castle Rock.
9 Ways to Sip and See Your Way Through Castle Rock, CO
Sip and savor your way through Castle Rock at these epic breweries, wineries and cocktail spots.
Healthy Places in Castle Rock, CO
Local Organizations in Castle Rock Are Reshaping Mental Health Support
Learn about the compassionate care happening in the region.
Health Care in Castle Rock: A Community of Caring
AdventHealth Castle Rock and HCA HealthONE Sky Ridge offer top-notch health care to the Castle Rock, CO, community.
Find High-Quality Health Care in Castle Rock, CO
Residents don't have to go far from home to find the latest in technology and research-driven advances.
Make Your Move to Castle Rock, CO
Colorado Springs Airport Makes Travel a Breeze
With its convenient location and recently renovated terminal with excellent amenities, the Colorado Springs Airport makes travel easy.
Castle Rock, CO: Where to Live Now
Enjoy the Best of Colorado Living in Castle Rock
In this city nestled between Denver and Colorado Springs, you'll find the perfect blend of urban and alpine living.
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.
9 Reasons You Should Move to Castle Rock, CO
Whether you're relocating for work, seeking a family-friendly locale or looking for a place to retire, this Colorado city offers many advantages.
Education, Careers and Opportunity in Castle Rock, CO
Inside the Innovative Partnerships at the Sturm Collaboration Campus
Arapahoe Community College's Sturm Collaboration Campus programs are equipping students for a bright future.
Spirit of 1876 Outfits People to Explore the Great Outdoors
Castle Rock, CO, entrepreneur Mike Gentile parlayed his love of nature into a bustling outdoor retailer.
Castle Rock Schools Power Region’s Highly Skilled Workforce
Innovative public education programs prep students for bright futures.
Castle Rock, CO: Love Where You Live
Preserving Colorado’s Natural Beauty and Wildlife Habitat
The Rocky Mountain Wildlife Alliance and the Douglas Land Conservancy are working to preserve the Central Front Range region of Colorado.
Why I Choose to Live in Castle Rock, CO
Meet Lori Gerlits, president of the Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce and advocate of the Denver metro-area community.
Wellspring Community: A Place to Thrive in Castle Rock, CO
Organization builds inclusive housing for adults with disabilities.
Castle Rock Shout Outs
Data used on Livability.com is provided from the most recent release (November 2025) by Applied Geographic Solutions (AGS). Our LivScore is calculated in partnership with AGS. Sales tax sources: Sales Tax Clearinghouse, Tax Foundation, and State Revenue Departments. Local rates are population-weighted to account for municipal variations.
