most affordable mountain towns in colorado

The best mountain towns near Denver include: There are a lot of incredible mountain towns in Colorado and nearly all of them are stunning. Luckily to reside here you do not have to spend much because it is one of theinexpensive mountain towns in Colorado. But this small town is nestled right at the base of the Rocky Mountains and offers a wide variety of things to do. As the name suggests, Pagosa Springs has some. There are also climbing experiences if that appeals to you, and you can visit the twin lakes and Mount Elbert in just a half hour drive. Canon City With a population of about 16,750 you may be surprised that Caon City, Colorado made it on our list of the most affordable places to live.But this small town is nestled right at the base of the Rocky Mountains and offers a wide variety of things to do. Leadville is the highest town in North America sitting over 10,000 feet above sea level offering sheer Centennial State beauty than you can imagine. The streets of Mancos, the oldest building like Columbine Bar, quaint shops, and vibrant murals on the stalls make the town very inspirational and artistic. There are also breweries to check out, and all in all, this is a very affordable place to live. , with cheap groceries but more expensive healthcare. If you love outdoor life whatever the weather is, Pagosa Springs may be the place for you. We start off our list of the most affordable mountain towns in Colorado with Manitou Springs. I thought he is planning to take me toChristmas towns in Florida. Crested Butte is about a four-hour drive from Denver and one of the best mountain towns in Colorado. This mountain town just north of Boulder is home to Eldora Mountain and Eldora Nordic Center, so you can get your skiing fix. Therefore, we examined all of the charming mountain towns across the state to uncover the best hidden gems that are still relatively affordable and have homes available that cost less than the state average. At 6,522 feet the winters are more mild (but still plentiful Rocky Mountain snow) and summers warmer than higher elevation towns. 21. The air in Paonia smells all fruity! Fairplay is a Statutory Town in South Park sitting at an elevation of 9,954 feet above sea level. , which is amazingly big given the small town that houses it. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. Because of its size, the town boasts access to some. I remember vividly when I stepped out of the car for the first time I was stunned and felt connected. Because of its size, the town boasts access to some great amenities, including a wildlife refuge, Splashland, a recreation center, a brewery, a climbing wall, and much more. Its cost of living is also low, which makes it a great option if youre working on a budget, and its not far from the Ute Mountain Reserve and the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. Thornton. Another non-camping affordable option is The Bivvi - an excellent hostel with dorm and private rooms, hot tubs, a small guest kitchen, and breakfast provided. Westcliffe is tiny and quaint, and it has the atmosphere to match, with a. . Telluride, where "mountain living" is perfected, is an iconic mountain town that draws in thousands of adventure seekers and mountain lovers from around the world, every year. Colorado's Rocky Mountains are filled . Large elk herds roam the town freely. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. In addition, there is a great range of restaurants and dining options, with multiple cafes, ethnic food, and some fantastic eating experiences. To determine the cheapest mountain towns in Colorado that are also nice places to live, we considered several main factors that make a town worth relocating to, such as: Then, we gathered data from official sources like the US government and the FBI via sites like AreaVibes and Niche.com. Dating back to the 1880s, these buildings now offer shopping, galleries, coffee shops, restaurants, and plenty of watering holes. Not only these, but Colorado also maintains a steady graph of job opportunities, especially in the software, high-tech, aviation, and healthcare industries. , this is a fantastic place to live for all country-loving souls that want to escape from the chaotic rush of living in the big city, making it one of the best cheap mountain towns in Colorado. Whether you want to summit a 14er in the Sawatch Range, shred the gnar on some single track, hike to an alpine lake, or raft Browns Canyon, you wont run out of things to do in Buena Vista. However, because of the towns location deep within the Rocky Mountains, visitors can also stop by the Curecanti National Recreation Area and see the Blue Mesa Reservoir. Located along the famous Million Dollar Highway (one of the most beautiful drives in Colorado) this small mining town holds on to its immense charm making it one of the best mountain towns in Colorado. Tiny Creede couldn't get any bigger even if it wanted tothe town is perched in what was once a volcanic caldera, with sheer cliffs rising up around it. The Affordable Mountain Towns in Colorado for 2023. Heres. Here is our terms & conditions that stipulates how you can use this site. Photo courtesy of Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center. Ices Lakes Pictured. Do you want to explore the surrounding area? Whatever you want to do, youll find something in Pagosa Springs. Mesa Verde National Park, with thousands of archeological sites, including 600 well-preserved cliff dwellings that housed Ancestral Puebloans, is just 20 minutes away. Meanwhile, youll enjoy a lower cost of living than the average for Colorado, which makes this town attractive for families on a budget, although most people rent, rather than owning their properties. Boone, North Carolina. Canyon of the Ancients National Monument, which contains an even higher density of artifacts, and the Anasazi Heritage Center, a museum dedicated to the lives of the people who lived in the area 1,400 years ago, are nearly within walking distance of the town. You can opt to make a reservation for a personal vehicle ($10) or take the bus ($16) if youre visiting between 8 am and 5 pm. Manitou Springs is one of themost affordable mountain towns in Coloradoas a single adult including housing, transportation, health costs, and taxes has to pay $34,531 per year. Serious sun, soaking and skiing await in Pagosa Springs, tucked away at the foot of the Continental Divide. Where is the cheapest place to live in the Rocky Mountains? Fraser. Head southwest to Durango for unforgettable treks found within the San Juan National Forest. Salida is a cozy mountain town located where the Arkansas River runs from the valley into Bighorn Sheep Canyon. Thischeapest mountain town in Coloradois not only my favorite but everyones. So, which one is calling you? Don't miss staying at WeeCasa, a tiny home hotel that's one of the country's most uniqueand adorableplaces to lay your head. If you can picture an image of a bright sun shining, watching the legendary peaks, spotting colorful wildflowers, and residing in the quintessential small town it has to be in one of those mountain towns in Colorado. It sits an hour west of Colorado Springs in Teller County at the base of the backside of Pikes Peak with amazing vistas. Florida is my hometown, so what can be a, Read More Winter Wonderland: Top 4 Ice Caves in Colorado to ExploreContinue, Looking for some of the best romantic getaways in Colorado Springs? It is small, but not tiny, and offers an excellent climate. The skiing is world-class, but theres so much more to Telluride. When it comes to uncovering the best mountain towns in Colorado, youll have to visit these top hits. Yes,Paonia is known as Tree City USA because of the abundance of green space. If youre looking for one of the best Colorado summer towns for adventure, look no further than Buena Vista (pronounced Bewna Vista)! It is a tourist spot so getting a job in the hospitality sector is not very difficult. For the mountain town experience super close to the city, make the just over half an hour drive from Denver to Idaho Springs. Population: 14,777. I was here from October to August, working, living, and enjoying my life. Check out my interactive map for the best mountain towns in Colorado. The population of 18,465 in 2017 makes it probably Colorado's largest mountain town too. Photo Credit: kojihirano (iStock). From lively downtowns to stunning cabins nestled deep in the wilderness, theres a lot to get excited about when it comes to exploring these slices of mountain paradise. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Estes is well known for its elk herds and their bugling calls in the fall during mating season. Photo Credit: Daniel Case (Wikimedia Commons). The Riverwalk is among the most popular attractions. And be sure to visit the Breckenridge troll at the end of the Trollstigen Trail before you leave town! It is voted #1 Most Affordable Town in Colorado as well as one of the Safest Cities in the state. For anyone looking to expand their horizons, wee Crestone has evolved over the years from a tiny mining town into a place for spiritual seekers. Of all the affordable mountain towns in Colorado, this might be one of the best for getting out into nature. These are the best small mountain towns with populations of about 10,000 or fewer that are filled with charm and scenic adventures you'll love. 6.) This historic steam engine takes passengers on a scenic journey from the wild western town of Durango to the historic mining town of Silverton. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. are very low, which makes it an attractive place for anyone, especially families looking for a cheap mountain town in Colorado. Colorado mountain resort towns offer great escapes for skiers and snowboarders, but let me tell you a local secret: visiting these idyllic places outside of ski season can be much more affordable and much less crowded.Contrary to popular belief, mountain resort towns aren't just skiing destinations; there are also plenty of things to do in the warmer months to cater to various interests . Estes Park. You can also discover some Colorado history at Camp Hale, where the 10th Mountain Division used to train. The place is always booming with tourists. If youre interested in history, youll also enjoy, 4 percent lower than the national average. Tibetan centers, a Hindu temple, a Zen center (pictured), and a Carmelite monastery are all located within the community, along with art galleries and some of the finest massage therapists in the state. Durango is one of those magical Colorado Mountain towns that is hidden away in the Southwestern part of the state, right near the New Mexico border. And for a unique adventure, dont miss the Telluride Via Ferrata, where you can traverse along rock faces using iron rungs and cables. One of the best hikes in Telluride is Bridal Veil Falls, which starts right from the end of town. Ogden, Utah. This place is my home and I love to explore here. Skiing, of course, is king here come winter, but in the warmer months 750 miles of mountain biking trails make traveling on two wheels tempting. Meeker sits along the White River near the Flat Tops Wilderness Area and Routt National Forests. Telluride, Colorado. If youre into off-roading, youll find some sick 44 roads to get rowdy on in Ouray. Changing aspens can be explored along Kebler Pass, the scenic road connects the mountain towns of Crested Butte and Paonia. This post may, Read More Discovering The Best 26 Reasons: What is Colorado Known for?Continue, Colorado is one of the nations most physically active, secure, outdoor-loving, and all-around naturally gorgeous states. The place is bustling with gorgeous scenery, ranches, and adventurous biking trails. Whatever you want to do, youll find something in Pagosa Springs. You can watch wild donkeys too here! Even the famous visitors cant overshadow attractions like the Maroon Bells. Whatever you do though, dont miss BrewSki in March. Classic Meets Modern: The Edwards House in Fort Collins. From the breathless views and unique culture to quite affordable places to reside, Ill take you around the bestaffordable mountain towns in Coloradothat wont cause heaviness in your pocket. 12 Best Places to Live in Colorado in 2023, 8 Most Romantic Getaways in Colorado Springs in 2023, 10 Best Hikes in Colorado Springs in 2023, Winter Wonderland: Top 4 Ice Caves in Colorado to Explore. Despite its proximity to Denver, Federal Heights is still one of the cheapest places to live in Colorado. Population: 9,671 Cost of Living Index: 19% Below Colorado Average Median Home Price: $236,000. Most jobs are in the hospitality sector. The Arkansas River flows alongside the town, offering plenty of scenic adventures to be enjoyed out on the water. You can also follow in the footsteps of the miners and try to strike it rich during your trip. Georgetown is a former mining town at the base of Guanella Pass. Population: 5,430 Cost of Living Index: 3% Below Colorado Average Median Home Price: $545,000. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. On average, a single adult's expense is around $38,947 a year. Breckenridge is about a 90-minute drive from Denver and sits at the base of the Rocky Mountains Tenmile Range. For a truly unforgettable summer, here are a few must-visit mountain towns scattered all over the colorful state. You can also enjoy shopping, stop by a restaurant, and so much more along the Riverwalk. It was winter and upon that it was my birthday. Among other things in Telluride are the Sheridan Opera House (a performing-arts venue) and the Telluride Gallery of Fine Art. Its famous for its historic architecture and a great artistic culture, and although it mainly caters to tourists, its also quaint and homely. Ive been to Westcliffe six times in my lifetime. have gotten way too expensive in the last few years. Often referred to as "high-country playground," the 265,769 acre-park is known for its awe-inspiring landscape. Where is the cheapest place to live near the mountains? Steamboat Springs. Known for legendary skiing thanks to its location at the base of the magnificent Tenmile Range, .css-1e1wdvt{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:0.0625rem;text-decoration-color:inherit;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:#0A5C80;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;}.css-1e1wdvt:hover{color:#000000;text-decoration-color:#0A5C80;}Breck (as locals call it) also boasts more than 250 structures dating back to the Gold Rush days. What makes Salida stand out is its higher-end town with plenty of ways to kick back and relax in the mountains. Over the summer you can skip the ski slopes and . If youre looking for a posh mountain experience, look no further than Aspen, Colorado. Visiting Colorado mountain towns requires local insight to make your stay truly special. Add to Steamboat Springs to your summer bucket list. Trust me, its a truly awesome experience! Longmont. Yes, from there it got its name Paonia. Paoniaisa veryaffordable Colorado mountain town,as a single adult expenses here, are around $39,303 annually about the same as the annual cost of living for Colorado of $40,026. There was an error processing your request. Ideal for families, the town is also home to several good schools, local parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities. There is a small airport, so flying into Telluride is also an option. And because the city's median income is $115,069, Portland has the fourth best home price to income ratio in colorado. Only a15 minute drive from Turquoise Lake, Leadville is another of the affordable mountain towns in Colorado, and it has a lot going for it. As one of the best mountain towns in Colorado to live in, Salida is a happening place. The quaint main street is filled with restaurants and shops stop by The Alpineer for any gear needs and Chopwood Mercantile for fun clothes and outdoor lifestyle products. Of the best mountain towns in Colorado that are famous for skiing, Steamboat Springs might be one of the destinations furthest from the beaten path. It is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor adventure seekers. You can get a heavy dose of Wild West mining history when you visit what was once a lawless mining town. Cripple Creek is a quick two-and-a-half-hour ride from Denver. Youll fall in love with thissmall mountain town in Coloradowhich sits at an elevation of 7,867 feet. Located right near Breckenridge, Frisco is one of the best mountain towns in Colorado which sits about an hour and a half away from Denver. For the thrill-seeking traveler, white water rafting may be just what you need this summer. The hike to this incredible lake has become so popular that permits are now required, but its totally worth the hassle to see Hanging Lake at least once. The waterway is saluted during the FibArk (First in Boating on the Arkansas) festival and there's a hot springs pool in town, too. This is a wonderful place to be if you value peace and greenery, and most of the activities around the town reflect that. Most Affordable Mountain Towns in Colorado, FAQ: Affordable Mountain Towns in Colorado. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The Rocky Mountains traverse the states core. 2. From the incredible rock formations and stunning landscapesto gorgeous mountain views, picturesque hiking trails, and lots of historic treasures Colorado Springs is dripping with spots that offer the perfect retreat for couples and honeymooners. Population: 2,484. With a preserved silver-mining district reaching 20 square miles and more than 70 square blocks of buildings dating back to the 1880s, it also offers plenty of historic fun. Also, it is the most wonderful green space in the USA. The variety of outdoor activities put this mountain town at the top of the list of best weekend getaways in Colorado. Looking for off-the-wall? It is also just an hour and a half from Colorado Springs. If youre into history, theres also the Trinidad History Museum that is packed with unique stories and features. With so much to do, its easy to see why this is one of the best small towns in Colorado. In the North Fork Valley, youll see a lot of people growing grapes, pears, cherries, apricots, peaches, and more. On Main Street, picturesque storefronts from the 1890s house shops, inns, and restaurants, and for history buffs there are two fine institutions: the Creede Historical Museum and the Underground Mining Museum. Boulder, Golden, and Morrison have amazing mountain views while still being close to the action of bigger cities like Denver. 11 must-visit mountain towns for this summer in Colorado. Crested Butte is just so cute! One of Colorado's most popular skiing and snowboarding destinations, Steamboat Springs still serves up a serious amount of fun for summertime visitors, especially if you happen to like cowboy hats. 5. One of the most beautiful towns in Colorado is Crested Butte, which sets itself apart from other summer destinations with its spectacular wildflower season. Heres how you can explore the best of the Centennial State like a local, not a tourist. The town also provides all of its residents stunning views, and offers a wonderful community spirit. Known for its awesome cliffs and rugged canyons, Gunnison is one of the best mountain towns in Colorado if you want to get away from the crowds and experience the awesome beauty of nature at the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Population: 5,217 Cost of Living Index: 2% Above Colorado Average Median Home Price: $570,000. With a population nearing 15,000, Sterling is the most populous city east of Pueblo. Every year, people flock from all over the world to experience the best mountain towns in Colorado. Vail is about a two-hour drive from Denver. It sits just on the east of the Middle Fork South Platte River, northward to Alma and Hoosier Pass, and close to Breckenridge for skiing. If you'd like to get on top of the rock rather than within it, the park serves up world-famous climbing, too. It does not store any personal data. It is the most affordable Colorado mountain town in Larimer County sitting at an elevation of 7,522 feet. At nearly 9,000 feet at the summit, the mountain offers 700 feet of vertical downhill. You can also check out some of the easier hikes in Estes Park, such as Lily Lake, which is especially lovely when the aspens turn gold in the fall. County: Logan. Caon City. Another reason to visit the mountain town is the Animas River. Breckenridge. You can also enjoy some excellent cuisine here, including a Mexican restaurant, some Chinese and Vietnamese food, and a great pizzeria. Known for its high-end lodging and restaurants, its not surprising to see celebrities walking the streets. A great weekend getaway from Denver, Breckenridge is an epic place to visit for all kinds of outdoor adventures. Photo Credit: benedek (iStock). Manitou Springs. Local Tip: In 2021 reservations are required to visit the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. The housing cost on average is $380,800, greater than the national median value. Crested Butte is a remote town in Gunnison County where you can only breathe the fresh mountain air and no industrial population. Ouray. The cost of living is 15% below the Colorado average. Crested Butte is also a top spot for leaf-peepers. At Mesa Verde National Park in southern Colorado, visitors can retrace the ancient footsteps of the ancestral Puebloans who once lived in the park's magnificent cliff dwellings, and the entrance fee is affordable. You can spot Pikes Peak in distance. With a population of only 8,200 residents, Trinidad is a friendly city that offers small town living. Located in North Colorados Yampa Valley, Steamboat Springs is one of the best mountain towns in Colorado if you want to relax, ski, or enjoy the great outdoors all summer long. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Crested Butte. Outdoor enthusiasts love this town that is tucked away just north of the Gunnison National Park. The town embraces a fun atmosphere with an annual fruitcake toss, pie baking contests, ghost tours, ice cream events, and a lot more. Known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is definitely one of the best mountain towns near Denver. A. Westcliffe sits in the south-central part of Colorado and is the tiny and most affordable area in Colorado. Population: 2,690 Cost of Living Index: 7% Below Colorado Average Median Home Price: $492,000. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. A. Leadville is a warm, close-knit community to live in the Rocky Mountains for all outdoor enthusiasts and retirees. Affordable Mountain Towns in Colorado Our Research Methodology, The Affordable Mountain Towns in Colorado for 2023, Affordable Mountain Towns in Colorado Summary, The 16 Best Places to Live in Florida for 2023, Here are the 12 Cheapest Beach Towns in California, 12 Stunning Resorts in Florida for Every Budget, California vs Florida - Our Full Comparison, 12 Cheapest (and Safest) Cities to Live in Florida in 2023, 8 Fastest Growing Small Towns in Texas in 2023 Charming & Desirable, What is a Good Salary in Florida in 2023?

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