If you have an interest in gold mining, youll enjoy touring the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine and visiting the Cripple Creek Heritage Center. The resort also has night skiing and other base-side activities. If you want to check out the fall foliage, try to go during the week or expect to wait in some serious traffic. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The activities in Leadville include the scenic Leadville Southern Railroad, which offers agreat blast from the past and incredible alpine scenery that will not fail to impress. Population: 5,430 Cost of Living Index: 3% Below Colorado Average Median Home Price: $545,000. Often referred to as "high-country playground," the 265,769 acre-park is known for its awe-inspiring landscape. On average, a single adults expense is around $38,947 a year. Yes, from there it got its name Paonia. Ned's Frozen Dead Guy Days, held each March, is a festival celebrating a Norwegian fellow who was cryogenically preserved outside of town following his death in the '80s. County: Logan. Changing aspens can be explored along Kebler Pass, the scenic road connects the mountain towns of Crested Butte and Paonia. Idaho Springs is not only acheap place to live in Colorado Mountainsbut a great place to stop to reach the famous Colorado ski resorts. I remember vividly when I stepped out of the car for the first time I was stunned and felt connected. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the most-well-preserved archaeological sites in the U . It is the most affordable Colorado mountain town in Larimer County sitting at an elevation of 7,522 feet. Ouray. Youll fall in love with thissmall mountain town in Coloradowhich sits at an elevation of 7,867 feet. We start off our list of the most affordable mountain towns in Colorado with Manitou Springs. This is greater than the annual cost of living in Colorado of $40,026. Quirky Lyons, just 20 miles away from Rocky Mountain National Park, offers laid-back coffee houses, cool bars, and a smattering of excellent restaurants where live music is often on the menu. In fact, this incredible destination should be on every Colorado road trip itinerary. There is also a small airport for fly-in options. Estes Park is home to the Rocky Mountain National Park. What are the cutest towns in Colorado? - 2023 There are literally countless amazing small towns nestled in the mighty mountain ranges throughout the state. The air in Paonia smells all fruity! Some of the most incredible mountain towns in Colorado happen to be located right near Denver. 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. 5 Family-Friendly (and Surprisingly Affordable) Colorado Resort Towns After visiting a few of these distinctive affordable Colorado towns, you can settle there permanently. The Continental Divide runs straight through Colorado, along the crests of the However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. Western vibes still thrive in the small town backdropped by the La Plata Mountains. The town is located at the base of Guanella Pass, an iconic scenic drive. Telluride. 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. Where is the cheapest place to live in the Rocky Mountains? Explore the parks, go ziplining, or try out some white water sports when the weather is hot. 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. While Woodland Park is considered a suburb of Colorado Springs it definitely deserves a spot on the best places to retire in Colorado list. are very low, which makes it an attractive place for anyone, especially families looking for a cheap mountain town in Colorado. They might be located in or near the mountains, making it easy to access and enjoy the beautiful landscape. Overall, the most affordable mountain towns in Colorado based on cost of living and home prices are: They all offer a relatively cheap way of life high in the mountains so that you can experience a quiet and rugged life for an affordable price. Population: 5,217 Cost of Living Index: 2% Above Colorado Average Median Home Price: $570,000. Mancos is anaffordable mountain town to live in Coloradowhere youll find modern-day travelers, hikers, and locals navigating among cattle drives, cowboys, horse-drawn carriages, and stagecoaches. 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. 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. Visiting Colorado mountain towns requires local insight to make your stay truly special. Classic Meets Modern: The Edwards House in Fort Collins. Hiking, biking, and river activities are just a few of the adventures on the menu. The Rocky Mountains traverse the states core. Among other things in Telluride are the Sheridan Opera House (a performing-arts venue) and the Telluride Gallery of Fine Art. Thornton. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". The Orvis Hot Springs are close by, offering steamy pools situated in natural settings. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. Even the famous visitors cant overshadow attractions like the Maroon Bells. 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. Salida also has plenty of cultural significance. 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. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. In winter you should explore the ice caves in Colorado, the place feels no less than a Frozen Hollywood movie set. If youre looking for one of the best Colorado summer towns for adventure, look no further than Buena Vista (pronounced Bewna Vista)! The population of 18,465 in 2017 makes it probably Colorado's largest mountain town too. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. With a population nearing 15,000, Sterling is the most populous city east of Pueblo. Also, if youre coming for two days to Colorado, include these places in your itinerary. 10 Best Places to Retire in Colorado in 2023 - Hashtag Colorado Life Afterward, stop at Frisco Bay Marina for a picnic before coming back later in the year to do a bit of snow tubing at Frisco Adventure Park. I was here from October to August, working, living, and enjoying my life. Idaho Falls, Idaho. Its my mission to pass on my wealth of knowledge to you. 4. Afterward, enjoy a day trip to Mesa Verde National Park before exploring the San Juan National Forest and checking out the Animas River Trail too. A mountain bikers paradise, Crested Butte is filled with trails and Nordic ski routes around town. Alternatively, if you love a good black diamond run then youll adore the challenging terrain at Arapahoe Basin before trying some cross-country skiing or snow tubing. Massive and Mt. The town boasts a regional airport and junior college for higher education. Instead of mining for gold, though, youll search for jackpots at one of the small towns nine casinos. This timeKelvindid not want to take me for aromantic getaway in Colorado Spring rather he told me he has planned a surprise for me. 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. A true taste of the fabled American West, Ridgway gained fame when True Grit was filmed here in the late '60s; today, visitors can sign up for a walking tour centered around the John Wayne classic. And because the city's median income is $115,069, Portland has the fourth best home price to income ratio in colorado. 15 Best Mountain Towns in Colorado. 75% of the land is managed by the US Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the State. Every year, people flock from all over the world to experience the best mountain towns in Colorado. 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. Southwest Colorado's biggest city, Durango, is an absolute beautiful place to retire. Estes is well known for its elk herds and their bugling calls in the fall during mating season. It is a tourist spot so getting a job in the hospitality sector is not very difficult. 1000 Village Rd, Granby, CO 80446 | 888-850-4615. The word Ouray means The Arrow and the town was named this because it sits in a narrow valley with steep mountains on three sides. Another mountain town in Colorado that's worth exploring this summer is Aspen. Here's a peek at what it looks like in the winter. If youre looking for a quick getaway from Denver, then youll want to check out some of these beautiful mountain towns less than two hours from the Mile High City. Trinidad is a wonderful place for those who enjoy the great outdoors, and with its highly attractive cost of living and low home prices, it is the most affordable mountain town in Colorado. Ridgway. A breathtaking ride over Trail Ridge Road will bring you to Grand Lake and the west side of RMNP. 7.) Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, with its opportunity to sled the tallest sand dunes in North America, is just an hour away. Courtesy of Colorado Tourism/Dolores Chamber of Commerce, Museum of Western Colorado: Dinosaur Journey, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. Just under a2 hour drive from Colorado Springs, Trinidad is conveniently located on the I-25, and it offers some extraordinary surrounding views. 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. There is a small airport, so flying into Telluride is also an option. Located in the windswept San Luis Valley, Alamosa is a small college town with a great brewpub and plenty of amenities to make it the perfect launch pad for exploring southeastern Colorado. Photo Credit: kojihirano (iStock). 8 Iconic Mountain Towns in Colorado | Best to Live - Uncover Colorado Glenwood Hot Springs is family-friendly, while Iron Mountain, right on the Colorado River, has a good vibe and a more relaxing ambiance. You can also enjoy shopping, stop by a restaurant, and so much more along the Riverwalk. 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. Local Tip: In 2021 reservations are required to visit the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. Of all the affordable mountain towns in Colorado, this might be one of the best for getting out into nature. 22 Best Places to Live in Colorado - Updated with 2023 Data - Strategistico 11 must-visit mountain towns for this summer in Colorado. Outdoorsy types might want to leave time for a trek up nearby Quandary Peak, one of Colorado's 58 mountains that measure 14,000 feet or taller. This gives me a paycheck while you get badass, free recommendations for the best Colorado mountain towns. What was a mining town during the Victorian era has become today's charming town of Telluride. There are also breweries to check out, and all in all, this is a very affordable place to live. Fancy designer boutiques and incredible dining options aside, Aspen is pretty darn beautiful too. It is a place that is known for the iconic, Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway, which features an old steam train from the 19th century that can take you on a scenic trip from Durango to Silverton. Summer is very glorious. This post may contain affiliate links. A bit bigger than many of the towns on this list, if not quite the size of Fruita, Rifle still exudes plenty of bucolic splendor. Found in the southwest corner of the state in one of the most remote spots, the historic mining town of Silverton is one spot for an epic trip. You can spot Pikes Peak in distance. So if youre looking to explore the best mountain towns in Colorado like a local, not a tourist, then youve come to the right place. Photo Credit: Jesse Stephens (iStock; file photo). All these, Read More 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Colorado: Cities with Lowest Cost of LivingContinue, Looking for a weekend getaway in Colorado Springs? Thisll give you a deeper insight into the place. In the winter, youll find incredible skiing and snowboarding, and the list of things to do in Breckenridge in the summer is long. Mancos features a small-town feel where almost all of the residents know each other. Stop by the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum and then take the Route of the Silver Kings to learn some mining history. Salida is a cozy mountain town located where the Arkansas River runs from the valley into Bighorn Sheep Canyon. 3. The roads are full of eclectic merchants, boutiques stores, pubs, parks, pretty cafes, and modern moto motels. Additionally, the crime rates in Mancos are very low, which makes it an attractive place for anyone, especially families looking for a cheap mountain town in Colorado. At 6,522 feet the winters are more mild (but still plentiful Rocky Mountain snow) and summers warmer than higher elevation towns. Ouray is a great summer destination. To start the best up and coming Colorado towns, we have the small town of Fraser. It does not store any personal data. Population: 1,700 Cost of Living Index: 12% Below Colorado Average Median Home Price: $429,000. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. The Riverwalk is among the most popular attractions. I hope you've heard the name "the Imperial Express Superchair", yes, Breckenridge is home to North America's highest chair lift. Ensconced smack dab among some of the richest archeological sites in the country, Dolores is a must-stop for anyone curious about this country's original people. Head southwest to Durango for unforgettable treks found within the San Juan National Forest. You can also enjoy some excellent cuisine here, including a Mexican restaurant, some Chinese and Vietnamese food, and a great pizzeria. These whimsically painted buildings, part of the National Historic Register, make a guided tour through the gorgeous downtown a must. Whatever you want to do, youll find something in Pagosa Springs. Overall, its a quiet town that is good for families and has anice, community feel, making it one of the top affordable mountain cities in Colorado. In the Tenmile Range sits Breckenridge, one of the highest ski towns nearly at the elevation of 10,000 feet above sea level. At nearly 9,000 feet at the summit, the mountain offers 700 feet of vertical downhill. The activities in Leadville include the scenic Leadville Southern Railroad, which offers a. and incredible alpine scenery that will not fail to impress. 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. You can ski and golf in one of Colorados most picturesque towns. Crestline, California. You can also follow in the footsteps of the miners and try to strike it rich during your trip. What gives Fort Collins the edge in 2023 is its relatively affordable cost of living. This is a wonderful place to be if you value peace and greenery, and most of the activities around the town reflect that. Mesa Verde National Park. At the base of Pikes Peak, west of Colorado Springs sits Manitou Springs, a funky artistic Victorian mountain town, and a hippie haven for families, retirees, and artists to reside. The town also provides all of its residents stunning views, and offers a wonderful community spirit. 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. Breakdown by City & Salary Levels, 9 Best Places to Live in South Carolina Near the Beach 2023 Edition, Discover 10 Affordable Mountain Towns in Colorado in 2023. So, if you decide to spend some time in this tiny resort town, youll have no problem finding a place to stay since you can easily book a room at Keystone Resort and enjoy a bit of family ski fun. This is small-town living at its finest. You can also go dog sledding through the Colorado mountains or spend your days fly fishing or golfing. Fraser. Most of the stunning scenery in Colorado is located close to a mountain town. Massive, two of Colorados highest peaks. Its also only 50 minutes from Mount Elbert, which makes it an ideal spot for anyone who wants to spend time out and about in nature. The median home value is $198,990 and a third of the homes within city limits sell for less than $74,000. Breckenridge is about a 90-minute drive from Denver and sits at the base of the Rocky Mountains Tenmile Range. 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. If you happen to see a herd, just remember to keep your distance. , with multiple cafes, ethnic food, and some fantastic eating experiences. Maybe the most famous mountain town in Colorado, Vail is located in the Rocky Mountains about two hours west of Denver (if youre lucky enough not to hit the notorious traffic on I-70). Our mission is to provide a digital resource with original insights on lifestyle and travel experiences. My sister brought me here, I was in college, my second year in 2016, and she use to stay in Pueblo. 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Colorado: A Guide - UpNest The trail through aspen groves from Caves to Lookout Point is an especially incredible fall hike in Colorado. On average the total cost of living for a single adult is $36,642 per year. The town embraces a fun atmosphere with an annual fruitcake toss, pie baking contests, ghost tours, ice cream events, and a lot more. A. A dozen of Colorado's "14ers" (mountain peaks exceeding 14,000 feet) encircle the town, and the Arkansas River runs right through it, providing kayaking, rafting, and tubing enthusiasts a good time all summer long. For, Read More 2 Days in Colorado Springs Itinerary for the Perfect Weekend TripContinue, Your email address will not be published. Guanella Pass is also one of the very best places to see the fall colors in Colorado, but that makes it incredibly crowded during leaf-peeping season. I was lucky to spend the last 10 months in themost affordable mountain town in Colorado, Crested Butte which is also calledColorados Last Great Ski Town. 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 . Also,asingle adult health care expense costs around $3,826 per year, compared to Colorado which cost $ 4,266 a year. Do you want to know what life is like in Colorado mountain towns? There is plenty of snow and Victorian buildings in this elevated town. Where is the cheapest place to live in the mountains in Colorado? - 2023 Hessie Trailhead is the start to a lot of the excellent hikes near Denver in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Leadville is about a two-hour ride from Denver. La Junta (Population: 7,568) This eastern Colorado town is home to Otero Junior College and average annual mortgage payments of only $4,447! It was added to the National Register Of Historic Places in 1984, and birthed the Shavano Chapter of the Columbine Poets of Colorado. Aspenis located about three and a half hours from Denver and is easily one of the most popular places in the Colorado mountains. 5 Gorgeous Mountain Towns You Can Actually Afford - Livability have gotten way too expensive in the last few years. I came here in winter and loved it. Whatever you do though, dont miss BrewSki in March. 3. The 10 Cheapest Places To Live In Colorado For 2022 - HomeSnacks Discover 10 Affordable Mountain Towns in Colorado in 2023 - Strategistico It was added to the. Inside, youll find: PS. It sits an hour west of Colorado Springs in Teller County at the base of the backside of Pikes Peak with amazing vistas. Ouray is about a five-and-a-half-hour ride from Denver. Residents can commute quickly to Longmont, Denver, Boulder, or Fort Collins and still build equity in this affordable community. I recommend going out on the terrace at night to stare at the stars. I hope in many movies youve seen the famous Silver Dollar Saloon, it is one of the oldest operating saloons. What is the best area to live in Colorado? - 2023 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. Fort Collins. On the other hand, the health care cost is around $5,020 per year, higher than in other places in Colorado. Be sure to bundle up if you visit Leadville in the winter. The city is located in southern Colorado near the border of New Mexico and offers lots of fun things to do. Contact us at: hello (at) strategistico (dot) com. Estes Park is a great basecamp for visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. Photo Credit: Wild Frog Photography (Flickr). Find your next adventure in the summer mountain town of Breckenridge. Youll find plenty to enjoy within this towns borders. There are a lot of awesome activities in Glenwood Springs to get stoked about. Elbert, Attend Leadvilles signature events like Leadville Boom Day, You can take the Historic train rides at the historic Buttle Theatre, Go for antique artifacts like Jail Museum and the Heritage Centre, Hike the Rainbow trail through Sangres to witness gorgeous views of the State, I recommend going to Venable Comanche Trail too, Enjoy the adrenaline rush with Liquid Descent Whitewater Rafting. 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. , but you can also enjoy things like trail riding, Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park, a ski resort, and rafting experiences. The rivers and lakes are so blue that they make the sky appear washed out. The West Elk Loop scenic byway and Kebler Pass are close by for a nice drive. I thought he is planning to take me toChristmas towns in Florida. It is nestled between Chicken Creek and the Mancos River, and if you fancy a trip out of town to go camping, you wont have a long drive to handle. Outdoor enthusiasts love this town that is tucked away just north of the Gunnison National Park. Heres how you can explore the best of the Centennial State like a local, not a tourist. In fact, this park is home to a steep canyon that has the Gunnison River running through it, making it an ideal spot for a bit of white water rafting and kayaking. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. 1. 3. Trinidad. Leadville is not only thebest cheap mountain town in Coloradobut a famous historic town with a lot of buildings highlighting its Wild West Roots. Up and Coming Colorado Towns | Affordable Mountain Towns in Colorado While its an easy day trip from Denver, you could easily spend a long weekend exploring around Nederland. Hit the trails for one of the amazing hikes in Breckenridge, such as Mayflower Gulch for one of the most spectacular Colorado wildflower hikes or Mount Quandary to summit a 14er. What city in Colorado has the lowest cost of living? Then hit one of the many miles of trails in the area for a bike or a hike. The town is nested southwest of Denver and is 15 minutes drive from Turquoise Lake in Lake County. Like Salida, Ridgway is all about the arts, with galleries and studios, plus an historic theater and plenty of cool events like full moon art excursions. Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Its pretty and very interesting. It is themost affordable Colorado mountain townin Larimer County sitting at an elevation of 7,522 feet. Granby is the place to go if you want to splash around on the water in one of the best mountain towns near Denver. A single adult on average spend $37,668 annually less than the annual cost of living for Colorado of $40,026. Also, Colorado is home to many beautiful residing places. It's tucked away in the San Juan Mountains, offering plenty of options for outdoor recreation. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. But this small town is nestled right at the base of the Rocky Mountains and offers a wide variety of things to do. There is plenty of snow and Victorian buildings in this elevated town. While its costs are the same as the Colorado state average, it is clear that the city is far from average. Youll find cowboys and cattle roaming in the streets! Ive been to Westcliffe six times in my lifetime. Telluride . Georgetown is a former mining town at the base of Guanella Pass. , including a wildlife refuge, Splashland, a recreation center, a brewery, a climbing wall, and much more.
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