most affordable mountain towns in colorado

While its an easy day trip from Denver, you could easily spend a long weekend exploring around Nederland. You may want to check out the Trinidad Lake State Park, which is just 8 minutes out of town, where you can camp, hike, and enjoy some stunning Colorado weather. that is packed with unique stories and features. 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. 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. 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. The Breckenridge Historic District (mostly along Main Street) is filled with Victorian-style buildings. Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Therefore, during your visit, you can escape the chaos of the city and get back to the tranquility of nature with a visit to Lake Dillon. The byway to the top of the pass is one of the best scenic drives near Denver as you head through aspen groves and alpine terrain and take in amazing views of Mount Bierstadt. There is truly no place like Colorado in the summer, where countless outdoor adventures await. There is a small airport, so flying into Telluride is also an option. The nearby mountains offer plenty of options for biking, hiking, and camping. Learn more about her journey at gleesonreboots.com. Heres a map of the state to get oriented. It runs through the heart of the downtown area and is full of sights and sounds. , and although it mainly caters to tourists, its also quaint and homely. However, the cost of living recorded here is 108.3 (USA average of 100) which is a little higher compared to the state average, but still affordable. Stop by the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum and then take the Route of the Silver Kings to learn some mining history. 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. What makes Salida stand out is its higher-end town with plenty of ways to kick back and relax in the mountains. From Denver, it only takes around ninety-minutes to reach Fraser, which makes regular commutes to and from Denver very easy. If you love outdoor life whatever the weather is, Pagosa Springs may be the place for you. Boulder, Golden, and Morrison have amazing mountain views while still being close to the action of bigger cities like Denver. Crested Butte is also a top spot for leaf-peepers. It sees a lot of tourists during the warmer months, and has a, , or try out some white water sports when the weather is hot. Here is our terms & conditions that stipulates how you can use this site. This place is my home and I love to explore here. It is a National Historic Landmark due to its mining history, and you can learn all about it at the Telluride Historical Museum. Population: 8,280 Cost of Living Index: 20% Below Colorado Average Median Home Price: $182,000. In the winter, Ouray transforms into the epicenter of the ice climbing world. Hesperus Ski Area is one of the most affordable ski resorts in Colorado. Population: 797 Cost of Living Index: 6% Below Colorado Average Median Home Price: $490,000. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. And be sure to visit the Breckenridge troll at the end of the Trollstigen Trail before you leave town! Note: Estes Park is also the safest place in Colorado. Ogden, Utah. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. With unbelievable views of the Sawatch Range and easy access to the Arkansas River, youll be spoiled for activities. The population of 18,465 in 2017 makes it probably Colorado's largest mountain town too. This makes Glenwood Springs one of the best mountain towns in Colorado if youre looking for unique things to see and do. , which is amazingly big given the small town that houses it. 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. Its a super cool event that is basically a giant beer festival but with skis. On average, adults working in Crested Butte pay a tax of $6,252 annually whereas working adults statewide offer an average of $7,011. What is the most affordable mountain town in Colorado? We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. 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. The tiny town of Silverton packs a real punch. If youre into off-roading, youll find some sick 44 roads to get rowdy on in Ouray. Its location is very convenient. Breckenridge is about a 90-minute drive from Denver and sits at the base of the Rocky Mountains Tenmile Range. here, including a Mexican restaurant, some Chinese and Vietnamese food, and a great pizzeria. A. 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. 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. Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Silverton features some of the best things to do in Colorado. Population: 5,217. It is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor adventure seekers. It is a destination for tourists. Ive spent the last 13 years traveling all across Colorado. 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. The dramatic landscape and refreshing clear air are so welcoming and appealing that you should spend at least a day in any of thesemost affordable mountain towns in Coloradoto understand. With so many options, it stands out among the small towns in Colorado. Therefore, during your visit, you can escape the chaos of the city and get back to the tranquility of nature with a visit to Lake Dillon. Coined the "Gateway to the San Juans," Ridgway is perhaps the only town on this list to appear in a film: It was the main filming location for the 1969 John Wayne western "True Grit . 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. Jill is the travel editor for Enchanted Living. The skiing is world-class, but theres so much more to Telluride. In western Colorado, Crested Butte is surely apretty place to live with your familyand the view of lush green fields. 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. 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. So, which one is calling you? Whatever you want to do, youll find something in Pagosa Springs. A breathtaking ride over Trail Ridge Road will bring you to Grand Lake and the west side of RMNP. 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. Not to mention property prices in Colorado mountain towns have skyrocketed. 1. Longmont. If you love reading, read the books of Louis LAmour, youll know why he loves Mancos so much! There is a small airport in the neighboring town of Montrose for fly-in options. At only 2.5 hours from the Mile High City, its a great weekend trip from Denver. You can buy a home that cost around $179,100, which is very less compared to the national median home value. Another reason to visit the mountain town is the Animas River. But this small town is nestled right at the base of the Rocky Mountains and offers a wide variety of things to do. Estes Park is about a 90-minute drive from Denver. Because of its size, the town boasts access to some. One of the best hikes in Telluride is Bridal Veil Falls, which starts right from the end of town. These imposing 14,000-foot peaks are the most photographed in North America and are absolutely breathtaking. Ideal for families, the town is also home to several good schools, local parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The Riverwalk is among the most popular attractions. You can also enjoy the hot springs when you visit Ouray. 2. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the most-well-preserved archaeological sites in the U . For the thrill-seeking traveler, white water rafting may be just what you need this summer. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Lake City. Youll find cowboys and cattle roaming in the streets! Georgetown is one of the most charming mountain towns in Colorado. 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. Its a win-win. The gateway to Snowbasin, Powder Mountain and Nordic Valley, this hidden gem, just 35 minutes north of Salt Lake City, sits at 4,280 feet and is adjacent to 170,000 acres of national forest. Thornton. A single adult expense is around $38,795 annually which is less than the annual cost of living for Colorado of $40,026. I came here in winter and loved it. Meanwhile, Wolf Creek Ski area, just a few minutes away, snags the most snow in the state, more than 450 inches a year. 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. , Trinidad is conveniently located on the I-25, and it offers some extraordinary surrounding views. Average adult weekday ticket price: $45. 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. This mountain town just north of Boulder is home to Eldora Mountain and Eldora Nordic Center, so you can get your skiing fix. 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. There are also, if that appeals to you, and you can visit the, Overall, the atmosphere is friendly and the. This town is sometimes called the Switzerland of America and if you ever go, youll know why. Here's a peek at what it looks like in the winter. 11. Worry not though, magazine House Beautiful has listed the most affordable mountain towns in the USA to make that dream a reality. Also, if youre coming for two days to Colorado, include these places in your itinerary. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. 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. Most jobs are in the hospitality sector. Heres were you can find the top attractions in Colorado: Planning a trip to Colorado? Photo Credit: benedek (iStock). It is voted #1 Most Affordable Town in Colorado as well as one of the Safest Cities in the state. From Gold Rush-era charmers to Wild West wonders, Colorado's smaller burgs offer a pleasing mix of history, recreation, and relaxation. They might be located in or near the mountains, making it easy to access and enjoy the beautiful landscape. There are the bigger, established bases and the tiny one-street towns that force you to slow down and enjoy mountain life. This gives me a paycheck while you get badass, free recommendations for the best Colorado mountain towns. On average, a single adult's expense is around $38,947 a year. The giant troll, who goes by the name of Isak Heartstone, is truly a sight to see. Afterward, you can do a bit of fly fishing in the Yampa River before visiting local cultural institutions like the Tread of Pioneers Museum, the Steamboat Art Museum, and the Steamboat Symphony Orchestra. It was winter and upon that it was my birthday. , including a wildlife refuge, Splashland, a recreation center, a brewery, a climbing wall, and much more. But Nederland might be most famous for Frozen Dead Guy Days, a weird winter festival with strange events like coffin racing and ice turkey bowling. If you happen to see a herd, just remember to keep your distance. Be sure to pay a visit to the Breckenridge troll. What is the best small town to live in Colorado? Local Tip: In 2021 reservations are required to visit the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. There's an artist community here, which means good galleries, and tubing in the summer on the North St. Vrain Creek that winds through town. Ouray is a great summer destination. Its cost of living is about 6 percent lower than the average for Colorado, which can make a difference to your weekly budget. The cost of living is 15% below the Colorado average. However, the jobs are seasonal and low wages positions. Colorado hosts a variety of different flavors when it comes to mountain escapes. Mesa Verde National Park. 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. The snow, the skiing, Christmas celebration were all amazing. 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. Some of the most affordable retirement mountain towns include: Asheville, North Carolina . The Rocky Mountains traverse the states core. A great weekend getaway from Denver, Breckenridge is an epic place to visit for all kinds of outdoor adventures. Please see our disclaimers to learn more about our site. You can explore nature and the rugged Rocky Mountains, Try to take part in the annual BurroFest, an event combining the antics of burros with interactive art, Go on wilderness trips like Mesa Verde Stables, Try to spend charismas tasting beer at Fenceline Cider, taking part in recreational activities, and a lot more, In winter, visit the White River Nordic Council, Marvine, and the famous 178 miles trail in Rio Blanco County, Come to gain knowledge about history at The White River Museum, Take part in Meeker Summer Rodeo Series ( June August), and Meeker Classic Sheepdog Championship Trails (September), Take the Estes Park tramway ride to enjoy some incredible views of stunning valleys and mountains, Spend the evening at Estes Park breweries, Take the Leadville Southern Railroad, to enjoy the beautiful alpine scenery, Hike your heart out to Mt. 5.) This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. One of the biggest draws of Aspen is Maroon Bells, and arguably the most photographed peaks in the state. We looked through all the latest data on cost of living and home prices to find the most affordable mountain towns in Colorado in 2023 for your next move. Then hit one of the many miles of trails in the area for a bike or a hike. Population: 2,614 Cost of Living Index: 11% Below Colorado Average Median Home Price: $350,000. You can also take one of Colorados best scenic drives to the top of Mount Evans, one of the easiest 14ers to summit. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, with its opportunity to sled the tallest sand dunes in North America, is just an hour away. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". 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. Lake Granby is a massive lake on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park where you can boat, fish, or just hang out by the water. To start the best up and coming Colorado towns, we have the small town of Fraser. 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. Don't miss staying at WeeCasa, a tiny home hotel that's one of the country's most uniqueand adorableplaces to lay your head. Every day life seems so easy breezy! Though Idaho Springs has a lot of population, it is still anaffordable mountain town in Colorado. Also, it is the most wonderful green space in the USA. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Visiting Colorado mountain towns requires local insight to make your stay truly special. Massive, two of Colorado's highest peaks. Our choices for the most affordable mountain towns in Colorado also take into consideration the desirability of each town, so that you would actually want to live in these places.

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