The state of Colorado is a top tourist destination because of its stunning mountain ranges and wide open spaces. It is also known for its healthy lifestyle, which revolves around outdoor activities.
Attractions In Places To Live In Colorado
But the housing costs in some of the most popular mountain towns like Boulder, Aspen and Vail can be prohibitively expensive for those on a budget. Luckily, there are still some other cities in the state that offer great quality of life at a more affordable price point.
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La Junta
For those looking to move to a city that offers the beauty of the mountains, but is still more affordable than Denver or Fort Collins, La Junta is the place to go. The town has a low crime rate, high education scores and affordable housing.
Fort Lupton
For families that want to be close to downtown Denver, Fort Lupton is a great option. The city is home to several thriving businesses and is located less than an hour from Denver when traffic is light.
Centennial
For a more upscale suburb of Denver, Centennial is the perfect choice. Residents can take advantage of the many amenities that are available in the area, including a diverse selection of restaurants and a beautiful outdoor park.
Lakewood
Another suburb of the big city, Lakewood has a low cost of living and a variety of entertainment options. The city is also considered one of the most safest in the country, making it a good choice for families with young children.
These cities range from small towns that are an hour or so away from major hubs to suburbs and towns that give you access to the biggest cities in the state. They also offer a variety of different living styles to choose from.
Lamar #1
If you’re looking for an affordable place to live, Lamar may be your best option. This southeast Colorado city has a cost of living index that’s 0.7x lower than the national average. It’s also one of the most affordable places to rent in the state.
A Lamar apartment can cost you less than $900 per month on average, making it a great choice for those on a tight budget. While housing affordability is determined by a variety of factors, the amount of income a household makes is probably the most important.
For example, a homeowner should have a debt-to-income ratio that doesn’t exceed 28 percent of their gross monthly income. Another major factor that affects the overall cost of living is food. In Lamar, a single adult spends an average of $2,996 on food annually, while a family of four spends $8,652 on average.
For those with children, the cost of childcare is a big factor in overall spending. In Lamar, the average annual cost of child care for two kids is $11,095, about $7,100 lower than the average across the state of Colorado.
| Population | 7,656 (2021) |
| University | Lamar Community College |
| Elevation | 1,103 m |
| Founded | 5 December 1886 |
| Area code | Area code 719 |
| Area | 13.7 km² |
Milliken #2
Milliken, Colorado is a quiet town that offers affordable living in a rural setting. It is a great option for families or individuals who want to be close to Denver but still have a small community feel.
It is also a great place to raise children with excellent schools and easy access to big city attractions. Residents of Milliken can easily commute to Loveland, Greeley and Fort Collins for work or to explore the many attractions that Denver has to offer.
Those who are interested in history will appreciate Milliken’s historic landmarks. The Daniels Schoolhouse, which was once the town’s only school, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offers free admission to visitors.
If you enjoy outdoor activities, Boyd Lake State Park is a must-visit attraction. This 1,800-acre park is a popular destination for people who enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, and kayaking.
Home prices in Milliken are a little more expensive than the statewide average, but they are not as high as those in larger cities. In fact, the median income in Milliken is 3.2 times the average home price, making it an extremely affordable place to live.
| Weather | 6 °C, Wind NE at 11 km/h |
| Population | 8,696 (2021) |
| Elevation | 1,448 m |
| Area | 33.41 km² |
| Area code | Area code 970 |
Fruita #3
The small town of Fruita, Colorado is a fantastic place to live. It has a great mix of attractions, a growing downtown, and an incredibly friendly community. The area is also known for its world-class outdoor activities, which make it a popular destination year-round.
Fruita is home to a variety of top hotels, including the La Quinta Inn & Suites By Wyndham Fruita, which is placed 850 feet from Dinosaur Journey Museum and features 24-hour reception, a laundry room and housekeeping services.
The property is also just 17 minutes’ stroll from James M. Robb Park and offers an indoor pool onsite. Whether you want to explore the Colorado National Monument, ride mountain bikes on the Book Cliffs or take in some river fun, Fruita has it all.
Moreover, the cost of living in Fruita is relatively low. Compared to the national average, your monthly expenditure on housing, food, utilities, transportation, healthcare and miscellaneous goods and services will be much lower in Fruita.
| Weather | 7 °C, Wind SW at 5 km/h |
| Elevation | 1,376 m |
| Population | 13,508 (2021) |
| Area | 21.19 km² |
| Area code | Area code 970 |
Trinidad #4
The small town of Trinidad, located in Las Animas County, is one of the most affordable places to live in Colorado. Its low property taxes and high housing affordability make it a good choice for young families looking to move to the area.
Besides its great cost of living, Trinidad also offers a wide range of entertainment options and attractions that appeal to travelers. For instance, the Southern Colorado Repertory Theater is an excellent place to go if you want to see a variety of high-quality performances.
It is also home to the Louden-Henritze Archaeology Museum, which provides visitors with a glimpse into the history of the region. The museum houses a collection of dinosaur bones, ancient pottery, and other archaeological finds from prehistoric times. In addition, Trinidad is known for its beautiful historical buildings.
These include the Baca House, built in 1870. The town is also a great place to shop for authentic Native American jewelry and crafts. The Purgatoire River Trading Company is a must-visit establishment that stocks the best in silversmith work, ceramics, carpets, handmade baskets, and leather crafts.
| Weather | 3 °C, Wind N at 19 km/h |
| Population | 8,335 (2021) |
| University | Trinidad State College |
| Area code | Area code 719 |
| Elevation | 1,832 m |
Colorado Springs #5
Known for its stunning mountain views and recreational opportunities, Colorado Springs is one of the most desirable places to live in the country. But living in the state is not cheap – you’ll need to budget carefully.
The most important expenses to consider when moving to Colorado are housing, utilities, transportation, food, and healthcare costs. However, some factors can add up quickly, like state taxes and insurance.
Gas prices can also be a major expense, especially if you’re commuting to work or if you’re driving an older car. The average cost of a gallon is about $3.65 a week, but the price can fluctuate based on your personal usage and season.
Another expense to keep in mind is insurance, which can be more expensive than the national average. The average rate is around $1900 a year, but rates vary based on your age, driving history, and marital status.
The city is making an effort to reduce its housing shortage by building more affordable apartments. A $50 million project is underway on the north side of town, and it’s expected to provide 240 units to families and homeless veterans by 2023. Those who move into the units will not pay more than 30% of their income toward rent and utilities.
| Weather | 1 °C, Wind N at 16 km/h |
| Population | 4.84 lakhs (2021) |
| Area code | Area code 719 |
| ZIP codes | 80901–80951, 80960, 80962, 80970, 80977, 80995, 80997 |
Brush #6
Brush, Colorado is a great place to live if you’re looking for an affordable community. Its low cost of living compared to other cities in Colorado makes it a good option for families and people looking to buy a home.
The average cost of housing in Brush is 3.4 times the median income, which is lower than the national average and the statewide average. Additionally, the area has a relatively low cost of living when it comes to health care and other common expenses.
A single adult can expect to spend an average of $3,017 on food each year in Brush, while a family of four will spend $8,712 annually. This is a significant difference from the national and statewide averages of $4,081 and $4,266.
Brush also has a variety of affordable options for travelers looking to save money on their stay in this area. These include cheap hotels in Brush, resorts that offer great discounts, and other places that provide budget accommodations. These can be a great way to save while still enjoying the city’s many amenities.
| Population | 5,296 (2021) |
| Weather | 6 °C, Wind E at 18 km/h |
| Elevation | 1,292 m |
| Area | 7.34 km² |
| Founded | 24 November 1884 |
| Area code | Area code 970 |
Fort Lupton #7
Fort Lupton, Colorado is a historic town that is a great place to live if you’re looking for an affordable community in the Denver area. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and it’s close to Denver, Colorado Springs and Grand Junction.
The area was first settled by a military lieutenant named Lancaster Lupton who envisioned a trading post along the wild prairie near the front range of the Rocky Mountains. He built a fort on Adobe Creek and it became a major trading destination for trappers and Native Americans.
A reconstructed version of the original fort is located today and it is a great place to visit if you’re a history buff. There are numerous structures from the era, including a trade fort, trapper cabin and schoolhouse.
In addition to being one of the most affordable places to live in Colorado, Fort Lupton is also one of the best places for families. It has a low crime rate and it’s close to a number of other attractions.
| Weather | 5 °C, Wind NE at 13 km/h |
| Population | 8,260 (2021) |
| Elevation | 1,496 m |
| Area code | Area code 720 |
| Area | 31.6 km² |
Federal Heights #8
One of the most affordable places to live in Colorado is Federal Heights, located just north of Denver. This quaint town is surrounded by beautiful parks and waterways, making it an excellent place to raise a family. Residents are also able to enjoy the many activities that this city has to offer, including hiking, swimming and boating.
Several scenic spots are also available to explore, including Camenisch Park and the Pelican Ponds Open Space. A few of the most popular attractions in the area include Water World, which is a major family water park that is home to numerous events throughout the year.
Additionally, a number of restaurants are located in the city, making it an ideal destination for any foodie. If you are looking to get a better idea of how much your expected expenses in Federal Heights will be, we recommend using our cost of living calculator.
This tool will help you estimate your monthly expenditures on housing, food, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and more. Simply enter your marital status and family type into the box and you will be provided with a breakdown of your expenses.
| Weather | 4 °C, Wind N at 10 km/h |
| Population | 14,194 (2021) |
| Elevation | 1,613 m |
| Area | 4.605 km² |
| Metro population | 29,63,821 |
FAQs about Live In Colorado
What would it be like to live in Colorado?
Living in Colorado offers a vibrant outdoor lifestyle with its beautiful landscapes and abundant recreational opportunities. From skiing and hiking to mountain biking and river rafting, Colorado’s natural wonders offer endless adventures. The state’s dynamic cities also provide diverse cultural experiences, a booming economy, and a welcoming community.
What are the benefits of living in Colorado?
Living in Colorado provides access to breathtaking natural scenery, including majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and rushing rivers. The state offers a thriving economy, diverse job opportunities, and a low unemployment rate. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Colorado’s climate is mild and temperate. Additionally, Colorado’s vibrant and welcoming communities offer a rich cultural experience and a high quality of life.
