BroncoFan

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  • Reviews 122
  • Questions 1,189
  • Answers 539
  • Discussions 8

Reviews

4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 4/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 4/5
Just now

"Colorado's First County"

I have lived in Arapahoe County for the last 10 years and overall I have enjoyed it. It was the first county in Colorado and has the third highest population of counties in Colorado. Although there are plenty of cities and urban areas to choose from, there is also a lot of country living as well. The county was named after the Arapaho Indians which roamed the plains back when Colorado was just a territory. The county started out larger than it is today; it used to stretch all the way to the Kansas border.

Overall I'd have to say the quality of living in Arapahoe County is really good. It has some great parks, really good trail systems, and some of the best schools in Colorado. Although it's not in them mountains, they aren't far away from the western side of the county. Every year Arapahoe County holds its annual fair at the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds. It's pretty big with competitions, rodeos, a carnival, and other attractions.

For anyone considering moving to Colorado, Arapahoe County has close to the lowest mill levy rate in Colorado.
Pros
  • great schools
  • urban and rural areas
  • low mill levy rate
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
Just now

"An area surrounded by parks and lakes"

South Neighborhood is located in Littleton and has pretty quick access to C-470 to get to the mountains or to the west or south side of the Denver metro area. There are several parks and the McLellen Reservoir in the neighborhood as well. Most of the housing in this neighborhood is made up of single family dwellings which are (for the most part) kept in good condition. Streets are lined with large shade trees and there are outdoor pools in the neighborhood for kids and families to enjoy. There are numerous businesses in the area so there's not much need for residents to venture too far away.
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
Just now

"100% Rural Living in Coal Creek"

Coal Creek, Colorado sometimes gets confused with Coal Creek Canyon, which is close to Golden. Although similar in name, they are very different places. Coal Creek is home to 343 people as of the last census and this town offers all rural living. It lies just a few miles southwest of Florence, Colorado and many of the residents work in construction and the health care field.

The median household income here is about $15,000 less than the state average, although the housing prices are incredibly cheaper. This would be a good place to have a small farm or just get away from it all.
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A less expensive alternative to Ft. Collins"

Laporte, Colorado is a small town of ~2,450 people. It lies just northwest of Fort Collins amid gently rolling hills with beautiful vistas in the distance. Many residents who live here work in Fort Collins which is only about 10 minutes away. Laporte is a great area for families who want to be near Fort Collins but are looking for less expensive housing. On average, the homes in Laporte are about $30,000 less expensive than the rest of Colorado. Income levels tend to be less here as well. There aren't a lot of businesses in Laporte other than a few restaurants and gas stations, and the few other small town businesses you'd normally find in a small community like this (i.e. a local vet, etc.). Construction is overwhelmingly the largest industry followed by health care and social assistance.

The schools in Laporte typically rate slightly higher than average when compared to the rest of the state. However, this little town is very family-friendly and you can often see children playing about when driving through. There are many single family homes, condos, and even a few apartments.

Overall, this is a good small town to live in for anyone who works in Ft. Collins but is looking for less expensive housing options for themselves or their family.
Pros
  • Decent Priced Housing
  • Family Friendly
  • Close to Ft.Collins
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
Just now

"World renown for all the wrong reasons"

We have friends who live in Columbine and we've always enjoyed going to their home for dinner. The area has some nice homes, good amenities, and is really close to the mountains which is always a plus. However, since the Columbine HS tragedy some years ago, this area became known for all the wrong reasons. It's a nice, relatively quiet area with tons to do and pretty great highway access. There's no lack of shopping or dining nearby, so residents never have far to travel.

The area is primarily white, upper middle class. The household income is higher than the state average but so is the cost of homes. When it comes to industries, there is no one overwhelming winner, there are quite a few represented.

There are some scenic spots in Columbine and also some really good parks. Not far away is a biking trail that goes along C-470 and you can get in a really great workout on it from all of the hills along the highway. Other than being known for the tragedy that occurred here, I think this is a nice area with a lot to offer its residents.
Pros
  • lots to do
  • nice homes
  • close to the mountains
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Clean & Green 2/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 1/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 2/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
Just now

"A tightly spaced community near Brighton"

Lochbuie lies just north of Brighton off of I-76, making it convenient for residents to shop or go out to eat not too far away. Lochbuie itself doesn't have much of anything outside of an elementary school and a Subway. The homes in Lochbuie are pretty small and tightly packed into the area. Most of the homes are those pre-fab type which are built and then transported to the location where they will stay. So these smaller homes have no basements and about half of them have no garages either, meaning many residents have cement pads right in front of their homes where they park and some park on the street, making street parking less than stellar.

The median income in Lochbuie is right in line with the rest of the state, but the homes prices are so much cheaper that living in Lochbuie gives residents a pretty good bang for their buck. The downside is there are no real amenities to speak of and there isn't much in the line of work unless you're willing to travel.
Pros
  • close to Brighton
Cons
  • no amenities
  • houses close together
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Clean & Green 2/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 2/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
Just now

"An older Denver suburb"

Sheridan lies right off of Santa Fe Drive and Hampden (285) southwest of Denver. Although Santa Fe, Federal, and Hampden are typically very busy streets, most of the side streets aren't as congested and hectic. This is a busy area of town, although there are golf courses and parks all about. There are some streets with fabulous older trees, probably dating back well over 100 years. When I think of Sheridan, I typically think of a well established, older neighborhood. Just to the west of Sheridan is Ft. Logan cemetery, and you'll also find Mullen High School here, a private high school that started back in 1931. Although it started as a strictly boys schools, girls were allowed to attend in 1989. Mullen is known as one of the best academic high schools in the state. They also have a great football program and have made it to state numerous times.

Overall this older Denver suburb has a lot of good amenities nearby. There are some great hospitals (Swedish and Craig's), a really great YMCA, close access to the mountains, and numerous places to shop.

Many of the houses here are on the smaller side compared to today's standard. Many are made of brick and have been around for well over 50 years, and due to their quality construction will probably be around another 50 as well. A lot of the homes here have detached garages, which look almost as if they were an afterthought (maybe they were?). There are a lot of long time residents living here and many friendly folks have known their neighbors for years.
Pros
  • older, quality built homes
  • quick access to the mountains via 285
Cons
  • a little run down looking in some areas
  • high traffic streets
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
Just now

"A step back in time"

I have always thought of Mead as a potential place I'd like to live. When you drive through town it reminds you of years gone by where things moved a little slower and the hustle and bustle of life wasn't quite so present. This tiny ranching community has all the things you'd expect from a small town of only 3,775 residents. This rural area plays host to acres of farmland and crops, silos, several churches and a great bar-b-que restaurant. Outside of a few other businesses and the post office, there isn't too much to Mead.

Those who live in the older part of town typically have charming little homes which were built years ago, each with its own character and style. The homes in Mead for the most part are immaculate and the landscaping is truly beautifully done. People living here tend to take pride in their homes and it truly shows. Mead also has subdivisions with newer homes and there are some big, nice custom homes outside of town as well. The typical income in Mead is higher than the state average, but the housing prices reflect this as well.

As with most small towns in Colorado (and probably everywhere) there is a low crime rate. Outside of the farmers and people who work in town, many folks commute for work. Longmont is just a short drive as are a few other nearby towns. There is a high concentration of white residents (87%) with many of them hailing from German ancestry.

For potential residents checking this area out, the schools are above average and the middle school gets some of the highest marks in the state, both from a testing standpoint and parental ratings. The schools fall within the St. Vrain Valley School District. The local parks are a lot like the landscaping here: immaculate and tidy looking. There are also some great views of the mountains. I think this would be a great little town to call home for those looking to raise children or who want to live a simpler life and be out of the busy cities nearby.
Pros
  • close to Longmont
  • great views of mountains to west
Cons
  • fairly far from Denver for commuting
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
Just now

"An affordable option to Colorado Springs"

Cimarron Hills is located just east of Colorado Springs and for the most part is a quiet little suburb of the much busier and larger city to the west. Cimarron Hills is filled with mostly single family homes with a few condos and apartments thrown in the mix. The schools located here are about average when you look at test scores and parental reviews. Although there aren't a lot of amenities here, you can find just about anything you need within a short driving distance. For those who prefer public transportation there are more than a few bus stops located throughout the neighborhoods.

The area is quiet and clean looking and you can see the mountains from more than a few locations here. The median family income is $51,000 which is about $4,000 less than the Colorado average, although you can get a home here for almost $60,000 below the state average, making the cost of living in Cimarron Hills pretty good.

Overall this would be a good, less expensive area for anyone who works in the Springs and wants to live in a primarily family-based neighborhood.
Pros
  • less expensive housing
  • some pretty views
  • decent schools
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 5/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 5/5
  • Nightlife 5/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 5/5
  • Gym & Fitness 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 4/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 4/5
Just now

"A great stopping point on any itinerary"

Santa Fe has long been one of my favorite places to visit. I first went there about 15 years ago on business and fell in love immediately.There is a great, laid-back feel to it and it's paradise for anyone who loves to explore shops, art and culture for hours on end. It's also a great location for outdoor enthusiasts, with great hiking trails for different levels of fitness, river rafting, plenty of parks to enjoy the sunshine, and unlimited locations to bike to. There's also camping, boating, fishing and other water sports at the nearby Cochiti Recreation Area. Within about a 40 minute drive are several locations which have ancient petroglyphs. Ranger stations and visitor centers offer numerous books on the area and you can find interpretation of the petroglyphs in small, easy to carry books for just a few dollars. Short hikes provide a look back into time like few other places can offer.

Santa Fe boasts over 250 art galleries and there is something for everyone here. Paintings, sculptures, photography, pottery, textiles and jewelry abound in art galleries featuring local and famous artists. Visitors can find an abundance of Native American art, with every other kind in the mix right up to contemporary. In downtown Santa Fe there are numerous shops, restaurants and galleries to explore. As you walk along outside of the adobe buildings there are always chili pepper strands hanging out to dry, which lend to the Native American feel of the city. Whether you're a typical tourist looking for a t-shirt or a more selective buyer looking for the perfect gift to take to someone back home, this place has it. One thing I would highly recommend seeking out while you're here is the incredible Native American jewelry made out of silver and turquoise. Even if you're not a fan of turquoise the silver pieces are stunning. I find myself leaving with several bracelets every time I'm down there. Often while you're walking about downtown you can meet with the sellers who work directly with the artisans and they are more than willing to talk with you at length about the artist who created your piece. You can tell the pride they take in their work as every item seems to be unique, flawless, and beautiful.

Although there is world class cuisine in Santa Fe, you're just as likely to find a small hole in the wall diner that has some of the best Mexican food this side of the border. I've eaten in many places in Santa Fe and can't think of one place I wouldn't go back to. There are even a couple of culinary schools here that offer classes to the general public. For those with a passion for photography, the Santa Fe Workshops is the place to go. This small school offers week long intensive classes for those interested in photography and the visual arts. You'll find world-renown teachers (think National Geographic, etc.) who take a week from their busy schedules to teach students from all over the world. The school also offers remote classes in different locations around the world. However, if you decide to take a local workshop, there is no lack of beauty in Santa Fe to feast your lens on. From ancient ruins to the worlds oldest church structure still standing to the beauty of the sky with clouds you can almost touch, Santa Fe is like a kaleidoscope of colors to feast your eyes on.

There are numerous museums to visit with everything from art to history, although you can see history still standing at the San Miguel Mission which was built sometime between 1610 and 1626. Although it burned down, it was completely rebuilt in 1710, so still quite old for a church in the U.S.

Santa Fe has approximately 69,000 residents although it never really feels that big to me. The only real drawback to Santa Fe is the crime rate which is almost always higher than the national average, although it is typically non-violent crime such as auto theft and burglary. The schools here are overall pretty good, with more than a few getting top marks across the board. Although there can be a little traffic on some roads it is certainly bearable when compared to larger cities. Compared to the rest of New Mexico, it's pretty costly to live in Santa Fe, although it's still good when you compare it to the rest of the nation.

If given the opportunity, I would highly recommend visiting Santa Fe. The city offers so much and has incredible hospitality. The people are friendly and you can't help but want to go back as soon as possible to find more hidden gems to explore.
Pros
  • over 250 art galleries
  • friendly people
  • great restaurants
Recommended for
  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Tourists
  • LGBT+
  • Hipsters
  • Students
  • Trendy & Stylish
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
Just now

"A place for horses and a little peace and quiet"

Growing up I had more than a few friends who lived in Ponderosa Hills. Many of the homes were built in the mid 70s, although there are newer ones scattered about. They are all on property, with about five or so acres. It's a quiet area with Inspiration being the busiest street as it takes residents down into the town of Parker. Although this is a strictly residential area, shopping, dining, and numerous amenities are within just a 5-10 minute drive. This would be a good area for someone who may want a horse or two and feel like they are out of the city, but still have everything within a quick drive.
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 2/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 2/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Public Transport 4/5
  • Medical Facilities 5/5
Just now

"A great part of Denver"

University is aptly named due to the University of Denver, a private university located here. The Iliff School of Theology is also here as well. I am often in this neighborhood as I enjoy a good game of hockey and other than the Avalanche, the Richie Center at DU is the best place to see one. As a visitor to the area I get frustrated with the traffic on University and especially when you come off of I-25 it can be a nightmare at rush hour. However, if you're willing to pay a few bucks there are plenty of parking lots open during the game and sometimes on a weekend night you can find street parking. For anyone interested in seeing a game at Richie Center (all the college sports teams play there), the arena is really nice and extremely clean compared to other venues. I guess that's par for the course since it's a private university.

When I was younger one of my best friends attended DU and I'd often visit her in the dorms, which I'd say were average. When she moved out she lived in a nice older home in the neighborhood and many of those older brick homes are still there, commanding a hefty price. The neighborhood itself has tons of large, older shade trees and beautiful brick homes they just don't make anymore. There are a ton of small cafes and restaurants within walking distance, but you need to take heed at night. This area unfortunately has a higher crime rate when compared to many other similar areas, and a lot of it seems to be opportunistic crime and assault. It's not unusual for University to be on the news with a reporter telling residents to be on the lookout for someone.

Another good thing about University is its location. Just a sort drive to Denver or shopping further south. It's also really close to Washington Park, one of the best parks in all of Denver. People who live in University tend to really like it and are more than willing to pay a higher price to live here. Although things do quiet down a bit at night, there is always something going on, as is normal for an area with such a strong presence of college aged kids.
Pros
  • gorgeous homes
  • beautiful tree-lined streets
  • Feels like a vibrant university town
  • Great quality of life
  • Lots to do!
Recommended for
  • Trendy & Stylish
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 1/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 2/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
Just now

"Mostly a business area"

Parker North is comprised of mainly businesses that line Parker Road. You can find doctor's offices, dentists and orthodontists, gas stations, a Dairy Queen, and a bank. There is also a fire station. However, on the furthest southeast corner there are some homes in a small neighborhood. These single family homes go for around the mid $200,000s and many were built in the 80s. This area along Parker Road is busy with traffic and Parker Road can get backed up around here during peak travel times.
Pros
  • lower priced homes for Parker
Cons
  • busy area
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
Just now

"A well established neighborhood in Parker"

Rowley Downs has been a staple in Parker for many years. There are some homes here that date back to the 70s although the majority were built in the 80s with new additions still coming in the 90s. The yards are all well groomed and overall it is a very neat and clean looking subdivision. The main road is a large loop with streets connected to it. The homes are all single family and range from three bedroom to five and start around the mid $300s (unless they are a foreclosure or short sale). The front yards are well tended and the back yards are decent sized.

Although there are no businesses in the neighborhood, there is a ton of shopping and dining within just several minutes. The neighborhood itself is quiet, but located in a busier area of Parker. The schools here are all very good as well. There is a relatively new hospital in Parker which is only about 10 minutes away as is a lot of other amenities, such as a couple of rec centers.
Pros
  • quiet
  • well kept
  • nice older homes
Cons
  • traffic is an issue on nearby streets
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
Just now

"A gorgeous area"

Several years back when my husband and I were considering moving we looked into Idyllwilde. Whoever developed this area did a really great job. Instead of bulldozing the land and rearranging the landscape, they chose to incorporate the natural beauty of the area into the setting. There are rolling hills with tons of Evergreen trees and the homes, although some are close together, have enough open space around them to make it feel as if you're not right on top of your neighbors like in some areas. There is a really nice clubhouse with a pool and it seemed to me as if there was a good dose of neighborly spirit.

When we were looking, homes were in the neighborhood of $350,00-$500,000 range, although those numbers may have changed. While it seems almost as if you're in the mountains because of the scenery, Idyllwilde is close to many amenities. A good variety of shopping and dining options are within a few minutes and Parker Road leads to either the Tollway or you can take Lincoln up to I-25. The schools here are really good as well.
Pros
  • great schools
  • pretty area
  • nice homes
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Open space and room for horses"

Growing up in Parker we had friends that lived in Ponderosa East. The area really hasn't changed much since then, and it is still a very nice area. The homes here are all on a bit of property, about five acres for most, and many residents own horses. The homes are all unique looking and vary in size. Homes in this area are currently going from anywhere around the mid $200s to almost $800,000, depending on the home and amount of acreage. There are some gorgeous newer homes and most of the lots are full of evergreen and pine trees.

As with other neighborhoods in this part of Parker, it's about five or six miles to shopping and dining, but there are two completely different directions you can go, offering residents a lot of choices. The schools kids go to here are very good and rank really high. This would be the perfect spot for someone wanting to feel away from it all, but still wanting to be close to amenities.
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Some great views"

Until recently, Smoky Hill Trail Estates was a quiet area with only a handful of homes, most built in the late 60s to early 70s. These homes are off the beaten path and unless you drive over a hill on a little side street you wouldn't even know they're there if it weren't for all the mailboxes lined up on Inspiration. However, there has been a lot of activity here recently with new homes going in on the southeastern side of the boundary. The newer homes are like the older ones in that they are all on good sized lots, and this area is so high up on Inspiration that there are some incredible views of the mountain ranges, from Pikes Peak all the way to Long's Peak. What's surprising about these new homes going up is that although they are larger than many in the area, they aren't huge like you'd imagine for the views they have and how Parker's real estate can get so costly.

Although the homes here are just a few minutes from Cherokee Trail High School, the property lies within Douglas County so the kids have to travel a bit farther for school. The trip down Inspiration is pretty quick to get to Parker and during the winter this is one of the streets they keep very well maintained. For shopping or dining, residents could just as easily head to Centennial via N. Piney Lake Road where there is a ton of shopping and dining options.

Being a strictly residential area, there are no stores or restaurants here, but you do get a lot of wildlife. There are frequently deer, rabbits, and foxes running about. Many people around here have horses and there's always a ton of family pets. This is a quiet area that would be a nice place to retire or have a few animals and garden.
Pros
  • incredible views
  • good school district
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"Gorgeous homes on lovely property"

I can remember as a young girl going to what is now Ponderosa Summit and exploring for hours on end. We lived just across Tomahawk Road and when I was little there were no homes here. It was just a very large piece of land that had great hills, valleys, and trees to explore. Every summer the fields would be covered with gorgeous orange hues from the Indian Paintbrush flowers scattered about. I used to pull out the little inner tubes and suck on the ends which had a sweet nectar inside of them. There was also an abundance of cacti, so you always had to be careful. As I got older I'd often ride my horse here, just strolling along the faint trails at a leisurely pace. I can remember the land coming up for sale and my mom wanting to buy it. My father would ask why she wanted it and they would argue about whether or not it was a good investment. Looking back, now that there are million dollar homes here, it probably would have been a good investment.

Speaking of the pricey homes, there is one in particular that always catches my eye. It's near Inspiration Drive right off Summit Ridge Road to the west. It has rock walls and a turret and reminds me of a small castle. I love looking at this home so much, I stopped one time to ask if they minded if I got the name of their builder. The sweet lady who lived there told me her husband, a lawyer by trade, designed it. She was kind enough to show me around the main floor and it is as spectacular on the inside as it is on the outside. The entrance is grand in an almost commanding way. I can only imagine most of the homes here are just as wonderful. I know of one that has an outdoor pool and is also very nice. Each home here is costly, but unique. They are all on a bit of land which I would guess to be at least five or so acres. There are still trails weaving in and out around the homes and people will often take their dogs for a walk or ride their horses here, just like I used to.

The area is only about five miles from the town of Parker, so shopping and dining are close by. The only drawback to this area lies on the western side of the subdivision. There are those large, really tall electrical towers which some think can cause long term damage to those who live close to them. Outside of that, I think that for the money this is a great place to live. A few of the homes on the western side have great views of the mountains and those that are on the eastern side have some pretty scenic things to look at as well. There are a lot of deer in the area, along with rabbits and the occasional fox. For those with children they go to Douglas County School District which is very good, and the high school is Chaparral. Overall, Ponderosa Summit is beautiful and worth looking into if you can afford it.
Pros
  • gorgeous homes
  • scenic views
  • peaceful and quiet
Cons
  • not for the faint of pocketbook
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"A nice, quiet subdivision close to many things"

When I first saw the development of Rockinghorse going up, I was kind of sad. They tore out a few older homes and one was where one of my childhood friends lived on some property. So needless to say, I wasn't too thrilled with the new development. Since that time, I've found that I really like the new area a lot more than I ever imagined I would. It's a very clean and neat neighborhood and the houses are just lovely. Although most are unique there are some that exhibit a similar layout. It's pricey to live here, as most of the homes go for about 1/2 million. The area isn't crowded yet, but I have a feeling that more homes will be built soon on the western side of the area. I bet the homes on the top of the hill have a great view of Pikes Peak.

Although there are no businesses in the neighborhood, the people living here have the unique advantage of being equally close to both Parker and Centennial. The kids who live here go to Douglas County Schools, which are highly rated and the high school is Chaparral. Overall I really like this area, but think that for the price, there may be better options with more land.
Pros
  • great homes
  • close to both Parker and Centennial
  • very neat and clean looking
Cons
  • expensive homes
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 2/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 4/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 2/5
Just now

"A lot to do in a little area"

O'Brien Park Road is near Main Street and Parker Road in a very busy little area. There is a lot to do right here for children and adults alike. The O'Brien Park has a great big play area with two large playgrounds for kids of all ages. There are also baseball fields and the O'Brien Water Park which is a great place to visit in the summer. They have two water slides, a water play park for kids, and a good sized pool. There are covered areas with picnic tables and a large area to rent for summertime birthdays or parties.

Just across the street is an ice cream shop, more than a few shops, and several bars and restaurants. This area always seems to be busy with people milling about and enjoying the park with the gazebo or eating at one of the many restaurants here. I love this part of town, especially in the winter around Christmastime. There are these very large trees (I would think close to 100 years old) the town decorates with these huge snowflake lights and the poles along this area are all decorated nicely as well.

O'Brien Park Road also leads to a lot of housing when traveling northbound and around the curve. There are town homes and condos just off of Victorian Drive and they have all that O'Brien Park Road has to offer within walking distance. Although there are no homes on the road itself, this is a nice area that I wouldn't mind living near.
Pros
  • lots to do
  • great park & water park
  • pretty during the holidays
Cons
  • traffic can get bad
Recommended for
  • Tourists
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
Just now

"Far from the Front Range, but a nice place to call home"

Meeker has a small population of just over 2,500 and is located in the northwest quadrant of Colorado. Although near the mountains, Meeker is flat for the most part but you can see hills all around. Some areas are filled with Evergreen trees and green all year long, whereas other areas of Meeker have a lot of boulders and sagebrush along with dirt and tumbleweeds, giving it an almost old west feel. Some of the hills you drive through going into the town remind me of the Bookcliffs in Grand Junction, but on a much smaller scale.

Some of the homes just outside of Meeker are large and custom built and many were built out of logs to better blend into the scenery. As you enter town, there are some mobile homes and small houses. Most of the businesses in Meeker lie along State Hwy. 789, and a good number of the residents work in mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction followed by construction. The average household income in Meeker is $48,896 and you can buy an average, single family detached home here for around $193,615.

For anyone who likes small town living, this would be a nice place to call home. Although it's remote, there are a lot of outdoor activities to keep one busy. Hunting is popular as is mountain biking, wildlife viewing (including wild horses), snowmobiling, cross country skiing, and ice fishing. One drawback to winter sports here is the amount of avalanches, so it's imperative to let people know where and when you're going somewhere, especially if it's in the nearby mountains.

The town's population is primarily white and tends to vote conservative. The crime rate is very low, although when there is crime it tends to be non-violent, things such as burglary and theft, although the occasional barroom brawl does happen. Meeker also has a traditionally low unemployment rate, especially when compared to the rest of the state.

Geographically speaking, Meeker has a higher rate of earthquakes when compared to the rest of Colorado, although they still aren't of a significant magnitude.

The writer Verlyn Klinkenborg was born in Meeker in 1952 and has written many non-fiction novels such as The Rural Life and The Last Fine Time.
Pros
  • beautiful scenery
  • remote
Cons
  • remote
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
Just now

"Grand Lake really is grand"

Grand Lake, Colorado is a wonderful small mountain town which lies next to a very large lake, hence the name of the town. There are numerous homes here all spread out and the town is definitely geared towards catering to tourists who come here to fish, hunt, and just explore the great outdoors Colorado has to offer. Although there are only 452 residents, there are numerous bars and cafes in town, many of which are highly recommended. The entire town is considered 'rural' and many of the homes have a great view of the lake out their back door. Driving through town you don't see many buildings that look out of place, as many are built from wood and really blend into the beautiful scenery all around.

Every time I've been to Grand Lake I've had the same feeling. Why don't I live here?? The townspeople couldn't be friendlier, the area is just beautiful, there are so many things to do here, and life just seems to move a bit slower. Although Grand Lake would be a wonderful place to live, it is also a great place to visit. The one drawback of Grand Lake is the cost of living. An average home here goes for about $365,903 which is much higher than the state average (by about $105,000), however, the median household income is lower than the state average by about $5,000.

Many of the residents work in accommodation and food services due to the many cabins and lodging options available to tourists. The next common industry is construction. Although the jobs seem to be here, because they are lower paying, almost 31% of the residents are living in poverty. The rate of unemployment in Grand Lake is also higher than in the rest of the state, although that peaked in 2011 like many areas of the country.

I would recommend anyone who is considering visiting Colorado take a look at Grand Lake, especially those who are into the outdoors. There are also some cute little touristy type of shops in town, cafes and local bars. For those who want a bit of culture while visiting, Grand Lake also has the wonderful Rocky Mountain Repertory Theater which has performances throughout the summer. Overall, Grand Lake is the perfect place to get away to.
Pros
  • scenic beauty
  • friendly townspeople
  • tons of outdoor activities
Cons
  • expensive homes
  • higher than average poverty rate
Recommended for
  • Tourists
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
Just now

"A quick stop on I-70"

Gypsum, Colorado is a lovely area just off of I-70. It lies roughly between Vail and Glenwood Springs, so there are a lot of fun things to do close by, such as hiking, skiing, camping, hot springs, and more. The population of Gypsum is currently 6,515 with the majority being white at 53% and the next largest race being Hispanic at just shy of 45%. The average household income here is $78,519 which is over $20,000 higher than the state average. However, buying a home in Gypsum is much more costly than in other parts of the state as well. As of 2012, the average home price was $378,738. Many of the residents work in construction and educational services.

I've been through and in Gypsum many times and I've always thought it would be a nice place to live. There's so much to do in this part of the state and from what I've witnessed, the townspeople all seem very friendly. The homes tend to get nicer the farther you get from the interstate and there are some really beautiful ones here. Although pricey, I would certainly consider living here.
Pros
  • scenic
  • friendly townspeople
  • beautiful homes
Cons
  • expensive
4/5 rating details
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
Just now

"A good, safe area to stop at if you're traveling through"

Garden of the Gods Road has a lot of restaurants and gas stations for locals or those who are traveling down I-25 who need to stop. There are some incredibly pretty views and the area always seems very clean, safe, and sound. Although not directly connected to Garden of the Gods, the park is just a short drive over and well worth the extra few minutes to see this amazing rock park that has walking trails around it.
Pros
  • always clean looking
  • plenty of food/gas options
  • safe
Recommended for
  • Tourists
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
Just now

"A nice little town within commuting distance"

Erie is a small town that lies just west of I-25. There are some nice farming areas around the town and many of the homes in town are smaller and have been there for many years. There are also some newer areas, which have some very nice homes and are the reason the median priced home is so high in Erie ($325,174). There are also some residents who commute to Boulder and Denver as many work in professional, scientific and technical services. The median household income in Erie is $107,064 which is almost double what it is for the rest of the state.

The area itself is pretty and the cute little homes in town lie along tree lined streets. The old town hall is a cool brick building and there is a nice community vibe here. The location is great for anyone who needs to work in the city but wants to feel away from it all when they are home. While there aren't a ton of restaurants, there is a good amount for a town of this size (pop. 19,272), and plenty within a decent driving distance. Overall, I think Erie would be a nice place to call home.
Pros
  • country living feel
  • more affordable than Boulder
  • nice communty feeling
  • centralized location
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
HeatherS
HeatherS I didnt realize that the annual household in Erie was about $100k/year thats a lot. And the folks are not snooty, Erie is a nice town:)
2yrs+
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3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 2/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
Just now

"True mountain living"

Deckers is an unincorporated town which lies at an elevation of 6,400 feet in central Colorado. Most natives know of Deckers for the incredible fly fishing that's available here along the South Platte River. Outside of a small convenience store/ice cream shop there isn't any shopping or dining unless you're staying at one of the bed and breakfast places. This is a hilly, mountainous area with mostly dirt roads and it can get tricky getting up there in the winter when there's been a lot of snow.

Some years back I had friends that lived in Deckers and it was always a nice, peaceful weekend when I went up there. You can hear the wind blowing through the trees and if you're lucky enough to live by the river, you've got an ideal spot. I think that overall you'd have to be pretty dedicated to living the quiet life to settle in Deckers. Although it's really pretty, it is a bit remote for some people.
Pros
  • peace and quiet
  • great fly fishing
  • friendly people
Cons
  • a bit remote
Recommended for
  • Tourists
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A great location for living and recreation"

Superior is a nice area with plenty of shopping and single family homes. The great thing about this town is the location. It's close enough to both Denver and Boulder to commute, yet it lies near the base of the Rockies, so there is quick access to heading up to the mountains for all of the recreational adventures there are. There is a ton of shopping at Flatirons Mall and at strip malls. There are a lot of restaurants to choose from as well. The town has some great parks and has always seemed to be a friendly, welcoming place to raise a family.
Pros
  • easy access to shopping and dining
  • great trail systems
  • near Boulder and Denver
  • less covenants and restrictions
Cons
  • soil issues / settling
  • mostly a bedroom community
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
Just now

"A less expensive alternative to Colorado Springs"

A lot of the homes is Stratmoor are beginning to show the signs of aging in this older community. On the west side of the highway, the homes are all mostly single family and although the same is true for the east side of the highway, they tend to a bit smaller on the east. There are some very cute starter homes on the east side which give the appearance of being newer. The average home price in Stratmoor is $138,034 which is quite a bit lower than the state average. The average household income levels here are lower as well, at about $34,903. This may be in part due to the fact that many residents here are in the military and of those who aren't, many work in accommodation and food service.

One drawback to Stratmoor is that it lies on either side of I-25, so there is noise from the highway. The highway doesn't really get too backed up here though because it is a ways out of Colorado Springs. There are nice views of the mountains in some areas and in some of the neighborhoods on the western side you feel cozy with the foothills right outside your window. Although many of the homes are showing signs of aging, there are a few here and there that are real eyesores and it's too bad the city doesn't address them as it would help the area overall.

Stratmoor may be the perfect solution for those who work in Colorado Springs but need less expensive housing than you can find there.
Pros
  • affordable housing
  • some cute starter homes on the east side
  • close to Kit Carson for personnel
Cons
  • along the Interstate
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
Just now

"Great Area for a Variety of Outdoor Activities"

South Fork is a small town in Southern Colorado which has a population of only 376. The town gained notoriety in the movie National Lampoon's Vacation as the Griswald family stopped in South Fork to spend the night at a campground there. Although the area is lush with plenty of trees and beautiful, this area has the typical Alpine climate with hot summers that can turn briskly cold after sunset and nights in the winter sporting temps below zero. Not for the faint of heart…

The population is primarily white and many of the residents work in retail or accommodation and food service. This is a popular area for vacationers, resulting in this type of work. Although the income level here is lower than many other areas of the state, you can also purchase a home here for a little less. Many of the homes are spread out and on some acreage, offering a great place to raise horses or other small farm animals. A lot of the residents here have taken the time to build homes that blend into the scenery instead of detract from it, which is neat. Some of the luckier residents live next to the Rio Grande River and have great properties with fishing and incredible views.
Pros
  • scenic
  • tons of outdoor activities
  • friendly people
Cons
  • cold winters
Recommended for
  • Tourists
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
Just now

"A Great Place to Visit"

St. Mary's is one of those small, hidden gems of Colorado. In addition to the excellent hiking in the beautiful mountains of Colorado, there is a really great atmosphere up here. The St. Mary's Glacier hike is well worth the drive and energy expended to get up the mountain. The surrounding views are spectacular and the drive up to the town is scenic. For visitors interested in Colorado history, there is the small ghost town of Alice here. There is even a small museum at the old schoolhouse.

The town itself is small with only 283 residents, most of who work in retail or construction. The median household income is $46,558 and a lot of the town's residents live in the Silver Lake Condominiums. The condos, being cheaper than houses bring down the average housing price quite a bit here.

Overall I would recommend St. Mary's for tourists or Coloradans who just want to get away for a while.
Pros
  • good cost of living
Recommended for
  • Tourists
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
Just now

"A One Light Town"

PIne Junction is a small town that lies along Hwy. 285 about 25 minutes SW of Denver. The homes here are all spread out with lots of trees growing along the streets. Most of the residents here know each other and there is definitely a sense of small town community here. There are a couple of small shops, but for the most part residents need to travel elsewhere for food and groceries. Conifer is just about 10-15 minutes away and is where the Pine Junction kids go to school, although the elementary lies between the two towns.

Depending on what you're looking for, you can find homes in a variety of price ranges here. In 'town' they go for around the low to mid $200 range, but you can find homes upwards of $700,000 not too far away. This sleepy little town would be a nice place to raise kids and although you could commute for work to Denver, it may not be practical, especially during the winter.
Pros
  • small community feel
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 1/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"An Older Suburb of Denver"

Edgewater lies just west of Sloan's Lake in north Denver. This suburb has been around for a long time and has many long time residents still living here after many years, giving it a real sense of community. Most of the homes are older and were built in the 1950s although some date back to the beginning of the century. Although these homes are much older than in some neighborhoods, they still command a pretty price. Some of the smaller two bedroom/one bath homes go for over $200,000 while the larger homes can get upwards close to $450,000 mark. The streets are lined with old, large shade trees which are very nice in the summer time. However, since many of the homes are older they don't come with garages, so there is a lot of cars parked on the street.

Although there really aren't any restaurants within the borders of Edgewater, other than a Taco Bell, there are a lot of choices for both shopping and dining very near by. Some of the main roads near the suburb are major arteries, such as Sheridan and Colfax, which can get very busy during peak travel times. For those who like to head into the mountains, heading up Colfax to I-70 is a pretty straight shot and can get you to skiing within a decent time frame.
Pros
  • community feel
  • Sloan Lake
Cons
  • traffic on surrounding streets
HeatherS
HeatherS I really like Edgewater and the old trees make it feel more like neighborhoods back east more than many other Denver suburbs/neighborhoods
2yrs+
HeatherS
HeatherS yeah Edgewater is unique and I can believe there are some older residents that have been there for many decades:) Not a bad place to grow up close to
2yrs+
HeatherS
HeatherS Where in the country did your folks move to? In Colorado?
2yrs+
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2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 1/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
Just now

"A Trip Back in Time"

Being in Eads is much like what you'd think it would be like living back in the 50s or 60s. Things here just move at a slower place. When you travel down main street, the street is wide with lots of room like they used to make roads a long time ago, and the building are all brick. The homes are all smaller and charming, many with pretty gardens and lovely patios. They all have a unique look and there are sidewalks in front, and you can often see residents walking around.

Around Eads there are a lot of farms and agriculture is the second largest industry here behind health care and social assistance. There is a very small hospital in Eads which doubles as a nursing home on one side. There are a couple of doctors in town as well.

The current population of Eads is 622. One good thing about these small, self-sufficient towns is that when the economy turns down like it did in 2010, fewer people seem to lose their livelihood. Although the median household income here is well below the state average, you can get a very charming home in town for around $55,000. This town would be a great place to raise kids for those who want to get away but still be part of a community.
Pros
  • very affordable land/homes
Cons
  • far from Front Range
  • very remote
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 2/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 4/5
Just now

"A cool place to visit or live"

I've always liked Grand Junction, from the first time I visited when I was really young. This town of 60,000 often seems bigger than it is, and it has been and probably will always be very diverse. There are plenty of residential neighborhoods, but there's also a lot of homes on several acres, and also large farms and ranches. Grand junction is known for the incredible amount of fruit grown here and also the amount of wine produced.

For the outdoorsy folk there's tons to do up here. There are a lot of mountain biking trails, hiking, camping, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and even hunting. The Colorado River runs along I-70 for part of the way here and you can see it trailing off to the southern side of Grand Junction. The Book Cliff Mountains are really something to see. They almost look like mountains made of sand and the last time I was passing through I saw a group climbing one of them, which I didn't know people could do. It's also a short drive to Colorado National Monument, which has some unique and beautiful mesas and canyons. Much of the land surrounding Grand Junction is BLM land, which is public land.

The largest industry here is health care and social assistance, followed by education and construction. The cost of living in Grand Junction isn't really good though. Although housing prices are comparable with the rest of the state, the median income is almost $10,000 less. The crime rate here is also pretty high compared to a lot of other Colorado cities. It's often higher than national averages in several categories.

One thing I really like about Grand Junction is some of the older buildings. Settlers arrived in the area in the 1880s and there are still some very cool, older buildings still standing. The city got its name because the Colorado River and Gunnison River both meet here.

I've had several friends who have attended college here and really liked it. Although I no longer get to Grand Junction very often, it definitely has an appeal for me. If my husband or I had to move there for work, I wouldn't think twice about it as it's a cool place with tons to do.
Pros
  • both country and city
  • hiking and camping
  • wine country
Cons
  • not a lot of nightlife
Recommended for
  • Tourists
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 2/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
Just now

"A small town on the Eastern plains"

Simla is a small rural town on the Eastern plains of Colorado and as of 2012 there were 619 residents. With such a small population in Simla, there aren't many amenities. Some of the homes are on property outside of town, but the ones in town are small, with some being mobile homes. There is a small cafe, a couple of places to fill up, and a meat locker. Other than a few other small businesses there isn't much here.

The average household income in Simla is $29,555 and the largest industries are health care and social assistance, followed by construction. The average median priced home here is $97,252, which is much lower than the state's average.
Pros
  • close knit community
  • low housing prices
Cons
  • few jobs
  • no amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
Just now

"A nice little Colorado town"

Lyons is a nice little Colorado town that is a lot like you'd imaging a small Colorado town to be like. There are some very cute homes here with nice yards and very friendly neighbors. There are a few little shops in town, one that specializes in Indian art which is really cool, and a couple of restaurants and a little grocers.

The area itself is pretty with lots of trees and parks. Some streets have a sidewalk on one side and a few of the houses have little picket fences. It's a pretty close drive to Boulder and Estes Park for larger shopping or dining.

The median household income here is well above the state average and comes in around $72,812, but the homes and land up here are expensive as well. A median sized family home goes for around $318,749 which is over the state average by almost $100,000. The residents here work in a large variety of industries, with no one industry standing out.

The schools here all get excellent ratings. There is a small elementary and a combined middle/high school. They rate high on state standardized tests as well as parental opinion.

Overall, I think Lyons would be a great place to live and raise a family. The people are friendly, the scenery is pretty, and the atmosphere laid back and welcoming.
Pros
  • pretty area
  • Mix of Housing Options
  • Outdoor Recreation
  • Sense of Community
Cons
  • Limited Inventory of Homes For Sale/Rent
  • Limited Shopping/Nightlife
Recommended for
  • Trendy & Stylish
2/5 rating details
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
Just now

"Not a residential area"

Dransfeldt Road is a long road in Parker which has numerous businesses on it. There are auto body shops, grooming salons, a police station, and other types of businesses. This isn't a residential area, though.
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"A good, established subdivision"

Clarke Farms is a nice, family-oriented subdivision located just west of Parker Road in the town of Parker. The homes are all single family and have decent sized yards and backyards. Many of these homes were built in the 80s and are in good shape, with many of the residents taking good care of the yards and landscaping.The schools here are good and Cherokee Trail Elementary is located within the neighborhood in walking distance of the houses. My oldest daughter went to school there for a couple of years and I was very impressed with her teachers, who I believe are still there.

There isn't any traffic within the neighborhood, but Jordan Road can get busy as can Lincoln Avenue for residents trying to get West to I-25. Just north of the subdivision by a couple of miles is the tollway for quicker access to either I-25 or out east heading towards DIA. While there are no businesses (with the exception of a martial arts school) or restaurants in the neighborhood, there are options going in almost every direction. There are numerous stores close by, and Park Meadows Mall is only about a 15 minute drive away. The subdivision is also very close to a bike trail that goes west to Littleton or down south to Franktown. It's well maintained and a very pretty ride the whole way. The Parker Rec Center is also just across Lincoln Avenue and offers many classes, a large gym, swimming pool, and workout equipment.

Overall I think this would be a good area for people to live in if they worked in the area or somewhere close, such as the Denver Tech Center. The people seem to be friendly and there are many things to do nearby.
Pros
  • close to many restaurants and businesses
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 5/5
Just now

"A great place to raise children"

I grew up the better part of my childhood in Black Forest Estates in east Parker. The homes here are single family and each one is on about five acres. The land itself here is very pretty with tons of rolling hills, pine trees, and wildlife all around. My mom still lives here and frequently has deer, rabbits, and a huge variety of birds around. About ten years ago there was a mountain lion spotted in the area, but no one knew where he came from or where he ended up. Many of the families who live here have been here for years and know each other. You can often find the neighbors helping each other out with plowing after a big snowstorm or just checking in on one another throughout the year. It eases my mind to know my mom has some really great neighbors, since she's getting older and I live about an hour away.

Some of the residents here have horses or other small farm animals. Although a few head of cattle are allowed, you rarely see them anymore. On the outskirts of Black Forest Estates there is some newer construction, but most of the homes here were built in the 70s and 80s. They are all unique, with no two looking alike.

Since Black Forest Estates is a strictly residential area, there are no stores or restaurants to speak of. Whether you take Inspiration Drive or head down to Main Street to get into the town of Parker, it's about five miles either way. When you get into the town there are numerous restaurants and stores with anything you need really. If you take the back way (Inspiration Drive heading East) you can easily get to Southlands which is only about 10 minutes away. This gives residents another great option for shopping and dining.

For families that have children, the schools for this area are very good, all of them located in Douglas County School District. The high school is Chaparral which is a newer high school that has been built since I left. When I lived here we went to Ponderosa which is considerably farther away, although kids before me had to travel all the way to Castle Rock to go to Douglas County High School. During those days, the kids had over a one hour trip on the bus. As Parkers population continues to grow, so do the amount of high schools (and middle and elementary).

Overall, I think this would be a great place for those who would like to be away from the big city, but be close enough to have shopping and dining available nearby. The land is still just as fun to explore when you're a kid as it was back then. There are numerous plants and animals to see, such as Indian Paintbrush, cactus, deer, and foxes. Things out here seem to move a little bit slower and there's plenty of room for those who want to have a variety of animals to raise for fun or food.
Pros
  • pretty area
  • friendly neighbors
  • close to a lot of amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 2/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
Just now

"A dry, dusty area of Colorado"

Located just East of Canon City, Penrose is a small town with a population of 3,582 as of the last census. The population was 12% lower than the previous census, most likely from people moving due to job loss. The town itself does not have much to offer in the way of amenities, but it would be a convenient place for people who worked in Canon City or Florence as they are both within a 15 minute drive. There are several businesses in town, such as a Wells Fargo Bank, a barber shop, and a neighborhood market. Most of the homes are spread out, unlike many small towns in Colorado. Some yards are gated or fenced, but mostly it's just single family homes built up on streets without sidewalks or street lights.

The town, for the most part is white (88%) and tend to be more conservative. The median household income is $46,541 which is almost $10,000 less than the state average, but you can also get a single family home here for around $164,000 making the cost of living pretty good.

Penrose is one of those areas that doesn't have a lot of water in it, so it can get really hot and dry in the summers. The landscape is dotted with sagebrush and sandy dirt, while trees are few and far between. It almost has a high desert feel to it.
Pros
  • close to Canon City & Pueblo
Cons
  • hot hot summers
  • prisons
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 2/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 1/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 2/5
Just now

"A small stop along I-70"

Watkins was once called Box Elder because of the creek that used to run through it. Technically, the creek bed is still there but when there is water in it, it isn't much. There are currently 653 people living here according to the last census. Watkins isn't a typical town, not even a typical small one. It is divided by I-70 and lies in both Arapahoe and Adams County. On the Adams side there is a gas station, and two smaller restaurants, Biscuits Cafe and Lulu's. Biscuits is popular with many of the truck drivers who stop to get gas at the Tomahawk Gas Station, which accommodates large semis. Lulu's is a bit more upscale and has some really good food, but the prices are a bit high for what you get. They also often have bands playing on the weekends.

Also located on the Adams County side is a post office and O'Malley's Merchantile which offers all kinds of things to outfit ranches and farms. You can find poultry for sale and all types of feed. There are a few houses scattered about, some looking a bit run down until you get away from I-70. There is also a small motel for travelers who may have gotten stuck with I-70 being closed during any of the winter storms out this way.

On the Arapahoe County side of Watkins there is a large subdivision with some very nice homes, a firing range, and a business where you can board your dog. The homes are all spread out on a couple of acres and it's overall a quiet area.

The reason I say Watkins isn't really like a town is because there is no real central place with small businesses or a community center or anything like that. I always just think of it as a place to stop for gas and not much else. The post office here does process passports, which is a convenient place to go for many people living on the Eastern corridor, especially since there is almost never a line there.

There are no schools in Watkins as it's too small, so kids are bussed to the Bennett School District. There are no real shopping options in Watkins either, so residents have to trek to the Bennett King Soopers for groceries or head into Aurora. Watkins is quiet and for those who don't mind living next to a major interstate, it is a quick trip into town while still maintaining a somewhat rural feel. It's close to DIA and also the Front Range Airport.
Pros
  • easy access to I-70
Cons
  • not really a "town" per se
  • interstate traffic
  • no amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 5/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A great little town with great schools"

Timnath is a small town of 626 people. The population has blossomed since 2000 and has shown a growth rate of 180.7%. The popularity of the Front Range and many people moving to Colorado are most likely the cause of this. What used to be a small farming community has changed somewhat from a small town with farms dotting the area to some custom homes being built on large plots of land. The homes in town are very cute and look well manicured. The streets are clean and tree lined and very appealing to look at.

The largest industry in Timnath is finance and insurance. The median household income is $80,139 while the median average home price is $304,294. Timnath is also very well located for people who work in Ft. Collins, Windsor, Loveland, or Longmont. This quiet town would be a nice place to raise children and the two elementary schools here are very well rated.
Pros
  • close to Front Range
  • good schools
Cons
  • small
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 2/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 2/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"An area surrounded by industry"

Dupont lies right next to Derby and is a busy area which has a lot of industrial looking areas around it. It does lie adjacent to Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge which is a great place to visit if you want to do a nature walk or go to watch birds. There is no camping here, it is a place to go for a day outing only. The homes located in Derby are mostly single family, and depending on which street you're on, you can find some that are cookie cutter looking or on other streets you can find a variety of homes which are all different looking.

I personally don't care for this area as there are so many industrial areas around it. It is close to a lot of shopping and fast food restaurants though. Housing prices are modest compared to many areas of Colorado, and you can buy a detached home for around $174,000. The median household income here is lower as well. Many of the residents work in construction or the service industry.

Some of the yards are nicely tended while others look as if they haven't had any attention in quite some time. You can find a variety of fencing and in some areas it just looks a bit haphazard.
Pros
  • lower housing prices
Cons
  • not aesthetically pleasing
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 2/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"Not for everyone…."

Livermore is a small, spread out community in Northern Colorado, not far from the Wyoming border. There is no real town to speak of although you can find a small restaurant called the Western Ridge Restaurant and Resort and there's a small grocery/gas station along the highway. Many of the homes here are spread out and on some land. There are mostly single family homes, many with barns for horses and cattle, although you see the occasional mobile home also. There are no real amenities in town, but Fort Collins is less than a half an hour away and is large enough to offer many shopping and dining options.

Livermore is relatively close to Red Feather Lakes, which is a great place to get away and do some fishing or canoeing. It is also located just south of Red Mountain Open Space, which is a 15,000 acre space which has trailheads for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders to explore. It's open from March 2nd through November 30th of each year, and closes from December through March due to the weather.

Livermore may be a good place to buy land for those looking to have horses or to ranch. It's a bit remote so without much to do, it's not a place everyone would want to be. There are currently 5,370 residents spread out and there is a median household income of $59,321, which is a little higher than the state average. The median home price is $307,225 which is higher than the state average as well, but this is mainly due to the amount of land many of the homes are on. The town is predominantly white (over 94%) and the most popular industry is professional, scientific, and technical services.
Pros
  • quiet and peaceful
Cons
  • a bit remote
  • few amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A little gem neatly tucked away"

Columbine Valley is an upper middle class neighborhood just west of Santa Fe Drive next to Littleton. The homes here are all single family and fairly unique, unlike a lot of cookie cutter neighborhoods that are popular now. The homes are all very well tended with nice yards and large shade trees. The median priced home here runs about $664,813 and many of the residents work in professional, technical, and scientific services. The average household income in this area is $118,283, which is considerably higher than the state average.

The population in Columbine Valley is over 94% white. The area is very peaceful and has virtually no crime. There are numerous parks and lakes in the neighborhood and the east side border runs along the South Platte River. It is a really lovely area and when you're in the middle of it, it feels almost isolated from the busy areas that surround it. This would be a lovely neighborhood to raise a family in because of the low crime rate, good schools, and numerous parks and lakes.
Pros
  • very clean and green
  • nice, unique homes
  • almost zero crime
Cons
  • pricey homes
Recommended for
  • Trendy & Stylish
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A great little mountain town"

Granby is a great little mountain town located in Northern Colorado. It is close to many wonderful outdoor adventures for those serious about hiking, camping, fishing, boating, backpacking, and hunting. The town itself has just under 2,000 residents and many of the homes in town are small, single family homes which are fairly reasonably priced. You can also buy some land with gorgeous views and build yourself, although the property up here can get expensive.

Over 87% of the population here is white and the most popular industries are construction, followed by accommodation and food services. The median household income is right in line with the rest of the state, although the in town housing prices are about $30,000 lower than the rest of the state. When it comes to politics, the residents here are just about down the middle of the road when it comes to voting Republican or Democrat.

There are a lot of tourists to this area, but it's the nature of the beast being there is so much to do here, and since many of the residents make their living off of them. Overall, I think this would be a nice little town to call home.
Pros
  • Lake Granby
  • not too far from Front Range
  • Rocky Mountain National Forest
Cons
  • tourists
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 4/5
  • Medical Facilities 4/5
  • Schools 3/5
Just now

"A pleasant, quiet street"

Cook Street is a nice street with older brick buildings and large, beautiful shade trees. Considering it connects to Colfax, the street is quiet with little traffic. City Park is on the north end of the street and offers many things to do. Many of the residents know each other and have lived here for a long time. I was born just a couple of streets away at Mercy Medical Center, which is no longer there. East High School is just west of here, and it is a solid school. I would recommend this area for professionals who work in Denver or at one of the nearby hospitals. Buyer beware though, the homes here are pricey.
Pros
  • nice brick homes
  • large shade trees
Cons
  • expensive
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 2/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 4/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 4/5
  • Medical Facilities 5/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A great place to live or visit"

I've been going to City Park for years now. When I was younger we would always go to the zoo, and it's amazing to me that it has been opened since 1896. As I got older, I had a friend who lived just off of 17th and I loved visiting her there. Being across from the park always seemed so calm and serene. As long as you stay away from Colfax, the traffic isn't bad either. Nowadays I go there mostly to take my kids to the zoo and Denver Museum of Nature and Science. There is also a planetarium although I haven't been there since high school.

The park itself is huge and offers tons of space for taking a jog, enjoying a picnic, or even riding the paddle boats in Ferril Lake. There is a great view of this lake and of the Denver skyline from the balcony in the museum. For the most part, when you're here it's a laid back atmosphere, much different than the city which is so close.

There are numerous businesses, restaurants and bars up and down Colfax. It's a quick drive to downtown so this would be a great place for people who work downtown to live. East High School, which has had some problems in the past has now really turned around and a much younger friend of mine graduated there just several years ago. She said she really enjoyed going to school there and thought the teachers were really good.

The median household income in City Park was $52,165 in 2010, while the rest of Denver averaged $45,526. I don't know how accurate this is as some maps show City Park as going as far south as Colfax, while others show it ending at 17th Avenue. The average detached home price was a very high $666,193 compared to the rest of Denver at $329,547. While the housing prices are high, it may be worth looking into this neighborhood if you're a professional working downtown or at one of the nearby hospitals.
Pros
  • Great green space
  • Handy to other great neighborhoods
  • Lots to do!
  • Near one of the best redeveloped areas of Colfax
  • Park has open space, museum, and zoo
Cons
  • Relatively high housing costs
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 1/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A quiet town close to the Utah border"

Dove Creek is a small town just east of the Utah border. This small town has only 735 residents and not much to offer in the way of restaurants or amenities. There are a couple gas stations and motels for travelers who find themselves in this part of the state. The largest industries here are construction and educational services, followed by administrative and support and waste management services.The median income here tends to be much lower than the state average, along with the housing prices.

This would be a good area for farming or agriculture and maybe someone who drives a semi for a living.
Pros
  • beautiful scenery
  • good farmland
Cons
  • far to major grocery
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"An agricultural based town with scenic views"

Bellvue is located centrally in Northern Colorado and lies in the Pleasant Valley.This area is very lush looking and green, with foothills for a backdrop. In the small town there is only one business that I know of, a small store, and within the town are small family homes shaded by large trees. There are about 2,000 people that call Bellvue home, living in town and in the surrounding areas. This is a good area for agriculture and along the valley you can see green fields in all directions.

This is a small, close knit community where many people have been living here for years. You can find a typical single family home for anywhere in the low $200,000 range, unless you're looking for property, then the cost can go much higher.

Although there are no big stores or restaurants here, Ft. Collins is only 20 minutes away, and there's tons of stores and dining options there.

I think Bellvue would be a great place to call home as it's a friendly little town with some cute homes, it's a really beautiful area, it's quiet and peaceful, and some great amenities aren't far away.
Pros
  • quiet and peaceful
  • scenic
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A place I wouldn't mind calling home"

Bailey, Colorado is located along 285 about an hour west of Denver. I've had the pleasure of visiting this little town a lot over the years and it has really come to grow on me. The 'town' itself is pretty small with just a couple of restaurants, a small gift shop, and gas station, but within the outer lying areas, it is really beautiful and scenic. The schools here are pretty amazing and have nice views and in the high school cafeteria there is a large fireplace and the seating is booth style like you would find in a nice restaurant. When you're seated there you can look out at the mountain across the highway and it is very picturesque - I can only imagine how beautiful it is to be there during the winter and seeing snow fall. We have friends who recently moved to the area and they have elementary aged children, and the kids are allowed to go sledding at recess. That must be so much fun for them!

The people who live there are all so friendly and quick to make conversation with visitors. There are some small to average size homes around town, but once you get a little farther away you can find a lot of large, custom built homes on some property for well ino the millions.

Being in the mountains there are a ton of great outdoor things to do near Bailey. There's fishing, hiking, camping, hunting & more. I've been up to Bailey in the winter and the roads are well maintained. The one drawback is that there is only a two lane road going from Bailey to Conifer, which is where the nearest grocery store is. Conifer is about 20 minutes away in good weather.

The town itself isn't set up like a regular town with business lining the streets. The buildings are more spread out and when you're looking around you can see some older buildings and log cabins. There are a few bed & breakfast type of places on the outskirts of town and some great lush valleys you can drive through in the spring and summertime. This is really a lovely area with lovely people and definitely a place I would consider if I were moving to the mountains.
Pros
  • beautiful views
  • friendly people
  • good schools
Recommended for
  • Tourists
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A small town with great history"

Dinosaur is located very close to the border of Utah in Northwestern Colorado. This small town has only 339 residents and most of the area is spread out with houses on a little bit of land. There are small, single family homes as well as mobile homes in the area. The main roads through town are paved, but many of the side roads are still dirt. Many of the residents have been drawn to the area because of the jobs in mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction. The median household income here is well below state averages, but so are the housing prices. The town has a high percentage (over 24%) of residents living under the poverty level.

Dinosaur does get its fair share of visitors to the area. Nearby is Dinosaur National Monument, numerous hiking and biking trails, and scenic auto routes. The roads are aptly named with names such as Brontosaurus Blvd. and Stegosaurus Freeway. Overall the area is hot and dry in the summer as this region has very low humidity.

There are several of restaurants in town, a couple of gas stations, and a couple of small motels. There isn't too much else to offer as Dinosaur is rather remote and its hard to think of many people going to the area if it weren't for the Dinosaur National Monument.
Cons
  • remote
  • severe hot and cold seasons
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"Scenic Colorado at its best"

Marble, Colorado is a one of the most scenic spots in the state. The beauty of this area is enjoyed by the 132 residents that call Marble home, as well as the lucky tourists that get to see it. This quaint little town lies in Western Colorado and is rather remote. The tight knit community has great schools for the kids who live here and there are numerous outdoor activities including cross country skiing, hiking, camping, and hunting.

The largest industry in Marble is health care and social assistance, followed by construction. The median household income here is $44,161 which is significantly lower than the rest of the state. However, an average median home price is much higher than the rest of the state by about $100,000. This number is skewed by some of the larger homes on property outside of town as there are some really cute little homes in town. The town is about 92% white.
Pros
  • Amazingly beautiful
  • remote
  • true mountain town
Cons
  • few options for shopping
  • far to major towns
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
HeatherS
HeatherS I love Marble! and not too fair away is Penny hotspring
2yrs+
HeatherS
HeatherS Penny is a natural, free, roadside hotspring that flows into the Crystal River not far north of Redstone on HW 131, so a good while (20 mins) south of Carbondale. Penny is really hot and clear and built up by stones...I think I am actually heading there saturday to do not solo camping around Mt Sopris and maybe head into Aspen to see some friends:)
2yrs+
HeatherS
HeatherS yeah, its a scrabble down a rocky side to the river where the hotsprings are rocked off and the water comes out of the sandy bottom and a pipe that someone fixed. I've only been there in the colder months when the river is more mellow so I wonder what the spring runoff will do to the hot water...should be interesting
2yrs+
HeatherS
HeatherS no not marked at all as I remember...it is on the east side of 131. If you go look up the exact distance btween redstone and Penny Hotsprings. There is a small gravely parking area on that east side of road, I found it alright from online directions. Seriously fun and worth soaking in!
2yrs+
HeatherS
HeatherS I've only been in the water once and that was winter and there was no one there at all--maybe summer time is busy?
2yrs+
HeatherS
HeatherS a little steep but its just a 12 foot scrabble down from the road to the river then hot water awwww....the hard part is getting out soaked back to the car but you can make it is 2 minutes!
2yrs+
Add a comment...
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A nice, family oriented town"

Johnstown is a small town with a population of just under 10,000. The town began in 1902 when Harvey Parish first learned of the railroad coming through the area. He plotted the town and businesses began springing up. While there are newer areas of the town which have bigger houses, the older houses in town are smaller but have a quiet charm about them. They are all individual looking, although in some areas they are packed together a bit close. The town itself is rather peaceful since it lies a bit off of I-25 to the east. This does make for a quick commute to the highway for those who may work in another town. There is a definite laid back feel to Johnstown which is refreshing when compared to the big cities. The estimated income here is about $16,000 more than the state average, although the average median home price here is about $15,000 less than the state average. This makes the cost of living here really good.

For families who have K-12th grade children, the schools here rate a bit over average compared to the rest of Colorado. Although I've only been in Roosevelt High School, it was a bit dated, but very clean. There does seem to be good school spirit throughout the town.

Another benefit for those living in Johnstown is that it is close enough to a big city so shopping and dining options aren't too far away. Although it's east of I-25 it is close to the mountains, which you can see from many parts of Johnstown.

Overall, this is a quiet, clean little community that seems as if it would be a good place to raise a family.
Pros
  • close to the mountains
  • close to Loveland and Front Range
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 2/5
  • Safe & Sound 2/5
  • Clean & Green 2/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 2/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 1/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A town located near industrial businesses"

Derby, Colorado is sometimes confused with being a part of Commerce City, although most places in Derby use Commerce City on their mailing label. Derby and Commerce City lay adjacent to one another and there is no real distinction as to where one stops and the other starts. As with Commerce City to the south, Derby is highly populated with Hispanics, which make up almost 65% of the population, followed by White at 32%. This neighborhood has some small single family homes as well as many apartment buildings. I do like how many of the homes have the old fashioned chain link fences, allowing residents to visit with one another. It kind of takes you back to another time.

The median household income for Derby is $39,032, which is significantly lower than the Colorado state average at $55,430. Many of the residents here work in blue collar professions and the largest industry is construction. The median household income is lower here, and so are the home prices. While the median home price in Colorado is $237,800, in Derby it is $149,898. The poverty level in Derby is right around 23%. Almost 40% of Derby residents have not received a high school diploma.

While there are some cute single family homes here which are on nicer streets, there is a rather run down feeling to the area as a whole. There are a lot of industrial type of businesses southwest of the area which pollute the air and there are many warehouses and trucking businesses here as well. In my opinion, the two don't mix well to make a good, safe neighborhood. There are a couple of restaurants and various businesses, but for shopping and dining residents pretty much need to head elsewhere.

Overall I wouldn't recommend Derby for families with children as the schools in the area traditionally score really low on state testing standards. There are also some run down areas with less than appealing yards and homes.
Pros
  • lower housing prices
Cons
  • industrial area
  • some areas really run down looking
  • high poverty rate and poor schools
HeatherS
HeatherS I guess I do think of Derby as Commerce City basically
2yrs+
Add a comment...
1/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 2/5
  • Safe & Sound 2/5
  • Clean & Green 2/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 2/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 2/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 2/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"Engulfed by the much larger city of Greeley"

I've been to Garden City many times and never knew it wasn't considered Greeley until seeing a map recently. I have been here for several reasons, and I always seem to stop at the Subway as there isn't too much else in the way of healthy food options. This small town has only 235 residents, although it can get very busy since Hwy 85 runs through it. There are numerous businesses here and the homes that are located in Garden City tend to be on the small side with an average cost around $155,000, which is in line with the lower average household income of $20,224. Almost 37% of residents here live below the poverty rate.

The most common industry in Garden City is manufacturing, followed by accommodation and food services, then health care and social assistance. There are numerous restaurants on this side of town, although many of them lie within Greeley boundaries. There is also a rather large Lutheran Good Samaritan community which has senior housing as well as assisted living and skilled care just north of the city so for residents who work in health care they have this option or the nearby hospital.

Overall the looks of Garden City don't appeal to me as this seems to be a busy area with not much to offer in the way of clean and neat subdivisions or housing areas. There's a lot of businesses in the area and this part of town is just not appealing.
Pros
  • close to many amenities
Cons
  • a little run down looking
  • high poverty rate
5/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 5/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A beautiful place to live with a family oriented atmosphere"

Gleneagle is one of my favorite areas of Colorado. The homes here are all individual looking and the yards are all well tended and nice. There are incredible views of the mountains just west of the highway and some pretty amazing sunsets to boot. We have friends who live here and whenever we go down for a BBQ they have neighbors over as it seems to be a pretty tight knit community. Although there isn't a lot of options here for shopping and dining, Gleneagle is so close to Colorado Springs that residents can get whatever they need without a far drive, yet live in a quiet beautiful area without the hustle and bustle of the bigger city.

There is an 18 hole golf course located here which has some pretty incredible views and is a gorgeous course, which is open to the public. It fits in perfectly with the incredible scenery it has for a backdrop.

The median household income in Gleneagle is $109,208 which is almost double that of the rest of Colorado. However, home prices here are high as well, coming in around $355,000 for a median priced home. The majority of the residents here work in professional, scientific, and technical services followed by educational services. This is definitely a family oriented area as almost 80% of the households are families. The current population is 6,611 with the majority of the residents (over 89.7%) being white, followed by Hispanic and then Asian.

For families who can afford a little more expensive home, I would highly recommend Gleneagle. The family oriented atmosphere, along with great schools and surrounding beauty make this community a great place to live.
Pros
  • excellent schools
  • scenic area
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A pretty little town with great views and low crime"

La Veta is a small town in southern Colorado and the name literally means 'the mineral vein' in Spanish. This area was first settled by the white man in the mid 1800s and was placed on a trail that had been used by both Comanche and Ute Indians. A fort was originally built here to supply Denver mining camps with supplies. In 1876 the train came through and a little wooden schoolhouse was also built for the children who lived near the town.

There are now about 800 residents and driving through town you can see nice little homes along the tree lined streets. There are even some older adobe looking homes which are neat to see. The town is very green and there are some great views in the distance. of the beautiful mountains.

La Veta has an incredibly low crime rate and in 2009 not one crime was reported. Even for a small town where people tend to know one another, this is unusual.

As La Veta is off the beaten path, there aren't a lot of shopping or dining options in town. The nearest large city is Pueblo which is about an hour away. This nice little town would be a great place to retire or for those who like a small town atmosphere.
Pros
  • friendly people
  • very low crime rate
  • Amazingly beautiful views
  • lower cost of living
Cons
  • very isolated from Denver
  • long commute to Pueblo
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A great alternative to Pueblo"

I seem to find myself in Pueblo West several times a year. If I'm ever traveling to the zoo or somewhere else on the west side of Pueblo I usually get off the highway early and drive through this area even it it takes a little longer. I love how the area is spread out and many of the homes use xeriscaping in their yards. In some ways, it reminds me a lot of being in Arizona. many homes in this town are on some acreage and you can find some small farm animals and horses about. There are also more traditional subdivisions where the homes are all a little closer. Overall, the schools here are pretty good and they rank higher than average when it comes to state wide comparisons.

There are enough restaurants and shops in Pueblo West that I would think residents wouldn't have to leave often unless they wanted to. However, since Pueblo is so close the drive wouldn't be far anyway. The cost of living in Pueblo West is very good. The average median household income is just shy of $59,000 which is about 4K higher than the state average, but you can buy a nice single family home here for $182,179 which is almost 55K less than the state average.

There are almost 30,000 residents in this quiet area and many of them work in retail trade and health care and social assistance. The majority of the residents are white, followed by Hispanic.
Pros
  • peace and quiet
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 2/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A good place to be located for those who work downtown"

Henderson, Colorado is a rapidly changing area. This used to be a big area for farming and ranching, and while there are still some small farms and older homes here, there are new developments popping up everywhere. Most of these developments have two-story, single family homes and are pretty close together. There is a lot of water in the area, with lakes and streams, and just west of Highway 85 off of 120th is a great bicycle path. There are also places to go for nice nature walks and spend some quality time outdoors.

Although there isn't a lot of shopping in the area, this town is located right next to Brighton and Northglenn, so shopping and dining are never far away. There are plenty of gas stations and a few strip malls for other needs. It would be a convenient location for someone to live in if they worked in Denver or any of the other surrounding areas. Although traffics seems to not be bad for the most part, it can get a little congested on both Highway 85 and 120th as you head west, but this happens mostly at peak driving hours.

The schools in Henderson rate anywhere from average to below average, which is unfortunate. Both the middle and high school have pretty new buildings which are very nice on the inside. Overall, this is primarily a family based area with many housing options.
Pros
  • convenient to Denver and DIA
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 2/5
  • Eating Out 5/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Gym & Fitness 5/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 4/5
  • Medical Facilities 5/5
  • Schools 5/5
  • Childcare 5/5
Just now

"A great place to live or visit"

Henderson, Nevada is a suburb of Las Vegas and I initially had some reservations about staying there. Thinking it was so close to downtown Las Vegas I wrongly assumed it would be a little less than stellar - boy was I surprised. This area is so nice and pleasant, I could see many people wanting to live there. While there are many strip malls along the main roads which do detract a little from the overall appearance, when you're inside the neighborhoods they are very nice, well kept, and have a good feel about them. I was able to go to The District at Green Valley Ranch and thought it was one of the best outdoor malls I'd been to. There are quite a variety of shops, places to dine, areas for kids to play, and lovely cobblestone walkways. The store employees I encountered were all very nice and eager to help.

I was also impressed by some of the parks in Henderson. They are large and offer a great many things to do, and many people seem to make good use of them. While there is a lot of traffic on the main roads, the side streets seemed to move fine and I was never in what I would consider bad traffic. There are many different types of restaurants scattered throughout the area as well as grocers and other convenience shops. For a city with a population of 257,943 it is very safe (statistically) and I never felt uneasy when I was there, not even late at night.

The cost of living In Henderson is higher than the state of Nevada averages, but so is the median household income. As you would expect for a city right next to Las Vegas, the majority of residents work in accommodation and food services, followed by arts, entertainment, and recreation. Although Nevada tends to be a swing state, the slight majority of residents here tend to vote Democratic. Almost 69% of the people here are white, followed by Hispanic.

I would highly recommend Henderson for anyone looking to move to the Las Vegas area or as a place to stay if visiting and not wanting to stay on the strip. We stayed at the Green Valley Courtyard by Marriott while we were there and I felt it was incredibly reasonably priced for the room we got. It's close to a lot of amenities and many things are within walking distance if you don't feel like driving.
Pros
  • very nice area
  • tons of amenities
  • friendly people
Recommended for
  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Tourists
  • Students
  • Trendy & Stylish
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A good cost of living in this area"

Severence got it's start back in 1894 as a sugar beet receiving station along the railroad. Many families also moved out west during this time with the Homestead Act and little towns like Severence began popping up all over the west. Although the current population is only 3,184 there are several times a year when the town is overridden with visitors to a local bar. Many motorcyclists converge on the town in an end of the riding season tradition at a Bruce's.

Severence is a pretty area with many of the homes being on land in the outlying areas. You can find farmland all around and many different types of crops growing. The average household income in Severence is $74,000 which is almost $20,000 higher than the state average. The average median home price is right in line with the state average of $237,000, making the cost of living here really good. Many of the residents work in construction or health care and social assistance.

Although there isn't much in Severence in the way of amenities, Greeley is only about 10 miles away and residents can find many shopping and dining options there.
Pros
  • good cost of living
Cons
  • few amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
2/5 rating details
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"Remote, but cool looking area"

Virginia Dale lies north of Fort Collins by about 40 minutes. Off the beaten path, there are no real businesses to speak of. There is a lot of open space and ranching in the area. About 1,400 people call Virginia Dale home, but for those families with children they need to go to school in Livermore, which is about 10 miles away.

The average home value is about $190,000. The area itself if pretty. It's not mountainous but has some rolling hills and cool looking rock outcrops, with nice views of the mountains in the distance. Only a few miles from Wyoming, this area can get some pretty bad wind and the roads can get nasty in the wintertime.
Pros
  • peaceful and quiet
Cons
  • remote
  • no amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A quiet town near good skiing"

If you're looking for a quiet little mountain town to call home, Eldora might just be it. This town of only 142 souls lies about 1/2 hour west of Boulder and is close to some really good skiing. Although there isn't much to the town itself, the surrounding area is beautiful and there is a ton to do if you like the outdoors. Along the main road there are a lot of older, abandoned buildings - signs of better times. The main road here is paved but many of the side roads are still dirt, making for muddy roads in the rainy and snowy seasons.

The median household income In Eldo is slightly above the state average, and is roughly in line with the increased home prices. Many of the homes here are made out of wood or look like log cabins and fit nicely into the surrounding scenery. There are no schools in town so children who live here have to go to school in Nederland, although the schools there rank very high.

While this isn't my favorite mountain town in Colorado, it is nice with great scenery. I could see someone who loves the mountains and peace and quiet wanting to live here.
Pros
  • scenic
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
HeatherS
HeatherS I think I would rather live in Eldora than Ned, but the outskirts of Ned are gorgeous too. Just so dang windy for a lot of the year and chilly compared to down in Boulder for example
2yrs+
HeatherS
HeatherS eating your own hair on a windy day is the worst:)
2yrs+
Add a comment...
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A beautiful little town in Northern Colorado"

Glen Haven is a small, quaint little town in northern Colorado. When you first drive into town you notice the little general store and several other business next to each other along with the fire house. All of these are built out of wood, keeping the local scenery in mind. The area itself is gorgeous with pretty views no matter which way you look. You can often find local residents sitting around and chatting over a cup of coffee or soda in the warm months. Not too many people call Glen Haven home, but of the 165 that do, I think they are all pretty lucky. For anyone who loves the mountains and all it has to offer, this is such a nice, out of the way little town. The general store has pretty much the necessities, but for more shopping and dining options residents need to travel to either Estes Park which is only 15 minutes away or to Loveland which is about 50 minutes away.

Since there aren't many residents here there is only one school, an elementary. When compared to other schools in the state it ranks about average. Older kids have to travel to Estes Park for school.

The average household income in Glen Haven is slightly above the state average, although to purchase a home here it is about $100,000 more than the state average. The average age of the residents here is 59.1, so it seems as if many of the residents have come here to retire, and I can see why.
Pros
  • friendly people
  • small town atmosphere
  • gorgeous scenery
Cons
  • no amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A great place to call home"

Eagle, Colorado is located along the I-70 corridor in between Vail and Glenwood Springs and has ~6,500 residents. This is a very pretty area with lots of trees and mountain views. The area is hilly and there are different housing options available. In town you can find some apartments and attractive, older Victorian homes. Outside of town there are some incredible custom homes which go for in the millions of dollars range. As with many of the towns in this part of Colorado the median household income is higher than the rest of the state, while the housing prices are significantly above state averages. The main industry in Eagle is construction.

One of the great things about living in this part of Colorado is it's an outdoor lovers dream. Within minutes are world class ski resorts, hiking, camping, and fishing. If you like being outside, this is definitely a place to be. The people are all friendly and there is more of a small town atmosphere here, at least more so than other neighboring towns. The schools here are mostly above average when it comes to state testing standards. Overall, I think this would be a great town to live in or raise a family in.
Pros
  • tons of outdoor activities
  • friendly people
Cons
  • expensive
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 2/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 2/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A mixed bag of real estate; large farms to small mobile homes and everything in between"

Gill is located in the northern uppermost part of the state, about 10 minutes north of Kersey. The population is just under 1,000 and many of the homes here are on outlying acres of land, especially along Colorado 37. In town, it can look a little run down with buildings needing to be repaired or torn down, broken down cars and farm equipment,muddy streets in the winter and spring, and houses that look as if they haven't been tended to in a long time. This certainly doesn't apply to the entire area, as some houses are nicely tended.

There isn't much to Gill overall, but there is a lot of farm land around and it's not to far from Greeley. In only about a 15 minute drive, there are numerous stores, shops and restaurants as well as things to do. So while when you're in Gill it may seem almost desolate in some areas, you really aren't far from a whole lot.
Pros
  • close to a big city
Cons
  • no amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A bit remote, small, few amenities"

Galeton is a tiny town with only 141 inhabitants and lies in the upper north part of Colorado. There are no real amenities in this town and since it is so small there are no schools outside of an elementary. The elementary gets about average marks when it comes to state testing standards. Once the kids are done with elementary, they transfer to the schools in Eaton which are only about 10 minutes away. Eaton is also where residents of Galeton can eat out and do a little shopping, although not much as Eaton only has a population of about 4,700. The closest, decent sized town is Greeley which is about 20 minutes to city limits.

The homes in Galeton are mostly very small, single family homes. As you drive through town they seem a bit close considering how much land surrounds the place. There are also a fair share of mobile homes. As with many smaller towns, the median household income here is below state average, but so are the housing prices.
Pros
  • inexpensive homes
Cons
  • no amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A gorgeous town with spectacular views"

Richfield, Utah is one of those small towns that lies on Interstate 70 and has everything a traveler needs. There's more than a few hotels, gas stations, and restaurants. Many of the townspeople work in these types of places as this is one of the only decent sized towns in this part of Utah. You can find gas in other places, but for the most part, Richfield is it. Although I have stayed in Richfield several times, I will never forget how it looked the first time I drove in. There are gorgeous green valleys that are just breathtaking, all with the backdrop of snow capped mountains behind. It is one of the prettiest towns I've ever been in and though about staying in for more than just a night or two. In the outer lying areas there are a lot of small farms and ranches and you can see cattle grazing and horses running about. Although the town has just over 7,500 people, it seems smaller, in a friendly, down home kind of way. The people are all very nice, and they certainly don't rush around at the speed they do in the bigger cities. There's a relaxed attitude here where it seems as if people just enjoy one day at a time.

Although the median household income here is below the average of Utah, housing prices here are lower as well. The retail industry is the most common, which isn't surprising considering how much the town caters to travelers. The crime rate here is lower than the national average, and some years much lower. The school have very mixed reviews but overall they are about average when compared to the rest of Utah. Overall, I think this would be a neat little town to live in. The people are friendly, there's a declining rate of unemployment, and some spectacular views.
Pros
  • friendly people
  • incredibly beautiful views
  • laid back atmosphere
Cons
  • far from other cities
Recommended for
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Tourists
  • Country Lovers
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A sleepy little town along I-70"

Roggen is a small farming community with only 523 residents. As it lies on I-76 there are also a lot of truckers who call this home as it's easy to jump on the highway. The homes are laid out on acreage and no two are alike. It's a pretty area in the spring and summer when things turn green, but can look cold and stark in the fall and winter. Although the average household income here is lower than the states average, so are the housing prices. There are a variety of sizes and shapes, but in the mix are some really cute, little older homes that look as if they've seen a lot of years and come out still looking nice.

There are no amenities in Roggen and as of the last time I passed through, I don't remember seeing any restaurants either. There is an elevator branch here but not much else. Residents need to travel elsewhere for shopping or dining and while there are a lot of little towns along I-70 where you can find things, Denver is just under an hour away, so it would be feasible to make the trip every week or two.

I would think this little town would appeal to those who don't like the big city or who want to try their hand at farming. There's lots of land here for cheaper than a lot of areas, nice people, and quick access to the highway.
Pros
  • close to highway
  • cheaper land & homes
  • nice people
Cons
  • no amenities
  • close to highway
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A quiet spot in the foothills"

Idledale is a small town just northwest of Morrison. This pretty area lies among winding streets in the foothills of the mountains. There are only 252 residents here and you can find a variety of home types at different prices scattered about. The median household income is around $70,000 which is about $15,000 more than the state average, although to buy a home here costs about $40,000 less than the state average. This makes the cost of living very good.

The area itself has no amenities so residents must travel to town to groceries to dine out. During the winter months the roads here can get icy and slick, but road crews do their best to keep it clean and passable. The schools here get above average ratings when compared to the rest of the state.

This would be a good area to live in for someone who doesn't like to be in the city but wants to be close enough for work or shopping.
Pros
  • pretty scenery
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A quiet place for a summer retreat"

Drake is a small little stop along Highway 34 located in the Big Thompson Canyon. As a Colorado native, I have to pause when I hear 'Big Thompson Canyon' as it always reminds me of the horrific flooding and the lives that were lost here when I was a very little girl. Back in 1976 was the worst flash flood the state has ever seen. During a four hour period, the mountains around Estes Park received between 12-14 inches of rain. The normally 18 inch deep water quickly rose to a wall of over 20 feet, and went barrelling down the canyon. This was during a time when there were no cell phones and no way to warn those farther down the canyon since the wall of water tore out phone poles (along with power lines, bridges, and homes) as it went. A state trooper lost his life trying to warn others and guide them to safety. In all, 144 people lost their lives and another 150 were hurt. Homes were literally washed away as were cars, many found with people inside them. The flood cost the state over $35 million dollars in damage, and took months to fix and repair roads, bridges, and homes. In 2001, 25 years after the horrific flood, a memorial marker was placed near the town of Drake listing the names of those who lost their lives.

Although Drake is a beautiful area, it is in a canyon with roads that wind back and forth. The easiest access is to Loveland and Estes Park, although the road to Loveland would seem to me to be easier to travel. It's well maintained, even in the winter, but as with many areas of Colorado, if there's enough snow, it may just be better to wait a day or two. Due to the high walls and angle of the sun, most of this area gets plenty of sunshine in the summer, but in the winter it's hit and miss, depending on where you are.

The cost of living in Drake is high, and even some of the smaller rustic cabins can cost what an average house does in town. While there are some great views and good fishing, Drake does have a lot of traffic at times, especially during the summer months. There are some bed and breakfast places, campgrounds, and an RV park, but overall there isn't much in the way of businesses or restaurants. I think the area is just lovely, but it has such graphic memories for me I couldn't live there.
Pros
  • beautiful canyons
  • great fishing opportunities
Cons
  • sad history
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"Serene surroundings"

Masonville is located just southwest of Fort Collins and is within 15 miles of Fort Collins, Drake, Loveland, Berthoud, Timnath, and Glen Haven. There is no real town here to speak of, but there is a small little mercantile. There are some homes on a lot of property and there is also an area with a few mobile homes, although from what I can tell they are pretty much clustered together. Overall, this is a very pretty area with gorgeous green fields and lots of foothills all around.

For anyone looking into ranching or just being a bit more remote, this seems like a great place to be. It's so close to so much and yet when you're here it seems as if you're a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. The fields are so pretty and the whole area just has a serene feel to it.
Pros
  • very pretty area
Cons
  • no amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"Scenic views and famous residents"

Ridgway, Colorado is located in the southwestern part of the state, about 1/2 an hour south of Montrose. This town of only 928 lies at an elevation of 6,985 feet, and has some pretty incredible views, mostly of Mt. Sneffels. Since the town lies directly on the intersection of Highway 62 and 550 there is a lot of tourist traffic in the area considering some of the great spots to visit in Colorado are relatively close by. In addition to producing the Grammy Awards here, Ridgway also has several famous residents. Ralph Lauren, the fashion designer has a home here as well as Charles Ergen, founder of EchoStar, Danny Thompson, race care driver, and Peter Hessler, writer for both The New Yorker and National Geographic.

The main industry in Ridgway is construction, followed by accommodation and food services. The median household income is $56,798, and although this is about average for Colorado, the home prices here are pretty high with a median average of $386,209. This number is a bit inflated due to some of the properties in the outer lying areas which are on some acreage and have some pretty nice homes on them.

The schools in Ridgway all have above average results on testing standards, with the high school getting the highest marks. This is impressive as it typically works the other way, with scores dropping off as students get older.

Overall, I think this would be a great little town to live in. There are some great properties, scenic views, and enough restaurants to not make the residents want to leave just for a bite to eat. The people are friendly and there is a ton of outdoor activities nearby.
Pros
  • gorgeous views
  • friendly people
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 2/5
  • Clean & Green 1/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 2/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 1/5
  • Parking 2/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"Changing immigrant demographics"

Globeville is a busy area of town that has been around for many years. You can see this in the very old churches in the neighborhood such as the St. Joseph Polish Catholic Church, which is visible from I-70 just east of I-25. For years this area has been heavily populated by immigrants. In the beginning it was Polish, Slavic, Russian, and German, although those demographics have certainly changed. This area gets very congested with traffic and although it may be convenient for residents to hop on one of these two major highways, I wouldn't recommend living here. This now predominantly Hispanic area (~75%) has traditionally low incomes and almost 23% live below the poverty line. Although some of the homes in the area are well kept, some of them are run down and a bit shabby looking, although you can certainly find a few gems here and there.

There is a lot of industrial business in this area and it detracts from the neighborhood. As you're driving down Washington Street, which is a major road in the area, it just feels a bit dingy with the buildings, several liquor stores, and just an unclean appearance. On the southwest side of I-25 and I-70 it's a bit of a different vibe. The schools of Auraria Campus have taken an old hotel and turned it into dorm rooms for students going to school there. They have a shuttle which takes students from there to the campus and they have a variety of things for the kids to do while there, such as a bowling alley. So depending on which part of Globeville you're in, you can have a very different opinion of it.
Pros
  • close to downtown
  • interesting history
  • mix of industrial, artistic
  • some redevelopment taking place
Cons
  • pockets of crime
  • heavy industry
  • poverty in the neighborhood
kikoc
kikoc If you hate it so much then why not move? Your comment makes it sound like minorities living near you is such a burden.
2yrs+
Add a comment...
4/5 rating details
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 2/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Public Transport 5/5
  • Medical Facilities 4/5
Just now

"A cool place to just walk around"

The Central Business District of Denver is a nice area with a professional but casual vibe to it. There are tons of things to see and do here, including art galleries and museums, and some good restaurants. Back when I had more time on my hands I used to love to come down here to just people watch for a while. It's a great area for transportation and there is a free shuttle ride along the 16th Street mall.

I'd recommend this area to anyone visiting the Denver area for a stroll around the city to do some shopping or just to see what Denver is all about.
Pros
  • Always something to do
  • Casual urban vibe
  • Easy access to downtown arts, museums, and businesses
  • Historic and upscale housing
  • Mall Ride Shuttle - free transportation
Cons
  • Lack of parking
  • Pricey area to live in
Recommended for
  • Tourists
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A quiet little town with some great views"

Silver Cliff lies just over an hour west of Pueblo, and right next to West Cliff. These two small towns have grown next to each other, so it can be hard to distinguish one from the other. Silver Cliff has 590 residents and many of them work in construction or retail. The median household income is $44,650 and almost 17% of residents are living below the poverty level. Although there are different types of housing here, it's mostly single family detached homes, all on a little bit of property.

The area can look really pretty when it starts to green up in the springtime, and there are some really nice views of the mountains in the distance. Although I've only been here a couple of times, I have always found the residents to be very nice and friendly. There aren't too many amenities, although there is a lot to do if you're an outdoorsman.
Pros
  • amazing mountain views
  • nice community
Cons
  • far from shopping and hospital
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"Out of the big city, but close enough to have it all nearby"

Redlands is a really pretty area of western Colorado. It lies adjacent to both Grand Junction on the east and to Colorado National Monument, which is just southwest of it. CNM is a gorgeous park with incredible rock formations dating back 1.7 billion years ago. The formations stand tall and the canyons resemble those of the Grand Canyon. For anyone who is up in this area, it is well worth the visit to see this beautiful park.

Redlands itself has 8,685 residents, and many of the homes are single family. The homes are spread out, and although they are in neighborhoods, no one is stepping on anyones toes here. The yards and landscaping are all nice and well kept, and it's a very clean looking area. Although Grand Junction is just next door, there are enough stores and restaurants to keep residents within the city limits most of the time.

Many residents work in retail trade or professional, scientific, and technical services. The median household income here is $69,381 which is significantly higher than the state average. However, many of the homes here are much higher than the state average as well. A median priced single family home can go for around $344,877. In some of the newer areas the homes are semi-custom and tend to be a little closer together, compared to the older parts of Redlands.

The schools here are good and with so many outdoor adventures nearby, I think this would be a great place to raise a family.
Pros
  • beautiful area
Recommended for
  • Tourists
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"Remote but cute"

As of the last census there are only 177 people living in the small town of Crowley, which lies just under an hour east of Pueblo. The most common industry is retail, which most of the people working in this field have to commute to do. The median household income is $19,256 with almost 32% of the residents living below the poverty level. On a good note, you can purchase a cute little single family detached home here for around $39,237. The town looks like it did years ago and the houses all have nice yards and the churches are all within walking distance. Although it's a bit remote, La Junta is just over a 1/2 hour away and there are more options for shopping and dining there, although for better options Pueblo is the place to go.

Although there isn't much to Crowley, there are some nice reservoirs nearby and I could see this being a neat little town for someone who wants to get away from it all and live on the cheap. It's close enough to shopping and dining that it doesn't take hours to do a trip, but far enough away from the hustle and bustle of city life. In town there is the Crowley County Heritage Center which is on the National Register of Historic Places. This used to be the old schoolhouse and it is a pretty neat old two story brick building.
Pros
  • quiet and peaceful
Cons
  • no amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A place to get your spiritual groove on"

Crestone is a rather unusual little town located in a remote area of southern Colorado. Although there's only 128 residents, the town has over 24 spiritual communities and centers, including the Temple of Consciousness (which is currently for sale if anyone is interested). The median household income here is $41,080, although the average median home goes for around $284,400, so the cost of living here is pretty high. Retail trade is the most common industry with over 32% of the population in it. The second most common industry is construction.

Many of the properties in Crestone are very unique and rely heavily on solar power. You can even find classes here on how to build your own solar powered home.

There are a couple of bed and breakfast places in addition to the spiritual centers and there are a lot of outdoor options for things to do nearby. The Great Sand Dunes National Park is less than an hour away and the nearby mountains have tons to do and see. There are some great views from this town as well.

It's amazing that Crestone has carried on after all these years. It got its start back in 1880 after gold was found nearby in Burnt Gulch and the population got to 2,000, however, in the surrounding areas on cattle ranches and homesteads there were over 10,000 people. Crestone has seen a rise and fall of the population over the years, at one point hitting a low of 40. Although not many residents call it home, it is busy with frequent visitors for hiking ,camping, and the spiritual centers. There are two cafes in town and a small natural grocers, but outside of that, there isn't much.
Pros
  • alternative open and strange
  • hot springs
  • isolated
Cons
  • alternative open and strange
  • isolated
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 4/5
Just now

"A mixed area with subdivisions and rural areas"

Fruitvale is located in between Grand Junction and Clifton on the western slope of Colorado. This town offers a variety of housing options, such as traditional neighborhoods and a rural setting where you can find small goat farms and green orchards alongside fields of growing corn. The cost of living here is really good, especially compared to some of the other towns close to Grand Junction. A median household income here is around $58,321 (about $3,000 over state average) and you can get an average median priced home for $227,000 which is about $10,000 lower than the state average, making the cost of living here pretty good.

The area in and around Fruitvale is very green and to the north are the Bookcliff Mountains which are very cool to see. There are tons of orchards in this area with all kinds of fruit trees and you can often find fruit stands along the road selling excellent, fresh fruit. This area is much less busy than nearby Grand Junction although being right next to Grand Junction allows residents to have a lot of amenities very nearby.
Pros
  • some of the best, freshest fruit around
  • green fields and open spaces
  • great views
Cons
  • far from the Front Range
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 4/5
Just now

"A great town on the western slope"

Fruita is a pretty area just west of Grand Junction off of I-70. About 12,600 people call Fruita home in this green valley that lies along the Colorado River. There are some really nice older homes in town and also some more, newer, and larger homes north of the highway. Although Grand Junction is so close and there are over 12,000 people living here, it always seems really quiet and laid back to me. There are tons of families living here and the schools are above average pretty much across the board. Although the median household income here is a bit higher than the state's average, so are the prices of homes, although it seems to even out in the end as far as cost of living. The main industry in Fruita is healthcare and social assistance, followed by construction, and then mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction.

While I would find it hard living this far from the Front Range, if I had to live on the Western Slope I would certainly consider Fruita. It has a nice family atmosphere with a couple of really good locally owned restaurants, a great dinosaur museum for kids, good schools, and a real laid back feel compared to the hustle and bustle of nearby Grand Junction. Less than 10 miles from Fruita heading towards Utah is a cool trail (about a mile and a half) called Rabbit Valley which has turned up some great dinosaur fossils. Recently they found the skull of what's thought to be the world's oldest Iguanodon skull. I've hiked this trail with my kids and it's pretty easy and there's marked stops along the way where you can see the imprints of dinosaur bones in the rocks. Some of the fossils they have found have come from Camarasaurus, Allosaurus, and Camptosaurus. There is also some great camping and mountain biking in the area.
Pros
  • close to a lot of amenities
  • green pretty valley
Cons
  • very isolated from Denver
HeatherS
HeatherS I wonder if there are dinosaur digs for the public around Fruita?
2yrs+
HeatherS
HeatherS thats good to know:) thanks
2yrs+
Add a comment...
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 2/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A rapidly growing community"

Fort Lupton is a small town of almost 7,500 residents and lies just north of Brighton. The town itself is pretty quiet, unless you live by the train tracks which go through the center of town or near Highway 85. There has been a surge in population in the last 10 years with many new homes going up, and the increase of almost 10% of residents is evident to anyone who knows what Fort Lupton used to look like. Now there are more modern homes and a great golf course, along with some more modest homes in town which are still nice although small. During the mid 2000s there was a pretty high crime rate although it has significantly decreased over the last eight or so years. The schools here are traditionally pretty bad, rating only a 3 on a scale of 1-10, so there is great need for improvement. One nice thing about Ft. Lupton is there is a small, community college here. So for those residents who are looking to save money on a traditional four year degree, they can start at Aims Community College which is in town.

The town's population is about 55% white, followed by 42% Hispanic. The median household income in Fort Lupton is $49,170 which is just a bit below the average for Colorado. You can purchase an average, detached single family home here for around $183,000 so the cost of living is a little better here than some other places. The most common industry is construction, followed by retail trade.
Pros
  • good for ag transport
Cons
  • far to commute to Denver everyday
  • traditional farming pesticides
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 5/5
Just now

"A great location with wide open spaces"

About nine years ago when we were looking to move, my husband and I narrowed down our search to two places and Todd Creek was one of them. Unfortunately, we chose the other town and have regretted our decision ever since. The draw to Todd Creek for us was the location, which lies on either side of E-470. It's a quick trip to the airport, and also to other places we frequent, such as up E-470 through Lafayette to 36 and right to my favorite mall, Flatirons. You can find some beautiful semi-custom homes here, all on a few acres. There are some older homes here as well, although I don't know much about them. The area is wide and spread out and some of the roads are still dirt.

It's close to downtown and many other cities, so there is a ton of shopping and dining nearby in a few directions. The convenience of Todd Creek makes it desirable for many. While most of the newer homes are rather pricey, they are gorgeous on the inside. The median household income is $111,027 which is double that of the rest of the state. The homes are in the median price range of $550,000. The largest industry in Todd Creek is construction.
Pros
  • close to downtown
  • close to the creek/river
  • spacious and pretty neighborhoods
Cons
  • expensive real estate
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A very cute, smaller town at 7,867 feet"

Westcliff, Colorado is located about an hour southwest of Canon City. This town of only 590 people is quiet and serene, pretty and clean. Although there aren't a lot of businesses here, there is a Family Dollar, a local chiropractor,a market, gas stations, and a couple of bed and breakfast places, one right on main street in a cute little home that looks as if it's been there for many years. For anyone who works out of there home and likes the quiet life, this may be a town to look into. The people here are friendly and nice, and the town has a real small town atmosphere.

Currently, homes in Westcliff are going for around $200,000 and the median household income is about $32,351. Unfortunately, almost 34% of the town's population is living below the poverty line. This can come as a surprise to anyone who has been here as the town is very nice looking and you don't see the types of homes you would associate with living in poverty. The crime rate here is really low, as are most smaller towns like this. Over 80% of the residents are white and the town's main industry is retail trade, followed closely by construction.

Overall, Westcliff is a really cute, good looking little town. Although it's remote, it may be the perfect place for someone looking to be part of a smaller community which has good schools for the kids.
Pros
  • affordable
  • beautiful scenery
  • remote
Cons
  • few restaurants
  • no hospital
  • remote
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 5/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"An incredible place to call home"

Indian Hills is tucked up at the foot of the mountains west of Littleton and east of Evergreen. I go to Indian Hills at least once a summer because it is such a scenic place and my kids love to go to "Tiny Town." Tiny town began as Turnerville when a gentleman by the name of George Turner began building miniature buildings to entertain his young daughter back in 1915. It lay on the route for the Denver-Leadville stage coach and after only five years it was large enough to open to the public. After only four years of being open to the public, Tiny Town began drawing crowds of over 20,000 per year, all of them braving the rough mountain roads to get there. By the year 1927 Tiny Town was needing more attention than Mr. Turner could give it so he sold it. At the time there were over 125 of the miniature building including a post office, grocery store, school house, and more. They are all 1/6 actual size. Over the years there were several floods that damaged the place, but someone was always willing to get it back in shape. Some of the buildings had to be rebuilt (and were done to original spec) and recently in an old building nearby there were found some of the original houses Mr. Turner built, still in excellent condition. These houses are now on display in Tiny Town. During the early 1990s a train going around the property was put in and there is a little gift shop and concession area. At the far end is a playground for children and there are many places to have a picnic. Although it's not wildly amazing, it is a fun thing for families to do and see, and it can easily take up a summer afternoon.

The rest of Indian Hills has a lot to offer. It's close enough to the 'big city' to be close to shopping and dining, but far enough away to feel as if you're really in the mountains. Some of the views are really nice and when you go to the little ice cream shop in town the people are very friendly. Homes here can cost a pretty penny with an average home price of just under $400,000 but the salaries of residents are some of the highest in the state. There are almost 1,300 people living here so it's not really big enough for it's own school system, although there is an elementary here, which gets the highest rating possible. The most common industry is construction, followed by insurance and finance.

Overall, I think Indian Hills would be a great place to live, especially for those who love the mountains. There's plenty to do nearby in the outdoors and yet you're close enough to be near good hospitals and a lot of shopping and dining options.
Pros
  • Tiny Town
  • friendly people
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
LoganMntMan
LoganMntMan I havnt been to tiny town since my kids were little back in the 90's-that dates me doesnt it
2yrs+
Add a comment...
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 1/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"Pretty, but at a price"

Edwards is a pretty town located just west of Vail. There are ~10,000 residents in this mountain town in which many of the residents work in accommodation and food services. This industry is followed closely by construction, and in town you can see a lot of areas where building materials are stored. With the many resorts located nearby it's no wonder the largest industry includes accommodation and food services. Although the median household income in Edwards is over $30,000 higher than the state average, the homes here are almost $400,000 higher. Although this number includes many of the larger, custom built homes on premium land, there is still a very high cost of living in Edwards. Typically, everything in the mountains costs a little bit more, from food to gas to clothing, and when you add it up it can be prohibitive for some people to even consider living here.

When it comes to schools in Edwards it is really a mixed bag. They go from pretty terrible to very good, depending on the school. If you were to average them out though, they come out to being standard middle of the road for Colorado. However, with housing prices so high and so much money from property taxes you would think the residents would be able to have higher rated schools.

Another drawback to Edwards is that I-70 goes right through it. Since there's a Wendy's and gas station together this makes for a convenient stop for many travelers and there can be a lot of traffic. Once you get into the actual town where the homes are it mellows out and is nice and peaceful. There are definitely some great views here and I can see why some people would be drawn to the area.
Pros
  • pretty area
Cons
  • I-70
  • very high cost of living
Recommended for
  • Tourists
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A great town in the valley of the Grand Mesa"

Cedaredge is a small community with only about 2,250 residents. This isn't a true mountain town, although it lies at an elevation of 6,230 feet. There are some great views of the mountains around town though. Cedaredge lies in the Surface Creek Valley at the base of the world's largest mesa, Grand Mesa. Many things have stayed the same since the U.S. Army drove out the Ute Indians back in September of 1881. There are still many areas which are great for farming and ranching, and there are numerous orchards in the valley. The winters here are mild with light snow while the summertime can get pretty hot.

Educational services is the largest industry in this predominantly white town (almost 90% white). The median household income is $34,481 and although this is much lower than the state's average, it fall in line with housing prices. Most of the homes around town are single family detached, and there is a small area where there is a group of mobile homes. Most of the homes here lie on a little bit of acreage, even the ones in town, giving this area a more rural feel. There are numerous trees along the streets making this a very pretty place, especially in the spring and summertime.

There are four schools in town and students typically score higher than state average on testing standards. Overall there is a great community feel to the place - one where neighbors know and care about one another. One drawback to Cedaredge is how remote it is. The closest town is Delta, and Delta itself has under 9,000 residents so it's not too big either. For big shopping or a wide variety of dining options, residents can travel to Grand Junction which is just over an hour away.
Pros
  • golf courses & parks
  • good schools
  • isolation
Cons
  • far from Front Range
  • not a lot of shopping
Recommended for
  • Tourists
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 2/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 4/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 4/5
Just now

"A great town in southwestern Colorado"

Durango is certainly one of Colorado's hidden gems. I first discovered it when I had some friends go to school at Ft. Lewis College and I was immediately impressed. Although the town has almost 17,000 residents, in so many ways it seems smaller and more intimate. The homes are all charming and many of them have front porches where residents can sit and enjoy the views. Many of the homes are older and have a victorian look to them and from what I've seen they are all well taken care of and the area as a whole looks nice and well kept. There are some newer, more modern homes for sale up near the hospital though.

This predominantly white town (79%) works mostly in accommodation and food services, followed closely by educational services. The median household income is $44,209 and the average price for a detached home is $441,620. While this is really high, it does take into account some of the larger homes on some acreage which can go for well over several million dollars. However, when I looked online I found several of the smaller homes in town (typically less than 1,000 sq. ft.) were going for the low $300,000s which I personally think is highly overpriced.

There are numerous things to do in and around Durango that you're really only limited by your imagination. There's tons of hiking, camping, fishing, whitewater rafting, hunting, and more. It really is an outdoor lovers dream come true. In addition to all the outdoor activities, there are some pretty incredible views. Only about a half an hour away is Mesa Verde National Park which is a wonder to see in itself.

The one big drawback to Durango is the crime rate which is extremely high. I can only assume this is due in part to the college students and 'opportunistic' crime which is common near many campuses. Other than that one issue, I think Durango would be a great place to live for anyone who likes being near the mountains and loves the outdoors.
Pros
  • close to four corners wilderness
  • fun and lively
  • outdoor activities
Cons
  • high crime rate
  • way far from Denver, can't commute
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 2/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A nice area with lots to do"

I was just in Clifton last weekend and I couldn't believe how much it has grown since I was there last (being fair, it's been well over 10 years). There are a lot of strip malls and many more restaurants than I ever would have thought. Although it's much more populated and busy, it is still a nice area. Clifton is very clean and has some great views of Mt. Garfield and also down along the river. At times, it is hard to distinguish it from its close neighbor, Grand Junction.

There are about 20,000 residents in Clifton now and although the median household income is lower than the state average, so are the home prices. All in all, it seems to be about equal.

There are tons of things to do in this neck of the woods and I can understand the desire to live here. There are a lot of outdoor activities available, tons of fresh fruit, and many organic farms nearby.
Pros
  • close to shopping
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A place rich in history"

Dolores has long been populated by different people. Many archaeologists believe there have been people here for several thousands of years, including both the Ute and Navajo tribes. There are many Indian ruins nearby and it's believed that even the white man has been in the area since the early 1830s. It's no wonder people came here as it is very beautiful and the river nearby provided food and water. To this day fly fishing is still very popular in this area, as are many other outdoor sports such as hunting, camping, hiking and the like.

The largest industry in Dolores is currently accommodation and food services as there are more than a few bed & breakfast and hotels in the area. There are also more than a handful of locally owned restaurants. The median household income here is $38,451 and the housing costs are in line with the incomes.

There are only 936 people living in Dolores as of the last census, but for residents who may want more shopping and dining options or medical services, they only need to travel about 15 minutes to Cortez, which is a much larger town of about 10,000. The town's makeup is predominantly white at 84%, followed by Hispanic.
Pros
  • very scenic
  • close to mountains and desert
  • friendly people
Cons
  • few shopping options
  • far from Front Range
1/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 2/5
  • Clean & Green 2/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 2/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 1/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 4/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"Lower cost of living, but at a price"

Lincoln Park lies just south of Canon City and is a mostly residential area. I've never been able to put my finger on it as to why, but it reminds me of an inner city residential area for some reason. The homes are smaller, single family homes for the most part and many of the residents work in Canon City. The largest industry here is retail trade and the median household income is $38,725 which is considerably less than the state average. However, you can also purchase a home here for much less. A single family detached home goes for around $208,512. The home prices here do reflect some issues in the area. In the 50s and 60s there was uranium being mined here and it contaminated the water and land. Although uranium diminishes over time, it never really goes away, so residents do have some risk factor for things such as cancer and fertility issues.

The area itself is located close to many things to do, such as hiking, camping, whitewater rafting, fishing, and many other outdoor adventures. The Royal Gorge Park is also close and has an amusement park, a 1,500 ft. suspension bridge, and is well known tourist attraction.

One drawback to the area is the prison system. There are maximum security prisons in both Canon City and nearby Florence. On the good side, these do provide a lot of jobs for the local population.
Pros
  • close to mountains
  • whitewater rafting
Cons
  • prisons
  • uranium contamination
  • very hot summers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 4/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A remote town with some ancient appeal"

Rangely, Colorado lies right near the Utah border in northern Colorado in a remote location. Almost 45% of the town's population of 2,351 works in mining, quarrying, and oil and gas exploration, followed by educational services. The median household income in Rangely is $58,744 which is slightly higher than Colorado's average, although you can get a median priced home here for around $128,703 which is almost $100,000 below the state average, making this a place with a great cost of living. While the town is small, there is sufficient dining and shopping for necessary needs, although for larger shopping residents travel to Vernal, Utah which is about an hour away or to the much larger Grand Junction which is about an hour and 45 minute drive. So, Rangely is pretty remote.

One of the great things about Rangely is that there is a ton to do here. There's fishing, golf, hunting, swimming, and 16 different petroglyph sites to see hailing from the Ute and Freemont tribes. For visitors there are several motels and about 10 locally owned restaurants.
Pros
  • ancient indian ruins
  • beautiful scenery
  • small town friendliness
Cons
  • hot summers
  • remote
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A remote but scenic area of Colorado"

Westcreek is a very small little area northwest of Monument and there are only 129 residents as of the last census. The homes in this area are all on acreage and you can often see horses and barns scattered about. Other than the main road (State Highway 67) the roads are all still dirt and it can get dusty in the summers here. There are plenty of pine trees about and overall the area is very pretty. The average household income is much higher than the state of Colorado but the homes here cost more as well, most likely due in part to the amount of acreage many of them are on. There's no shopping or dining here and the closest decent sized town is Monument, although there's no real direct route to Monument, so it's easier for resident to just go into Woodland Park or Colorado Springs, which takes about 35-40 minutes in good weather.

The majority of residents (over 92%) are white with over 50% of the population working in educational services. The second most common industry is retail trade which is followed by health care and social assistance. The rate of unemployment here is lower than the rest of the state, and although there was some during the economic downturn, it was much less here than in most cities and towns.
Pros
  • scenic views
  • close to mountains and forest access
Cons
  • limited shopping
  • remote
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A decent suburb of Denver"

Growing up in Colorado I've seen the incredible growth of Broomfield. There used to be so many open fields and space and it seems as if most of that is gone now. I have mixed feelings about Broomfield in that there are some really nice areas, but as one of the other reviewers has said, there are also some dated areas. The other thing I dislike is how it always feels to me that if you're in the heart of Broomfield it can seem like it takes forever to get to any of the highways. Traffic here is never good and I've personally noticed some impatient drivers (although they seem to be everywhere nowadays). There are a lot of strip malls which I think detracts from the personality of the place, but on the other hand there is a lot of shopping for whatever you need very close by. There are numerous restaurants to choose from, although many of them are the chain type with independent, locally owned being few and far between.

There are a lot of housing options in Broomfield, and the average median home price as of 2009 was $262,904. The median household income for Broomfield was $76,380 that same year, so the cost of living is pretty decent. For Broomfield being so populated (~56,000) it has a pretty low crime rate year after year. The town is predominantly white at 80% and the largest industry is healthcare and social assistance.
Pros
  • lots of restaurants
  • 3 golf courses
  • a variety of shopping opportunites
  • smart growth and planning
Cons
  • some dated areas
  • strip malls
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 1/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 2/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"Good cost of living but not worth the price of your health"

Brookside, Colorado lies just southeast of Canon City by about 10 minutes. This area still has some uranium contamination, or what the Navajos used to call the 'yellow death.' This contamination has been found to cause cancer, birth defects, bronchitis, infertility, and arthritis. Although the majority of the mining was done in the 50s and 60s, there is still concern over what is still around from that time as uranium never completely decomposes. This is very unfortunate because the area itself is very pretty. Brookside lies on both sides of the Arkansas River and you can see lush greenery all around. I really like how this area is laid out in that the houses are close to neighbors, but nobody is on top of someone else. They all have nice sized yards with large trees. Most of the homes are single family houses, but there are a couple of mobile homes here as well. Driving through town you pass corn fields and open spaces which gives the illusion of being in the country. There are a couple of abandoned houses and a church around town, a sign of those who have chosen to leave I suppose.

The major industry in Brookside is construction and the median household income is $62,605 which is a good deal above Colorado's average. You can also purchase a single family detached home here for around $251,493 so in comparison to the rest of Colorado the cost of living is pretty much the same, it's the cost to someone's health which needs to be weighed before living here. There are currently 233 residents who are willing to take that chance. Outside of housing there isn't much to do here. There are no restaurants or shopping, although Canon City is just a few minute drive away.
Pros
  • lower cost of living
Cons
  • prisons
  • uranium contamination
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"Farmland and families"

Approximately 5,300 people call Brush, Colorado home. This small town lies on both sides of I-76 although the majority of the homes are south of the highway. There isn't much to Brush outside of housing other than a gas station, small hotel (Econolodge if I remember correctly), and a Wendy's, which stays busy from traffic passing through. There are no real stores to speak of so residents have to travel to Fort Morgan or Sterling for shopping and more dining options. This area is popular with truck drivers as they have quick access to the highway, although manufacturing is the largest industry here. The median household income is $38,692 while an average, single family detached home costs around $126,500. The town is roughly 60% white, followed by 36% Hispanic.

Some of the neighborhoods of Brush have been around for years and are made up of older, small single family homes. There is also a newer area with more modern homes which are mainly two stories. There are a couple of older apartment complexes in the town as well. Most of the streets are wide and tree lined and in the spring and summer months it is really green here. There is a cemetery in town which is one of the best tended cemeteries I've ever seen.
Pros
  • affordable homes
Cons
  • few amenities
  • I-76
  • long commute to Denver area
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 2/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 4/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 1/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 2/5
  • Public Transport 5/5
  • Medical Facilities 4/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 4/5
Just now

"There's good and bad to this Colorado town"

Vail, Colorado is known for ski resorts, celebrity sightings, and expensive real estate. While this is what most people first think of, there is much more to know about. When I first thought about writing about Vail, I had mixed feelings, because there is both good and bad to Vail. Although it is one of Colorado's true mountain towns, you don't get the welcoming vibe you do from most of Colorado. The people I've encountered here all seem a bit cold and distant, without the normal friendly welcoming feel of what I think most natives are capable of. I do understand that many people just come to Vail to work and are seasonal, but it doesn't seem that way to me at other ski resorts in the state. True Coloradans have always had a welcoming, friendly air about them.

Another thing I dislike about Vail is the parking situation. When you're in town it is so crowded and there are barely enough parking spots. Some of the parking lots are so tight you have to wait for other people to move before you can drive through. There's a lot packed into some of the areas and it almost seems as if parking was an after thought. It also stinks that I-70 goes right through town as it really detracts from the landscape. I also don't care for the look of some (many) of the buildings. They seem old to me even if they aren't. Mostly I'm talking about the ones on the north side of the highway.

In many regards, Vail is very overpriced. Not just the real estate, but everything right down the to McDonalds. It's as if the name of Vail itself commands higher prices just because you are able to say you were in Vail, which seems a little ridiculous.

On the plus side, Vail is a very pretty place, although I prefer it in the summertime. When you first come over the hill and are descending into the town it is a nice scenic view and looks just peaceful. Growing up in Colorado I learned to love the mountains from a young age and I appreciate them for what they are worth which makes me like Vail even though I don't care for many aspects of it.

If I were asked by a non-Coloradan whether or not to ski or vacation in Vail, I would suggest other options such as Beaver Creek just down the road a bit. I have found people to be a bit more friendly and although it too is a bit overpriced, it isn't near as bad. As for the actual skiing, I really couldn't say as I quit skiing some years ago. I do know the price of lift tickets seems to be very high now and I'm surprised so many families still go up so frequently.

The actual town of Vail has 5,292 residents as of the last census. The most common industry is obviously accommodation and food services, although the median household income is over $12,000 higher than the state average. The cost of living here is very high though and an average, single family detached home costs around $1,132,461. The high cost of living doesn't leave Vail as an option for many people. For residents with children, the schools in Vail are all rated very good and students continually score well above state averages.

Overall I would say Vail is a nice place to visit once and say you've been there, but to get your money's worth there are better places with nicer people.
Pros
  • free bus
Cons
  • fake
  • I-70
  • super expensive real estate, not worth it
Recommended for
  • Trendy & Stylish
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 2/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A small town northeast of Grand Junction with a good cost of living"

De Beque is a small town along I-70 about 40 minutes outside of Grand Junction. Other than a few subdivisions and ranch/farm land there isn't much here. In town is a gas station with a Subway and there is a new restaurant that has just opened. On the west side of the highway you can see a lot of houses and on the east side there are a few old farms which look as if they are still in use. The homes are mostly small single family with a lot of mobile homes, but it doesn't resemble an ill looking mobile home park at all. The homes (including the mobile ones) are well tended and have nice yards with fencing around them, groomed lawns, and nice shrubbery for the most part.

The median household income in De Beque is $63,069 which is almost $8,000 over the Colorado average, but the housing prices are much lower, although this does include the prices of mobile homes. But if you don't mind smaller homes, the cost of living here is pretty good. For shopping, residents have to travel to either Grand Junction or Glenwood Springs, and although Grand Junction is closer, I would prefer the drive to Glenwood Springs as it is such a great town.

As far as industry is concerned, construction is prevalent with education and mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction not far behind.
Pros
  • small town atmosphere
Cons
  • no amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 4/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A great town for those who like them small"

I have always liked Eads, probably because I'm fascinated with history and the past and when I'm in Eads I feel like I've been transported back in time. The main street in town is wide with plenty of parking on the street and buildings dating back to around the 50s I would guess. This area was always popular with many different Indian tribes, and eventually the town became known as one of the popular railroad stops. Farming has been in the area for a long time, and large portion of the town still works in agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting. Second to this industry is health care and social assistance as there is a hospital, medical clinic, and nursing home in Eads. Not bad for a small town with only 611 people.

Although the median household income is only $35,944 (much lower than Colorado's average), you can purchase a home here for about $$65-70,000 which is WAY below the state's average. Most of the homes in town are small, single family residences with a few mobile homes scattered about. In some of the out lying areas you can find larger homes on more acreage as with most smaller towns.

The town's residents are almost 95% white and there is almost no crime. Even during the worst of the recession in the U.S., the unemployment rate in Eads was very low when compared to other areas in the state.

Eads has three public schools, although the elementary and middle schools share the same campus on Maine Street, while the high school is located on West 19th Street. The schools look well kept and the community has high praise for them. The town also has some really nice baseball fields for the kids to play on.

Overall I think Eads would be a great place to raise kids if you were looking for a true, small town atmosphere.
Pros
  • good schools
  • great cost of living
Cons
  • remote
  • few amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 5/5
  • Childcare 5/5
Just now

"A great area with almost no crime"

The city of Bow Mar started years ago and there are numerous neighborhoods which reflect the time period they were built. Many of them are from the 50s and 60s, but there has been quite a change in recent years. There are now some seriously stately homes which go for well over a million dollars and an incredibly nice country club, Pinehurst CC, which is in the area and offers quiet a few things to do. One home currently on the market is going for $3 million and has 9 bathrooms. I hope it comes with a maid.

The latest data I could find was for 2009 and the median household income was $131,148 with a median detached home price of $938,456. Both of these numbers have gone up significantly since the early 2000s. The major industry here is professional, scientific, and technical services followed by health care and social assistance. The majority of the residents (94%) are white.

Much of the area is surrounding lakes which offer residents some great outdoor activities. There is also a very low crime rate.
Recommended for
  • Trendy & Stylish
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 2/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 1/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 2/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"Once was enough for me"

I've only been to Ward once, but it was enough for me. When I think of quaint little mountain towns, Ward does not come to mind. In fact, I rather dislike it. When you begin to drive through town the mountains look like they do in many other areas of the state, pretty and green. But once you're closer into the heart of Ward things take a strange turn. There are dogs roaming about and there are numerous cars scattered about. Some look like they work and like the driver just disappeared, while others look as if they have rusted into place over the decades. There is an inconsistency about Ward that leaves me wanting to leave.

Although the cost of living is really good for the mountains, it comes at too high a price for the likes of me.
Pros
  • unique
Cons
  • trashy looking
  • pretty funky
  • radical
  • somewhat closed community
HeatherS
HeatherS pretty funky is right:)
2yrs+
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2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 2/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 4/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A great place to take visitors"

When I think of Canon City, I generally think of all the touristy things to do here. Along with the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, there is whitewater rafting, Dinosaur Depot museum for kids, the Museum of Colorado Prisons, hiking, horseback riding, and just generally good sight-seeing. The suspension bridge is 1,053 feet in the air and not for the faint of heart. I'm not afraid of heights and it still gives me a rush every time we go there. The town itself has long been a popular place, beginning with many different tribes such as the: Sioux, Ute, Kiowa, and Comanche. The area has a mild winter climate due to its location and there used to be many hot springs in the area which the Indians used. The city is now known mostly for the state penitentiary which is located here.

There are many jobs in Canon City due to the penitentiary, such as law enforcement, health care, and social workers. There are close to 1,000 prisoners currently incarcerated in Canon City. There is also a prison in nearby Florence, so law enforcement officers are in demand in this part of Colorado. Construction workers are also in demand here. The median household income is $34,199 which is lower than the state average, but you can also purchase a home here for much less.

The town is predominantly white at 85%, followed by Hispanic, which is pretty common for cities and towns in Colorado. The schools here are good and rank pretty high academically. Most years, the city boast a higher than average crime rate when compared nationally.
Pros
  • mild winters
  • good schools
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A nice rural area with great views"

Campion is a small town of only 2,076 residents. It lies south of Loveland and several miles to the west of I-25, so it doesn't have the traffic that some of the towns along I-25 do. It is a relatively peaceful area with homes in traditional neighborhood settings as well as some in more rural areas. One subdivision in particular always makes me smile. There is a subdivision that has gone up around an old farm house and right on the street is what looks like a small grain elevator. I can imagine the frustration of the farmer when homes began to invade his space. The streets here are all tree lined and the town is very green and lush looking in the spring and summer. Many of the homes here remind me of the kind you can find in Loveland, just north of the town. They are ranch style and made out of neutral colored brick.

The average home in Campion goes for around $270,000 which is higher than Colorado's average, but wages here are higher as well. The median household income is $69,089 which is about $14,000 more than the state average. The main industry is construction, followed closely by health care and social assistance. Within a 15 mile radius of Campion there are three hospitals or medical centers. The town's population is made up of primarily Caucasian resident, who make up 82% of the townspeople.

While there are few amenities in Campion, it is within close driving distance of many places such as restaurants, shopping, and other businesses. This would be a great place to raise children in a quiet, close community without the feel of a large town.
Pros
  • lush and green
Cons
  • no amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 1/5
  • Safe & Sound 1/5
  • Clean & Green 1/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 1/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 1/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A couple hidden gems in Berkley"

Berkley, Colorado can sometimes be confused with the neighborhood Berkeley in Denver. These two places are very different, have a different vibe, and can't in any way be confused with one another once you've been to both. Berkley, Colorado has ~11,200 residents and is a very busy part of town. There are some mobile home neighborhoods as well as traditional neighborhoods, and many businesses. Most of the main streets have pawn shops and used car dealerships, including the over-advertised "Rocky's Autos." Signs on many of the streets are in both English and Spanish as the population here is almost 56% Hispanic, followed by Caucasian at 37%. The median household income here is $34,212 which is very low considering some of the surrounding areas. You can purchase a median average sized home in Berkley for about $163,569, which is also very much below the state of Colorado average.

In my opinion, there are two saving graces to Berkley. I recently found myself in this town, near the 64th and Pecos Street area. As I was walking along, I had several people wave to me, which is unheard of in many busy parts of town such as this. I also found a great trail system for walkers, joggers, or cyclists. I took a path from near Broadway (not in the neighborhood) to Pecos and this roughly 1.5 miles portion of the trail was pretty incredible. I passed a small lake with lots of geese, walked along a small river where I saw a turtle swimming about, saw a huge variety of birds, squirrels, and believe it or not, a coyote crossed my path about 15 feet in front of me. Since I'm from the 'country' I don't get bothered by coyotes like some might, so I thought it was awesome to see it up close. There are warning signs on the trails about the coyotes, and parents with small children should be wary. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to go any further, although if the rest of the trail system through this neighborhood is anything like what I saw, it's pretty awesome.

The main industries in Berkley are retail, followed by construction. This isn't hard to believe as there are so many businesses here and on many of the side roads you can see numerous construction sites with large trucks and semis. While I personally wouldn't care to live in this area, I can see the potential of some neighborhoods. Before moving in though, I would highly suggest people check with the local police department to find out any important information regarding the area they are looking at.
Pros
  • great trail system
  • easy commute to Denver
Cons
  • some areas look really run down
  • industry is close by
  • Interstate 76
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 4/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Gym & Fitness 5/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 4/5
  • Medical Facilities 4/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 4/5
Just now

"What people think of when they think of Colorado"

Aspen has long been known as the place to find the rich and famous. Some famous residents include David Geffen, Michael Dell, David and Charles Koch, Robert Wagner, Kevin Costner, and the infamous Charlie Sheen. With names (and bank accounts) like that, you know you can find some amazing properties. Along with multi-million dollars homes, there are many upscale restaurants and shops to accommodate these people. However, there is also another element to Aspen. It is a genuine town with regular people who can be extremely nice and friendly. So yes, there's lots of glitz and glamour, but just as much hometown feel for the locals who live here year-round.

Aspen is also known for it's slopes. Skiing here is a must and at an elevation of 7,820 feet, you can find some of the best there is. There are four different options for skiing here: Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. They all lie within the White River National Forest and Snowmass is the largest of them with 21 lifts. Aspen Highlands is the smallest with only 5 lifts. There's world class dining both on the mountains and in town as well. In addition to the great skiing, there is plenty to do in the off seasons as well. Outdoor enthusiasts can find some great mountain biking, fishing, hiking, and more. The area in and around Aspen is incredibly beautiful regardless of what season you're here.

Many of the residents work in the accommodation and food services industry as well as retail. This isn't a surprise since Aspen is such a touristy place. The median household income here is $56,161 which is slightly higher than the state average, HOWEVER, a median priced single family detached home costs around $1,310,000 so the cost of living is pretty bad. Not the worst in Colorado, but pretty close. Compared to nationwide standards, Aspen costs 257% more to live in than the rest of the nation.

Although there have been fluctuations, Aspen is overall a pretty safe place. There is a low unemployment rate, with many of the resorts, restaurants, and stores in town able to provide a lot of jobs. As with many ski towns, a good portion of people come in just for ski season, such as instructors.

For year round residents with children, the schools here are academically excellent. On a 1-10 scale with 10 being highest, they all rate at an 8 or above. Overall, Aspen is a great Colorado ski town that has a lot to offer. In addition to great amenities and recreation, there is a steady population that is able to make a good living here while being able to enjoy the great outdoors.
Pros
  • scenic in all seasons
  • world class skiing
  • real town
Cons
  • long way from Denver
  • very expensive real estate
Recommended for
  • Tourists
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 2/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"The state's best corn comes from Olathe"

Olathe is known around Colorado for great corn that is grown in this area and shipped around the state. Although agriculture is big here, the most common industry is construction. This sleepy little town is home to 1,845 people and is loaded with gorgeous green trees lining the streets. Most of the homes are small single family residences with a few mobile homes thrown in. Many of the houses were built in the early 1900s and are still charming little structures. Many of the residents who live here are generational and their families have been in the area for years.

The median household income is $ 31,074 and there is under 17% of people in Olathe living under the poverty line. There are different housing rates depending on what you're looking for, but one of the small, older 2 bed/1 bath homes in town will cost you right about $50,000, which coming from the prices on the Front Range seems unbelievable. Obviously, for a house with farm land or a newer build, it costs much more, in the range of over $200,000.

There is only one school in Olathe, an elementary, which gets pretty poor reviews and has pretty low test scores on state standardized tests. The older kids are bussed to Montrose which is only about 15 minutes away. Montrose is also where residents can go for shopping, dining and more amenities, although it is still not a big town itself. There's just a few more options is all.

Outside of wanting to farm, Olathe seems a bit remote for most people.
Pros
  • peace and quiet
Cons
  • remote
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A remote Colorado town"

Moffat is a tiny, remote town southern central Colorado. With only 116 residents, there are no businesses or restaurants. The homes are all laid out in a rural fashion and even traveling to the closest, decent sized town of Alamosa takes over 40 minutes. Over half of the population works in accommodation and food services, and there are bed & breakfast places as well as outdoor sporting attractions, such as hunting.

The median household income in Moffat is $17,665 with over 42% living in poverty. A median priced detached house costs about $195,500, so the cost of living isn't good, nor are there any jobs. The unemployment rate here is higher than I've seen in any town and it likely won't change any time soon.
Pros
  • pretty area
Cons
  • no jobs
  • high poverty rate
  • remote
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A cross between rural and subdivisions"

Orchard City has a very unique feel to it. It seems as if you're in a rural area, but the homes are closer than that. The streets are all tree lined and give the impression of countryside, but neighbors are never very far away. The homes are all well taken care of with groomed lawns and yards. It is very green here and the town likely got it's name from the many orchards nearby. There are about 3,100 people who call Orchard City home. There are no daycare centers, no restaurants, and no businesses here, it is just a little town full of single family residences. The nearest town is Delta, which is only about 15 minutes away. Delta has about 9,000 residents and offers several locally owned restaurants, several fast food places, day care centers and more.

The most common industry here is healthcare and social assistance, followed closely by mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction. The average household income is $46,531 while an average priced home goes for around $169,843.
Pros
  • really pretty and green
Cons
  • remote
  • no amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A scenic, historic town from out of the past"

When driving up I-70 I often take the time to stop in Silver Plume. This isn't a popular stop for tourists as there are no gas stations or restaurants (outside of a tea room), but what brings me here is the charm of the place. Every time I'm here, I feel as if I've been transported back 100+ years. Silver Plume started around the time of the gold rush in the late 1850s and many of the houses still standing here today were built in the late 1880s. There are charming homes with little white picket fences, and although it lies along I-70, there is really no noise from traffic. The most noise you'll get here is when walking near the river which runs through town. As with some older towns, there are buildings that should probably be torn down, and they can detract from the aesthetic appeal, but overall I find these interesting as well.

This small, quaint town would be a great place to call home, especially for anyone who enjoys the mountains and all the adventures they have to offer. It's close to great skiing, hiking, and the rest. The homes here go for a bit under state averages, but there really isn't any employment here either. The median household income is $31,426.
Pros
  • scenic
  • close to many outdoor activities
Cons
  • along I-70
  • need to travel for work
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A great options for families"

Berthoud is a quiet, peaceful little town between Denver and Fort Collins. There are just over 5,000 residents living here and they have great views of the mountains and some incredible sunsets. There are several restaurants here, but not too much in the way of shopping, although the town is close enough to some larger cities that residents don't need to travel far. The schools are all above average with the elementary being one of the highest in the state. The kids here all score way above state averages on testing standards as well.

The most common industry in Berthoud is health care and social assistance, with a median household income of $66,292. This is about $10,000 more than the average for the state of Colorado. Over 85% of the working residents in Berthoud travel to other places to work. You can get a median priced home in Berthoud for around $233,306 which is just under the state's average, so the cost of living here is pretty good.

With the scenic views, great schools, and good cost of living, Berthoud would be an ideal place to call home for many families.
Pros
  • great views
  • good cost of living
  • excellent schools
Cons
  • few shopping options
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 2/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 2/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A little community along the Arkansas River"

Avondale, Colorado lies just east of Pueblo by about 20 minutes. This small town has a lot of older, single family homes which still have chain link fences around them. Although it reminds me of the 70s, it's such a great way to still be able to see and talk with your neighbors, unlike the large wooden fences separating many of the newer homes today. They all seem to have good sized yards, perfect for children or a family pet.

The largest industry in Avondale is manufacturing, followed by retail trade. Many of the residents commute to Pueblo for their jobs since it is pretty close. The median household income in Avondale is $34,971 with almost 22% of the people living below the poverty rate. To purchase a median priced home here would cost about $77,680 although this figure includes mobile homes. The price for a single family detached house is more around $165,000.

The town's population is a good mix of both white and Hispanic, with Hispanics being a bit more common. Unfortunately for the children in this community the schools are below state standards.
Pros
  • relatively inexpensive real estate
Cons
  • few amenities
  • very hot summers
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A small town in northeastern Colorado"

Merino is a small town of just 284 residents and lies in the upper northeast corner of Colorado. Many of the homes here are small single family houses and mobile homes, which are spread out on good sized yards. The streets are tree lined with large trees which give a lot of shade in the summertime. Most of the roads are still dirt, making for a mess when it rains or snows.

The main industry in Merino is manufacturing, followed by professional, scientific, and technical services. The median household income is $38,615 with about 20% of the residents here living in poverty. The homes here are inexpensive as well, compared to Colorado averages and you can buy a median priced home for around $105,500.

There are no real amenities here, so residents must travel elsewhere for things such as shopping or dining out. Sterling is the closest big town, and with almost 15,000 residents, there is a pretty good variety of restaurants here. It's only about a 20 minute drive to Sterling.

The schools in Merino are about average when you compare them to the rest of the state. This would be a good location to live in for a truck driver who frequently uses I-76 or for people on a limited budget who like living where you know all your neighbors.
Pros
  • low cost of living
Cons
  • no amenities
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A rural setting near close to many amenities"

Orchard Mesa lies just east of Grand Junction. There are approximately 6,836 people living in this mostly rural type of setting. There are no restaurants or other amenities here but since it lies next to Grand Junction, a city of almost 60,000 people, there are numerous places to eat and shop within just minutes of Orchard Mesa. Grand Junction also has a lot of employment as well as a college.

The main industry in Orchard Mesa is healthcare and social assistance and the median household income is $52,906, just shy of Colorado averages. To purchase a single family residence here would cost around $217,950, which is about $20,000 lower than the average so the cost of living is pretty decent. Many of the homes here are spread out and on a bit of land, perfect for growing a large garden or having some small animals.
Pros
  • laid back country feel
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 5/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 5/5
  • Public Transport 5/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A great place to visit or live"

Avon is a great little town in Colorado, especially for those looking for great skiing. It is a convenient place to stay for anyone heading up to hit the trails at Beaver Creek. Although there are a lot of tourists, this would be a great place to call home, provided you didn't live by the interstate. There are some great houses in Avon that have spectacular views of the great Colorado Rockies, although they do come at quite a price. There is tons to do in the town with a lot of great restaurants and fun shops, in addition to the outdoor adventures.

Avon does have it's downside though as I-70 runs through it. In addition to the many tourists, there are numerous gas stations, fast food restaurants, and places for those traveling through to just stop for a quick break.

For those who live in Avon there are a lot of job opportunities in the accommodation and food services industries, as this is the largest industry by far, followed by construction. The median household income is about $49,000 and an average single family detached home here costs about $753,000 so the cost of living isn't too practical for most people. For those who can afford to live here the schools are very good and the crime rate pretty low.
Pros
  • skiing/Beaver Creek
  • work for contractors
Cons
  • expensive real estate
  • Interstate 70
  • tourists
Recommended for
  • Tourists
  • Trendy & Stylish
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A small little town in southern Colorado rich in history"

Fort Garland is rich in history from the Civil War era. This small town of just 433 residents has a wonderful historical museum dedicated to the Civil War, all within five of the original buildings which made up the fort (originally 22 buildings). It's easy to spend an afternoon just learning about the history and then having dinner at a locally owned restaurant. There is also a very old Catholic Church in town, Holy Family Catholic Church, which is neat to see. In addition to the historical side of Fort Garland, there are some pretty incredible views here of the surrounding mountain range.

The main industry in Fort Garland is accommodation and food services and the median household income is $23,210 with about 18% of the population living in poverty. Purchasing a home here is much cheaper than the Colorado average and a single family detached home will cost you about $106,600. Some of the homes in town are very well tended and look nice, but there is also a small area with mobile homes that is very run down looking.
Pros
  • Amazingly beautiful views
  • farming
Cons
  • far from Front Range
  • small
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 4/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 4/5
Just now

"A great location close to the mountains"

I grew up going to Arvada to visit my Aunt and Uncle every so often. They lived on the west edge of Arvada near the Jolly Rancher factory, which was always fun to go visit. The area they lived in was spread out and had tons of fields to explore and play in. Arvada has grown quite a bit since then and there are tons of neighborhoods to live in. You can find small to large houses, apartment, condos, and everything in between. Many areas of Arvada are very nice, although some of them are older and a bit run down, depending on where you are. It wasn't until recently that I discovered Olde Town Arvada which has been nicely designed and has a ton to offer. There are some really great restaurants and bars there.

Arvada has the benefit of being in a great location. As it lies in between I-70 and Highway 36 there are two ways to get up into the mountains for all types of recreational fun. Although there are numerous areas of Arvada that have a ton of traffic, it seems to be concentrated on the major roads, especially those connecting to the highways, such as Wadsworth. There are also numerous lakes and reservoirs in and close to Arvada which is nice. Although the major roads seem to have an endless array of strip malls, many of the neighborhoods are quiet and peaceful. Shopping and dining is always close, but so are the comforts of home.

The largest industry in Arvada is professional, scientific, and technical services, although many industries are represented here. The median household income in Arvada is over $10,000 higher than the state average, but home prices here are comparable with state averages making the cost of living here good. In addition to this, the schools in Arvada rank very high when it comes to state testing standards as well as parental ratings. It's rare to see so many schools in such a populated area with all high marks.

Overall, Arvada seems to be a great place to live for professionals, singles, and families. There are tons of cultural events and although there are well over 100,000 people living here, it still maintains the feel of a smaller place.
Pros
  • close to the mountains
  • reasonable real estate prices
  • smaller town feel
  • can avoid Denver traffic
  • cultural events
Cons
  • neighborhood sprawl
  • still close to the city
  • strips of shopping centers everywhere
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A fishing and hunting haven"

Arboles, Colorado lies adjacent to the New Mexico border in southwestern Colorado. This small, remote town has 280 residents as of the last census, and many of them are older than the average age of Coloradans by about 15 years. The area itself is very pretty and lies next to Navajo Reservoir. The median household income here is much lower than the state average, but so are the home prices with the exception of those on large properties overlooking the reservoir. Other than outdoor adventures, Arboles doesn't have much to offer. There are no real restaurants and not much else other than a couple of RV parks, several churches, a postoffice, and very small grocery store. Ignacio lies just 20 minutes to the northwest though, and although it too is a small town, there are a few locally owned restaurants as well as a Subway.

Other than the highway which runs through Arboles, all of the streets are still dirt. The homes are mostly small and spread out with a lot of trees and shrubbery around. Most of the town doesn't have a good view of the reservoir, you have to be up a little high to see it. There is a ton of wildlife here and I'm sure it's popular with hunters and fishers.
Pros
  • Navajo Reservoir
Cons
  • tourists
  • very remote
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 2/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"Some nice quiet areas in Pleasant View"

Pleasant View is an area with mostly single family homes, although you can find some apartments here as well. The area has a lot of trees and from the early spring to early autumn there is green everywhere you look. There are some nice views of the foothills as well. Some areas of Pleasant View have traditional types of neighborhoods, although some areas are more spread out and have more of a rural feel to them as some of the homes are on a bit of land. Most of this area is quiet and you can't tell that I-70 is so close by. The location of Pleasant View is really nice as it's close to Golden and has great access to getting up the mountains for a day of skiing or hiking. This area has a lot of shopping and dining options within just minutes.

The major industry for the residents here is retail, most likely due to the closeness of a large mall nearby. The median household income here is $40,400 which is about $15,000 less than the state average. However, you can also purchase an average single family home here for a bit less as well. This figure includes condos so that skews with the amount. An average single family detached home here is a little higher than the state average by about $30,000.

The schools here are in Jefferson County and although JeffCo has some good schools, the elementary in West Pleasant View gets pretty bad marks. On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being the highest, it scores only a 2. Compared to some other schools in the area this is pretty low.

Overall this would be a nice, mostly quiet, convenient neighborhood to live in for someone who worked nearby. With quick access up to the mountains and a lot of shopping and dining options nearby this could be a great place for those who work in town but love to head up to the mountains.
Pros
  • close to lots of shopping and dining options
  • near Golden and Denver
Cons
  • I-70
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 2/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A more rural area of Alamosa"

Alamosa East is home to 1,458 residents. Although it's connected to Alamosa by several roads, it has its own feel to it. It is much more rural and the homes are more spread out and on acreage. You can find single family homes that are nicely kept as well as some mobile homes that are in disarray.

The median income of Alamosa East is $42,892 which is much higher than that of Alamosa. A single family detached home in Alamosa East will run you about $145,593. Alamosa East has all the benefits of being close to a larger city but has the country, open space feel to it.
Pros
  • acreage
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 1/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 3/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"High in unemployment and poverty rates"

Alamosa is home to 8,818 people, not including the college kids who attend Adams State for the better part of the year. It is a nice little town with many smaller single family homes lined up along tree lined streets. There are a variety of shopping and dining options and the town has some great views of the mountains. In the surrounding areas there is a ton to do, especially for outdoor enthusiasts.

The local schools here are pretty average and students tend to score about average on state testing standards.

The main industry in Alamosa is educational services, followed by health care and social assistance.The median household income is $27,873 with over 32% living below the poverty rate. Unemployment here is high and much greater than in the rest of the state or nationwide. You can purchase an average single family detached home here for $173,710 which is almost $100,000 below the state average.

One big drawback to Alamosa is the crime rate. It continually ranks above average for crime compared to the rest of the country year after year, with most types of crime being represented in those numbers.
Pros
  • beautiful mountain views
  • shoping opportunites
  • water sources
Cons
  • high unemployment rate
  • high poverty rate
  • far from Front Range
  • severe hot and cold
HeatherS
HeatherS I didnt know about the crime and poverty in Alamosa. I hope it gets stronger because it really is a neat place and the people are so friendly
2yrs+
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2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"Employment opportunities in accommodation and food services"

Starkville, Colorado isn't like your average town. It's a long shaped town which parallels the highway. This is a popular stop for people driving through and has more than a handful of restaurants and fast food places, along with several hotels. These businesses employ a lot of the townspeople and the main industry here is accommodation and food services. The median household income is $52,582 which is just below the state average, but you can buy a single family detached home in Starkville for just $188,330 which is considerably lower than the state average, making the cost of living here pretty good.

Many of the homes lies west of the railroad track on just one or two streets. There are no real 'neighborhoods' like in many cities and towns, but rather this area looks almost rural. The homes are spread out and on some acreage. Outside of employment, Starkville doesn't have a whole lot to offer. There's no real amenities or much to do, but it is close to Trinidad Lake State Park which offers a lot of outdoor activities.

There are only 59 residents here and the majority are Hispanic (about 75%) and the rest mainly white. Trinidad is the closest big town and it lies just north by about 10 minutes.
Pros
  • job opportunities
Cons
  • no amenities
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 2/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"In the country but close enough to commute"

Pierce is a small town of just 837 residents and lies just east of Fort Collins. The homes here are typically small single family residences and there is a definite family oriented feel to the place. There's a nice, large baseball field with bleacher for games in the summer and several churches. As far as amenities go, there isn't much, but since Fort Collins is so close, Pierce doesn't seem really remote.

Most of the homes in town are well taken care of and it seems like a nice, clean, green town. As with many small towns, the water tower dominates.

The main industry in Pierce is educational services and the median household income is $48,551. You can buy an average single family detached home for around $150,886.
Pros
  • lower cost of living
  • can commute to Front Range
Cons
  • poor schools
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 4/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"Close to mountain skiing"

Fraser, Colorado is home to 1,219 residents who have pretty great views of the surrounding mountains. The town lies just north of Winter Park, which has some really great skiing. There are a handful of restaurants, both locally owned and fast food chain types, some businesses, and a small medical clinic. The main street that goes through town is where you'll find most of the businesses, and it's a typical busy street, but when you get into the housing area there are some great older homes as well as some newer ones. Due to the location of the town, home prices here are higher than the states averages, but incomes are a bit lower. The housing prices are in part due to some of the custom built homes in the surrounding areas which are multi-million dollar homes.

The main industry in Fraser is accommodation and food services, probably since many of the residents are employed by the ski resort or some of the local bed & breakfast places. The second most common industry is retail.

This would be a great town to live in for younger people who wanted to work at the resort or were looking to be ski bums. The people are pretty friendly, the views are nice, and it's close to an array of outdoor activities. The town is also really good for public transportation and has busses and a train.
Pros
  • scenic views
  • job opportunities
  • tons of outdoor activities
Cons
  • high cost of living
Recommended for
  • Professionals
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A green little town in southern Colorado"

Manassa is a town in southern Colorado with a population of 995, with roughly 1/2 white and 1/2 Hispanic. This small remote town lies just off of Highway 285 and is about 30 minutes from Alamosa. The most common industry in Manassa is educational services. The median household income is $28,017 with about 25% of the residents living in poverty. You can buy a single family detached home here for around $106,669.

The town itself is very green and the majority of the homes are well tended. There is an occasional run down looking building, but not very often. There are great big, tall trees everywhere lining the streets and the park is well taken care of. There are no real amenities here and only one little pizza shop.
Pros
  • very green
Cons
  • remote
Recommended for
  • Country Lovers
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"Outdoor activities all around"

Hayden is a town of ~1,800 residents in northern Colorado and lies jut between Steamboat Springs and Craig. This town is located close to the river so it is a very green town with lots of big trees and greenery. The cost of living here is neck and neck with Colorado averages in both household income and average home prices. The main industry in town is construction followed closely by retail.

The town is located near a ton of stuff to do for outdoor enthusiasts. There's hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and great skiing nearby. It's an outdoor lovers paradise.

The homes in town are mostly single-family, with many of them being a little older. For the most part they all look well taken care of and this is a nice little town. Highway 40 goes through the middle and has plenty of restaurants and gas stations for travelers.
Pros
  • tons of outdoor activities
  • small town life
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 5/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"Expensive, but very nice"

Pagosa Springs lies in southwestern Colorado and is home to 1,725 residents. There are a lot of single family homes as well as a few apartment complexes here. During the summer, the views from around here can be stunning. While driving down the main street in Pagosa Springs you can see some neat, older homes that look like they have been around for a while. The area can be hilly in some spots, making 4-wheel drive cars and trucks necessary during the winter.

This is a great place for outdoor sports fans as there are mountains all around and many lakes nearby. You can find hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, and more just about any direction.

The median household income here is $44,531 while the median detached single family home price is $292,552, so the cost of living here is not really good. But for those who can afford it, it's a great little town with some good locally owned restaurants, tons of stuff to do, and very friendly people. This town actually made it on Phil Keoghan's "23 Destinations You Have to See Before You Die" list. Not bad for such a small little town!
Pros
  • close to mountains and hot springs
Cons
  • expensive goods and property
  • far from Front Range
1/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 2/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 2/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 2/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 1/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 2/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"An ill-named town"

Aristocrat Ranches is an odd area to me. The homes, which vary from nice single family residences to broken down looking mobile homes, are all laid out on even plots in the shape of rectangles. The town lies just northeast of Fort Lupton and although there are plenty of trees about the place always seem dry and dusty, probably because the roads are all dirt.

Although there are no amenities in Aristocrat Ranchettes it is located close to I-76 for quick commutes to other places. The main industry here is overwhelmingly construction with a median household income of $50,522. You can buy an average priced home here for $133,598, so the cost of living here is good.

There are currently 1,344 residents in Aristocrat Ranchettes, with a pretty even mix of whites and Hispanics.
Pros
  • close to the interstates for business
Cons
  • dusty
1/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 2/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 2/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 2/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 2/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"Traffic and congestion, gas and food"

Downieville-Lawson-Dumont is a row of small communities you pass through on the way to the mountains. You can find gas stations and fast food restaurants, such as the local Burger King here. Depending on the season there can be a lot of traffic or none at all. There are some really cute log cabins here, but there are also some more run down looking buildings that are boarded up. Both the median income and average housing costs are lower here than the rest of the state.

For residents who live here there is quick access to I-70 for skiing or other ventures, although I would find it hard to believe anyone would want to commute to Denver from this far up. There are a lot of tourists in the area, mostly stopping for gas and just to stretch their legs.
Pros
  • access to interstate
  • affordable
Cons
  • highway and traffic congestion
  • tourists
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A remote town in northern Colorado"

Oak Creek is a very pretty area of Colorado. The town itself is small with not too any businesses and the homes are in town and on the surrounding hills. There are currently 882 residents in this remote area. The main industry here is accommodation and food services, most likely from bed & breakfast places and tourist stops. The median household income is $42,237 while you can get an average detached single family home for around $206,805. Both of these are a little lower than state averages.

The folks who live in Oak Creek all seem friendly and there is a nice community feeling to the place.
Pros
  • scenic
Cons
  • high unemployment rate
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"A small town off of Highway 34 on the eastern plains"

Otis, Colorado is a town with only 475 residents on the eastern plains of Colorado, and looks like you're typical small town. The homes are all smaller, single family residences which have pretty good sized yards. The major industry here is manufacturing, and almost 25% of the population works in this industry. There are also a lot of truck drivers that live here. The median household income in Otis is $28,242 with just under 12% of the residents living below the poverty level. You can buy an average sized, single family home for around $86,034.

There aren't too many amenities in Otis, but Sterling (pop. 14,725) is only about 50 minutes away by car for shopping and dining options. Otis also has it's own small airport.

This town would be perfect for someone who wants to get away from it all, in a quiet, small community. The cost of living is really good, but the tradeoff is the lack of amenities.
Pros
  • good cost of living
Cons
  • remote
  • no amenities
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 1/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A small close knit community in northeastern Colorado"

Ovid is a small town just two miles from the Nebraska border in the upper northeast corner of Colorado. It got it's start back during the Pony Express and around the time of Fort Sedgwick, a military post. There used to be a sugar plant here, as they were scattered throughout Colorado. The building is still standing here, close to the grain elevators, although you can tell it's abandoned by the broken windows and run down look of it. Nowadays, there is a meat packing plant in town which supplies some of the employment opportunities in the town. The railroad used to bring supplies to Ovid and still comes through town.

Currently there are 317 people living in Ovid. The town is small, with many of the residential streets still being dirt. There is a small school system where every child is encouraged to play sports and join clubs. There is a local volunteer fire department, but 911 services are also provided by the Sedgwick County Sheriffs Office. The small town has a great community feel to it, and many of the residents are very close knit.

The average household income in Ovid is $31,303, with less than 10% of residents living below the poverty rate, which is pretty good for such a small town. The median average priced home is $50,384. The largest industry here is retail, followed by manufacturing, then agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting.
Pros
  • close knit community
  • low cost of living
Cons
  • remote
  • no amenities
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 2/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"Real mountain living"

Ophir is a very small town in the heart of the Rockies, only about 1/2 an hour from Telluride. There are only 158 people who call Ophir home, and most of these residents make well over the Colorado state average household income. Many of the homes here are beautiful mountain properties with access to some of the best nature has to offer. The average cost for a single family detached home is just over $561,000.

The most common industry in Ophir is professional, scientific, and technical services with over 25% of the population working in this industry. The second most common industry here is accommodation and food services.
Pros
  • beautiful setting
  • tons of outdoor activities
Cons
  • very remote
  • no amenities
Recommended for
  • Professionals
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A small town on the eastern plains, minutes from Kansas"

Stratton is a small town with 659 residents on the far eastern plains near Kansas. The main industry in Stratton is educational services, although this is a prominent area for agriculture as well. The median household income is $31,866 with an average home price of $83,093. The town of Stratton has a lot of nice, smaller single family homes which look as if they are well taken care of. There aren't many amenities here, but the larger town of Burlington (pop. 4,074) is just under 20 minutes away and has much more to offer.
Pros
  • country living
Cons
  • still too far to commute to Front Range
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 5/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 2/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"Main Street charm in this little town"

Minturn is located just south of the Vail valley. This small mountain town is home to 1,026 people. It's a nice little town which has some neat store fronts on Main Street and more than a few good locally owned restaurants. The homes here tend to be priced well over state averages, but so are the median household incomes. There are nice little older homes located on Main Street and just off of Main, but when you get a little farther out of town, there are some really beautiful homes on large plots of land which most likely go for in the millions. The main industry here is educational services.

Minturn is located in the heart of the mountains and there is world class skiing very nearby. There are also numerous places to hike and camp as well as many other outdoor activities. When the economy took a down turn, Minturn was hit harder than most areas with high unemployment rates, although that seems to have changed for the better, although these statistics can be misleading in that so many people are now underemployed.

Overall, this is a nice little town in the heart of the Rockies, although it is more expensive than most, probably due to its close proximity to Vail.
Pros
  • good locally owned restaurants
  • scenic views
  • good neighborly spirit
Cons
  • high cost of living
Recommended for
  • Professionals
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 3/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"Home to the oldest hotel in Colorado"

There are some really neat things about Empire, such as some of the homes here which blend so nicely into the surrounding mountainous views. It is also located close to some great 14ers if you're into hiking. Although Empire lies near the base of Bard Peak, it doesn't have that nice, tucked in feeling of many other mountain towns. The highway (40) going through here does tend to dominate the town as another reviewer stated.

There are currently 283 people living here, and many of them work in accommodation and food services.The median household income is $44,543 which is a bit below the state average, but home prices here are a little lower as well.

The town of Empire really got started back in 1858 when gold was found here. Later there were mines added for ore and sliver as well. Empire has the oldest hotel in the state, The Peck House which is on the National Registry of Historic Places. They even have a room there which is completely furnished with the items Mary Grace Parsons Peck arrived with two years after her husband and sons came to the area in 1860. The Pecks were the first owners of the hotel and there are also items of theirs scattered throughout the hotel.
Pros
  • old histroric cabins
  • small
  • snowmobiling
Cons
  • highway dominates
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A street with nice looking homes"

East Apache Place is located just south of I-70 and the frontage road in Strasburg. The street lies in a quiet neighborhood with plenty of acreage for horses or children to run around. It is a very nice looking area, with no junky cars or other miscellaneous items lying around. The homes all look well kept and even in the dull of winter you can tell this is a nice area.

While there are no amenities here, the town of Strasburg is just a couple of minutes away by car. There are the normal businesses you'd find in a small town such as a bank, veterinarian's place, several locally owned restaurants, a hardware store, and a little bowling alley. The schools here are pretty good for the most part and kids tend to score higher than state averages on tests.

The one drawback to this street is its close proximity to the highway. If there were noise from I-70, these people would hear it long before the others in the neighborhood.
Pros
  • nice looking houses
Cons
  • close to the highway
Recommended for
  • Professionals
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"Cherokee Street - one of my favorites in Strasburg"

Cherokee Street lies just south of I-70 in Strasburg on a sleepy little street with well tended homes and plenty of acreage. Some of the residents in this neighborhood have horses, or more than enough acreage to. The road is flat and easy to walk on or ride a bike in what seems like a nice little area. Although there are no amenities on this street, there are some just over the highway in the town of Strasburg itself. There are a few businesses, several locally owned restaurants, several churches, a vets place, and a small rec center.

Student who live on Cherokee Street go to Strasburg schools which score higher than average on state testing standards. There is a lot of home town pride and many residents show up for the football games. Overall, this is a nice street with nice homes that are all really taken care of. I think it would be a great place for families with children or retired people.
Pros
  • very large lots
  • nicely tended homes
  • quiet and peaceful
Recommended for
  • Professionals
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A nice street for horses and peace and quiet"

Bobcat Lane is a quiet street in Strasburg where the homes are all on a little bit of acreage. They are all single family homes and modest in size. While they are located out of town, it takes only a couple of minutes to get to Strasburg where there are several businesses, restaurants, and a small rec center. The schools in this town are all good, with kids scoring above state standards year after year.

This would be a great place to live for anyone who was interested in having small farm animals or horses and who wanted to live a quiet life.
Pros
  • homes on acreage
  • quiet and peaceful
2/5
Just now

"Washington Way has a couple things, but no homes"

Washington Way is a short, dirt road which has one of the Fire Dep't. Buildings on it, a baseball field, and the local preschool. There aren't any homes here.
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"Homes spread out on a little acreage"

There are a handful of homes located on Bobcat Circle in Strasburg, and each one is on a bit of acreage. There is plenty of room for a really large garden or even some horses or other small farm animals. The peace and quiet of this road lends to the country atmosphere, although it only takes a few minutes to get into town from here.

The street lies a bit south of I-70, but is far enough away to not have any noise that can come with being near an interstate highway. The schools here are good and there is a nice community feel to the place. Although most grocery shopping needs to be done closer to town, there are several good family owned restaurants in the little town of Strasburg.

This would be a great street to live on for families who wanted to live a simpler life, but not be too far away from things.
Pros
  • large lots
  • variety of home types
3/5 rating details
  • Peace & Quiet 2/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Shopping Options 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
Just now

"No homes here, just restaurants and businesses"

There are many subdivisions that can be accessed by using Parker Road, but on this section there are no homes. There are many restaurants and businesses but that's about it. It can get very congested here during peak travel times as well.
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 4/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A friendly, family oriented neighborhood"

Longs Peak Lane is in a family-friendly subdivision. Although there are mostly single family homes here, there are numerous things to do and places to go, all within just minutes. The homes are a bit larger than most and really well taken care of. The subdivision is within a really good school district and there are tons of options for kids to do things. You can always see kids about the neighborhood, riding bikes or skating around.
Pros
  • close to many amenities
  • nice homes
  • friendly neighbors
Cons
  • similar 'cookie cutter' homes
Recommended for
  • Professionals
3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A clean looking street with friendly neighbors"

I have a friend who lives on Mount Columbia Place and I often go over there for birthday parties since our girls are friends also. Several of the neighborhood children show up and a they are a nice group of people, the children and adults. There is a very friendly neighborhood feel to the place. The homes are big and nice, with fairly good sized back yards. They are all neat looking with nice landscaping in the front.

Although this is primarily an area with just homes, shopping and many dining options are only a few minutes away down Mainstreet. The children who live here have really good schools to go to and there are a lot of really good sports programs here. Close by is a water park and baseball fields, so this is a great area for children of all ages.
Pros
  • nice neighbors
  • good sized homes
  • good school district
Cons
  • homes all look similar
Recommended for
  • Professionals
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 2/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 4/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 1/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A few town homes here, but not much else"

North Pine Drive is a street that runs parallel to Parker Road, so it makes sense that many drivers opt to travel down this road instead of the ever-busy Parker Road. This road connects to several different subdivisions, but I can only think of a few town homes that would actually have North Pine Drive as an address. There town homes have been here for well over 30 years, but are still well maintained and look nice.

While there aren't any restaurants or stores on this street, all of these things and more are within minutes, if not walking distance. The only drawback to living here is this area of Parker can get a little backed up during peak travel times. Otherwise, there's lots to do and the school system is very good.
Pros
  • few homes here
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 4/5
  • Nightlife 3/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 4/5
  • Internet Access 5/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 5/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 4/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 4/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A quiet, pretty area amid the hustle and bustle of the rest of Parker"

Residents of North Dixon Drive have it all. This road has nice homes on acreage, and many people here have horses or small farm animals. It's a quiet, peaceful road which connects to the local middle school. If you just happened to find yourself here you'd never guess the amount of restaurants just west over the hill, nor would you suspect there's a great new hospital just west of this development. In addition to good schools, residents have a multitude of restaurants, shopping, and activities within several minutes. Parker has some great rec centers, and several pools to choose from.

This would be a great street for families with kids who may want a few smaller animals or horses, good schools, and a rural feel without having to give up amenities nearby.
Pros
  • nice homes on acreage
  • close to shopping and dining
  • quite street
Recommended for
  • Professionals
2/5
Just now

"Just a toll road, no homes here"

Although there are no homes on E-470 it is a great highway to get from Parker to I-25.
1/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 2/5
  • Safe & Sound 5/5
  • Clean & Green 2/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 4/5
  • Eating Out 1/5
  • Nightlife 1/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 1/5
  • Gym & Fitness 1/5
  • Internet Access 1/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 4/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 2/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 1/5
  • Childcare 1/5
Just now

"There must be something keeping people here, but I'm not sure what"

Haswell is truly a tiny little town in just about one of the most remote places in Colorado. The 68 people who live here have to travel far just for basic needs. Although in different directions, Haswell is one hour from La Junta and one hour from Lamar. Although these are the closest places for shopping, they are by no means big cities.

When you drive through Haswell, it's kind of a shock to see it. There are several very nicely tended homes and the school building looks rather modern. But then there are also mobile homes which look as if they were just put down in the first empty spot. There are no real yards so it looks a bit strange. There is also the bizarre scene of a nicely kept home right across the street from what looks like a junk yard. The whole town has a weird vibe to it.

There are no amenities in the town, but there is a building that looks like a church, although from the outside I couldn't tell if it was in use or not. It looks like it may be but who knows?

The most common industry in the town is overwhelmingly agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, with a good portion of the residents working in that industry. The average household income is $28,250 with almost 40% of the people living below the poverty level. You can buy a detached house here for $31,960 although I don't know why anyone would want to.
Cons
  • remote
  • no amenities
  • very run down in some spots
4/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 4/5
  • Clean & Green 5/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 5/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 4/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 4/5
  • Cost of Living 5/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 4/5
  • Childcare 3/5
Just now

"A great place to raise a family"

We have friends who live in Wellington and other than the long drive it takes us to get there, I absolutely love it and think it's a great place to raise a family. Our friends are very close to their neighbors and they have cook outs in the summer and all the kids get together to play. There is a nice sense of community here, and although the schools here aren't stellar, they are pretty good. Most of the homes are more modern and the streets are nice and wide without much traffic. Although there aren't any really beautiful, big tree lined streets because the area is newer, there are numerous nice views around, especially on the outskirts of town. Within just a few minutes are several reservoirs and the amount of water in the area really helps to make this place look green.

The median household income here is above Colorado's average by about $8,000, but the average cost of a home here is about $40,000 less, making the cost of living here really good. There are several locally owned restaurants and a couple of fast food places here too. For more restaurant options or bigger shopping, Fort Collins is just 15 minutes away.

Overall, this is a nice area that has many families and seems to be family oriented. There are nice subdivisions as well as homes on more property, with a more rural setting. The cost of living is really good and this may be the perfect place for families looking for a quieter town to live in.
Pros
  • affordable bedroom community of Fort Collins
  • close to mountains
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 3/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 3/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 5/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 1/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 2/5
  • Childcare 2/5
Just now

"A good mix of ethnicity here"

Ignacio lies on the southern tip of Colorado, just above New Mexico. This town of 705 people represents a good mix of Hispanic, white, and American Indian. The major industry here is retail, followed closely by construction. The town is the headquarters for the Southern Ute Indian Nation. The town of Ignacio itself has some very scenic views from the outer lying areas. It's hard to see the views from most points in town though. Since Ignacio lies along the river, there is an abundance of large, beautiful trees here.

The median household income here is $43,271 but the median home prices is just $120,170, so the cost of living here is pretty good. However, for families with school aged children, the schools are far from good and are some of the lowest academically achieving in the state.

Ignacio has some cool festivals in town and there is plenty to do nearby for tourists. There are a lot of outdoor activities and places to rent horses or ATVs to tour the countryside. Four corners is only about an hour away.

The thing I like most about Ignacio is the Indian heritage that is present. They are a proud people and there is so much in their history that is rich and wonderful to experience. If you're in the area, Ignacio should be on your list of places to visit.
Pros
  • native american culture
Cons
  • remote

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