Colorado is changing at a rapid pace. There are people from all over the world who are now willing to move here, and call it home. Colorado is undergoing faster population growth than ever before. The primary areas that experienced the most growth were El Paso County, followed by Denver and Greeley’s Weld County. Growth, however, was not limited to the larger cities as the fastest growth was actually noticed in small rural counties.
Colorado is the fourth fastest growing economy in the country. These statistics are the main contributor as to why is everyone choosing to move to Colorado. With thriving economic growth, Colorado has become THE place to find a job. No matter if it’s college graduates or parents looking for a change in lifestyle, there are many people starting their careers in Colorado.
While new job opportunities are the biggest factor influencing the new people to move to Colorado, the lifestyle that comes with it is also very appealing. Here are some of the reasons you should consider moving to Colorado:
- Four seasons
- Lots of outside activities for the nature lovers
- Cost of living is near national average
- Education
- Friendly neighbors
- Colorado is dog-friendly
- Food scene is off the hook
- Helth benefits
Four seasons
If you are from out of state, you probably assume it snows here all the time. But that is just not true. People who appreciate four distinct seasons with lots of sunshine find a lot to like about Colorado, as the desert climate offers upwards of 300 sunny days per year. Summers are not too hot, and winters are not too cold. Springtime is beautiful. If there is any complaint about the weather, it’s that it is too good.
Lots of outside activities for the nature lovers
The beauty of Colorado’s nature simply cannot be put into words. When you move here, the opportunity to spot a moose, mountain wolf or bald eagle in your lifetime significantly increases. If you like the outdoors, you’ll love living here. Colorado has year-round options including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, camping, rafting and even paragliding. So, prepare your camera, this might be the time of your life! The state is home to 4 national parks, 7 national monuments, 2 national historic sites, 3 national historic trails, 11 national forests, 2 national grasslands, 41 national wilderness areas, 2 national conservation areas, 8 national wildlife refuges, 44 state parks, 307 state wildlife areas, and a great number of other scenic, historic, and recreational areas.
Cost of living is near national average
Colorado’s cost of living is slightly higher than the national average, but it’s not that bad. It isn’t as cheap as the big cities in Texas, but it’s not nearly as expensive as Los Angeles or New York. Colorado is a flat-tax state; the income tax rate is 4.63% regardless of the income level. Colorado’s property tax rates are among the nation’s lowest (average effective property tax rate of just 0.63%).
Education
Plenty of suburbs, good and safe neighborhoods make it easy to start a family here. Here we have great elementary schools, good middle schools, good high schools and great colleges as well. Colleges are a big part of the local community. Colorado is well above the average when it comes to education. The graduation rate is increased to 79 percent for the Class of 2017 and is the highest rate since 2010. Colorado’s wealth of high-skill jobs results in a very well-educated population. Here are some of the universities:
- University of Colorado
- University of Denver
- Colorado College
- U.S. Air Force Academy
Friendly neighborhoods to move into
There are a lot of different people, from a lot of different places in the country. They are really open to a lot of different ethnic backgrounds. So, they are very welcoming, and they are open to other types of people. Therefore, they are pretty friendly. That brings us to the next point – Colorado has amazing sports fans. They are really passionate about their football and hockey teams. If you love the Denver Broncos or you like the Colorado Avalanche, go into that type of events with your new friends and you’ll have a blast!
Colorado is dog-friendly
Most campgrounds in Colorado state parks allow dogs. So, bring the pup along so they can enjoy the great outdoors with you. A change of scene is just as beneficial for your dog as it is for you. A chance for them to explore is incredibly valuable! Offer them the outdoor adventure of a lifetime!
Cherry Creek and Chatfield State Parks both offer fenced-in areas where dogs are allowed without leashes. They include miles of trails and water for dogs to play in! Take a day to let your pup meet some fellow canines, and run free.
Food scene is off the hook
Here you can find a bunch of locally owned shops. In this state, we appreciate the craft. Craft coffee, craft beer, craft vine. You name it! Colorado does farm-to-table better than just about any other state. Restaurants across the land strive to source herbs and meats from local farmers. Colorado has the goods when it comes to fresh produce, not to mention the artists behind exquisitely crafted bites that travelers and locals can’t get enough of. Make sure to try: trout, oysters, bison burgers and green chili.
Health benefits
The obvious never-ending opportunities to be active make Colorado a perfect place to live if you’re looking to live a healthier life. Mountain states tend to attract health-conscious people and inspire active lifestyles. But some studies suggest that just living at high elevations improves health, thanks to the “thinner” air. Another trend of those living at high altitudes is a lower level of people with obesity. Some scientists say it’s because people exercise more, and others say it’s possible that it takes more energy for the body to function at higher elevations. Whatever the reason, no one can whine about lower levels of obesity.
