10 Pros and Cons of Living in Colorado

Are you considering Colorado for your new home? The “Centennial State” is home to around 5.7 million people who reap the benefits of beautiful nature, world-class outdoor activities, and an amazing food and drink scene. So, whether you plan on purchasing a house in Denver or renting an apartment in Boulder, you will be sure to find the perfect place to call home. To help you figure out whether Colorado is a good place to live, this Redfin article will break down the pros and cons of living in Colorado. Keep reading to see what’s to love and what’s not to love about the state. 

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Quick Facts about Colorado

Is Colorado a good place to live?

Yes, Colorado is a good place to live for many people, especially those who value outdoor access, a healthy lifestyle, and a strong job market. The state offers a mix of vibrant cities like Denver and Boulder with plenty of economic opportunities (particularly in tech, aerospace, and healthcare) alongside scenic small towns and mountain communities. Its natural landscape is a major draw, with world-class hiking, skiing, and national parks right in your backyard.

That said, the cost of living can be a barrier. Housing prices, especially along the Front Range, are well above the national average. Traffic in urban areas continues to grow, and the state has been grappling with water shortages and wildfire risk. Whether Colorado is the right fit comes down to what you value: if you’re looking for a dynamic place with outdoor appeal and don’t mind paying more for it, Colorado delivers. But for those prioritizing affordability or urban convenience, it might feel like a tougher tradeoff.

1. Pro: The scenery is stunning and the access to nature is unmatched 

Colorado is an adventurer’s playground with access to world-class ski resorts, beautiful national and state parks, and an abundance of outdoor activities like climbing, rafting, and biking. During the winter, locals enjoy skiing at one of over 25 ski resorts including Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Telluride, Vail, and Winter Park. 

Colorado is also home to four national parks, namely Rocky Mountain National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Some of the state parks you need to check out include Cherry Creek State Park, Roxborough State Park, Golden Gate Canyon State Park, and St. Vrain State Park. Not to mention you can climb one of the over 50 famous 14ers, a mountain peak over 14,000 feet. 

2. Con: Home prices are high

Colorado’s scenic beauty and growing job market come at a cost: housing. The median home sale price in the state is around $623,400, significantly higher than the national median of $438,000. A recent study found that the annual household income needed to afford a typical home in Colorado is $168,643, making it the fifth highest in the country. While some cities like Colorado Springs or Fort Collins may offer relatively lower prices compared to Boulder or Denver, affordability remains a hurdle for many, especially first-time buyers.

3. Pro: Strong job market in emerging industries

Colorado has built a reputation for economic stability and innovation, especially in fields like technology, aerospace, renewable energy, and healthcare. Cities like Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs are home to a mix of startups and established employers, making them attractive hubs for professionals. Major companies like Google and Ball Aerospace have expanded operations here, drawn by the state’s skilled workforce and business-friendly environment. Whether you’re launching a career or looking to make a change, Colorado’s mix of opportunity and forward-thinking industries makes it a solid place to grow professionally.

4. Con: Limited water resources amid ongoing drought

Water scarcity is a long-term challenge in Colorado. Much of the state relies on snowpack to fill reservoirs, and when winters are unusually dry, it can strain supplies. While cities are taking steps to encourage conservation and improve water infrastructure, it’s something to keep in mind, especially for homeowners with large yards or people moving from regions with more rainfall.

5. Pro: Health-conscious and active lifestyle

Living in Colorado often means embracing an outdoor-oriented, wellness-focused way of life. The state is consistently ranked among the healthiest in the nation, and it’s not hard to see why. With more than 300 days of sunshine annually and easy access to national parks, ski resorts, bike trails, and climbing routes, outdoor recreation is part of the everyday culture. Locals prioritize fitness, clean eating, and sustainability — and it’s common to see running groups, yoga meetups, and weekend hikers filling up the trails. If you’re someone who values staying active and being outside, this lifestyle is a major perk.

6. Con: Adjusting to the altitude can be a challenge 

If you’re moving to Colorado, you’ll quickly learn that living at a higher elevation affects more than just your hiking stamina. The altitude can cause headaches, dehydration, and fatigue – especially for newcomers. Everyday activities like walking or exercising may feel harder at first, and it takes time to acclimate, particularly if you’re moving from a lower elevation.

7. Pro: Vibrant food and craft beverage scene

Colorado’s culinary scene has evolved well beyond mountain fare and green chili. The state is now home to some of the most exciting restaurants in the West, especially in cities like Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins. From locally sourced fine dining to a thriving farmer’s market culture, food lovers can expect variety and quality. The craft beer scene is particularly celebrated – Colorado has one of the highest numbers of breweries per capita in the U.S., and the state is also becoming known for its small-batch distilleries and craft coffee roasters. Whether you’re a foodie, a beer enthusiast, or just looking for new flavors, Colorado delivers.

8. Con: Traffic and growing congestion throughout the state

As Colorado’s population continues to grow, especially in urban hubs like Denver and Colorado Springs, traffic has become a daily hassle for many residents. Commute times are getting longer, and major road projects can add to the delays. While public transit options exist in some areas, most Coloradans rely on cars, which adds to congestion during peak hours. Weekends in the mountains often bring gridlock on I-70, especially during ski season.

9. Pro: There’s a lively sports scene in Colorado

If you love sports, this state is for you. Colorado has an electric sports atmosphere being home to teams across multiple professional leagues. Local favorites include the Denver Broncos (NFL), Colorado Rockies (MLB), Colorado Rapids (MLS), Colorado Avalanche (NHL), and Denver Nuggets (NBA). While in the area, be sure to catch a game at Empower Field, Coors Field, Dicks Sporting Goods Park, or Ball Arena. 

10. Con: Wildfire risk and smoke

Wildfires are part of life in many parts of Colorado, particularly during dry summers and early fall. While not every area is at high risk, smoke from regional fires can still affect air quality across the state, leading to hazy skies and occasional health advisories. The state has improved its alert systems and mitigation efforts, but it’s something to be aware of, especially for those with respiratory conditions.

Methodology: The population data is from the United States Census Bureau and the median home sale price and average rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. 

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