8 Tips for People Moving to Colorado

Whether you were born in Colorado and are simply moving to a new home in the area, or you’re moving into the state from further afield, you’re hopefully very aware of what Colorado has to offer. There are so many reasons to move to Colorado. You might be interested in the stunning mountain ranges and natural beauty, the up-and-coming economic boom in the area, or it might simply be that your family or work happen to be in Colorado as well.

But whatever your reasons, here are some tips to help you find a place to live in Colorado, as well as some things you might need to look out for.

Major Cities in Colorado

For most people, the first place they look is the major cities. Denver is the capital of Colorado, but Colorado Springs and Aurora are both considered major cities with over 400,000 residents. There are also a number of big cities like Fort Collins and Lakewood.

People move to cities like this because of the opportunities they present. You can often have an easier time finding work in a larger city, and you also have other advantages like public transport, local amenities, and plenty of things to see and do in the city itself.

If you’re interested in being in the middle of everything, these cities are the place to go. However, bear in mind that rent can be more expensive in larger cities, especially nearer the city center.

Benefits of Suburbs and Smaller Towns

Moving into the middle of a big city is appealing to some people, but it’s definitely not the only option.

The suburbs are a very popular option, because they kind of give you the best of both worlds. You’re close to a city, but you can still enjoy a slower, more neighborhood-oriented way of life. You can be part of a smaller community. You also have quieter streets and a safer atmosphere, and in some suburbs, you can even see some amazing views.

Another option is to stay out of the city entirely and instead move to towns and villages. There are fewer work opportunities here, but you can often build a comfortable life. You might even find that the cost of living is cheaper outside of the city, and you’re much closer to nature.

Commuting and Traffic

One thing you will notice about Colorado, and especially in Denver itself, is that the traffic at peak times can be problematic. Rush hour traffic can start earlier than you might expect, so you might get stuck. Even hill towns can see some significant traffic at certain times.

It’s a good idea to learn different routes. Sometimes the more direct route isn’t the quickest one, because you might be able to avoid more traffic by going a different way. Or, if possible, ditch the car completely. Colorado boasts a lot of bike and pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.

Renting in Colorado

The most common way to find a home is to rent it. Renting is often easier for people who want more flexibility or don’t want the huge upfront cost of getting a mortgage.

However, the rental laws differ from state to state. If you’re moving into the state, become familiar with what a Colorado rental application looks like. Your potential landlord or their management company might be able to find a copy for you.

Shop around different properties based on commute and price. You might find that prices differ a lot from one neighborhood to another, so simply by extending your commute by a few minutes, you could save hundreds of dollars a month. Always view the property in person if possible.

Buying Property in Colorado

Another way to find a home is to buy property. This has some upsides and downsides compared to renting. It’s a more permanent option, as the buying and selling process takes much longer and is more stressful than renting. It can also be more difficult to get a mortgage, as you will need a good credit score, so someone who could rent a house might not be eligible to buy the same property.

The big upside to buying a house is the control you can have over it. Yes, you’re responsible for maintenance, but you can also decorate and improve it as you wish. Even better, you have a physical asset at the end of the day. With rent, you pay a set amount to live in a property, and that money goes to a landlord. But when you buy, you can have a house once you’ve paid off your mortgage, and the monthly costs might not even be as much as you’d pay in rent.

Managing Weather Changes

One thing that really sets Colorado apart from the rest of the US is the weather. Colorado can be changeable, and you’ll find that there are long, harsh winters. You can comfortably expect snow in spring, and you might even have several types of weather in one day.

Research what winter in Colorado is like to live in and make sure that you’re prepared for the elements. It’s a beautiful place, but it comes at a cost.

The Active Colorado Lifestyle

Colorado sits in a naturally beautiful area, complete with hills, mountains, and forests. All of this makes it perfect for a more active lifestyle with outdoor activities, and many residents get very involved in this culture.

If you do enjoy outdoor activities, especially ones that involve moving and exploring, you might find a community and a home in Colorado.

Planning Your Move

So, you’ve found a house, and you understand what it would be like to live in Colorado. The next step is moving house. 

If you’re moving across states, look into hiring movers who are used to long-distance moves. You can also consider using self-storage to break up a move, especially if you’ve already moved out of your previous home and are staying in other accommodation or a smaller temporary rental property.