Homegrown Moving is committed to providing a moving experience no other moving company in Denver can offer. We offer any service you need, including long-distance moves, office moves, and storage services.
Homegrown Moving in 2016 to provide Denver residents with a unique and stress-free moving experience. Our company started in a garage in the Denver area, and we’ve steadily expanded our service area and catalog. We now have a full-scale moving and storage facility in Lakewood with a reach all throughout the United States, making us the best moving company in Denver.
Living in Colorado offers amazing scenery, thriving cities, and endless outdoor recreation. Known as the Centennial State, Colorado became the 38th state in 1876 and has since drawn people from all over the world with its world-class hiking, stunning national parks like Rocky Mountain National Park and Gunnison National Park, and legendary ski season.
Whether you’re considering becoming a Colorado resident or simply asking, “Should I move to Colorado?,” it’s worth knowing that the state boasts a strong job market, bustling communities from Denver to small mountain towns, and plenty of activities that your family can enjoy for your whole lives. Before you pack your bags, check out these things to know before moving to Colorado, including lifestyle quirks, unique laws Colorado requires, and how the mountains might just be the perfect place to call home.
Yes, Colorado is a good place to live. After moving to Colorado, you can enjoy everything the Centennial State has to offer, from endless outdoor activities at national parks to excellent job opportunities in the state’s big cities. Living in Colorado has so much to offer families of all sizes and backgrounds.
What Is Colorado Known for?
If you’re moving to Colorado, you’ll quickly discover it’s known for its stunning national parks, incredible outdoor recreation, and world-famous ski resorts. From the energy of Colorado Springs to charming mountain towns, the state offers endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring diverse landscapes.
Colorado is a landlocked state in the western United States, part of both the Mountain West and Southwestern regions. Known for its average elevation of 6,800 feet, the highest of any state, it’s surrounded by Wyoming to the north, Nebraska to the southeast, Kansas to the east, Oklahoma to the southeast, New Mexico to the south, Utah to the west, and touches Arizona at the Four Corners. As such, you’ll be able to take many fun weekend trips when living in Colorado.
What Region is Colorado in?
After moving to Colorado, you’ll be within the Mountain West and the Southwestern U.S.
What Are the Main Regions of Colorado?
From the Rockies to the Eastern Plains, and from the Western Slope to the Front Range cities, each area offers a unique appeal for those moving to Colorado.
Colorado’s transportation network makes living in Colorado and traveling within the state convenient, whether you’re commuting along major highways like I-25, I-70, and I-76 or exploring mountain towns via scenic byways. Public transit is strongest in the Denver metro area, with RTD offering buses, light rail, and commuter rail – helpful for those moving to Colorado who want alternatives to driving.
Does Colorado Have Public Transportation?
Yes, but options for residents moving to Colorado are concentrated in urban areas like Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs.
What Are the Major Airports in Colorado?
The largest is Denver International Airport, one of the busiest in the world. Other key airports for those moving to Colorado include Colorado Springs Airport and regional hubs in ski destinations like Aspen and Vail.
What Is the Population of Colorado?
The Colorado population is about 5.8 million, ranking 21st in the U.S., with a density of roughly 56.7 people per square mile. Growth has been steady over the past decade, driven by newcomers moving to Colorado for jobs and natural beauty.
The Denver metro area is the largest, home to over 3 million residents, followed by Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, and Boulder. While living in Colorado appeals to many, growth is fastest along the Front Range, and the population of those moving to Colorado in this area is projected to keep climbing.
Colorado Demographics
Here are some demographics you should know before moving to Colorado, including average median income in Colorado, sex ratio, and more.
Sex ratio: 51% male, 49% female
Median age: 37.9
Racial & ethnic composition: 87% White (64% non-Hispanic), 5% two or more races, 4% Black or African American, 3% Asian, 1% other race
Colorado median household income: $92,911 (above the U.S. average of $77,719)
Educational attainment: 93.3% high school degree (or higher), 46.4% bachelor’s degree (or higher)
Foreign-born population: 9.6%
What Famous People Are From Colorado?
After moving to Colorado, you’ll walk the same streets as many notable people. Here are a few famous residents who made living in Colorado a reality.
If you’re moving to Colorado or already living in Colorado, you’ll find that the state’s major cities offer culture, opportunity, and plenty of outdoor activities. Here’s a look at the largest Colorado cities by population, helpful for anyone comparing big cities in Colorado before relocating.
Denver (729,019): The state capital and cultural hub, Denver is a popular choice among young professionals moving to Colorado due to the thriving job market.
Colorado Springs (493,554): Known for its military presence, amazing mountain views, and proximity to outdoor gems like Garden of the Gods.
Aurora (403,130): A quick-growing community known for family-friendly neighborhoods and a strong healthcare sector.
Lakewood (156,868): Offers suburban comfort near Denver, with plenty of parks, open space, and access to mountains.
Fort Collins (107,924): Popular among college students moving to Colorado, Fort Collins has a big craft beer scene and a historic downtown.
Cities in Colorado Map
What Are the Best Places to Live in Colorado?
Before moving to Colorado, you’ll want to find the best place to settle down. Here are a few of the best cities to live in Colorado based on your specific needs.
What Are the Best Places to Live in Colorado for Families?
If you’re moving to Colorado with kids, some of the best cities to live in Colorado for families combine excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and plenty of parks. Fort Collins is a top pick, and this college town offers a bustling downtown area and endless family-friendly outdoor recreation.
Parker, just south of Denver, offers easy access to the Front Range and a strong sense of community. Colorado Springs is another favorite, known for its affordable housing (compared to Denver), family attractions, and mountain views.
What Are the Best Places to Retire in Colorado?
For retirees living in Colorado, spots like Glenwood Springs offer natural hot springs and a slower pace of life. Silverthorne, in the Western half of the state, provides both small-town charm and quick access to ski resorts. The Eastern plains and high plains can also appeal to retirees seeking wide-open spaces, quieter living, and lower costs while still enjoying the perks of moving to Colorado.
What Are the Best Cities in Colorado for Young Adults?
If you’re moving to Colorado as a young professional, you may prefer cities with nightlife, job opportunities, and easy access to outdoor adventure. Boulder is one of these cities, offering a great mix of tech jobs and fun social activities. Denver provides a bigger-city feel with dining, arts, and music around every corner. Fort Collins is a fun college town with breweries, live music, and a relaxed vibe, making it one of the best cities to live in Colorado for 20 and 30 somethings.
Beauty is everywhere when living in Colorado, but for stunning landscapes, head to the Front Range cities like Boulder or Colorado Springs, where mountain views dominate daily life. In the Western half (Eastern Colorado is flatter), places like Silverthorne and Glenwood Springs are surrounded by alpine scenery and year-round outdoor adventures, perfect for those who are moving to Colorado for its natural beauty.
What Is the Cost of Living in Colorado?
Is Colorado expensive? How much does it cost to live in Colorado? These are common questions among residents considering moving to Colorado. Colorado has a relatively high cost of living, but it can vary greatly depending on where you decide to settle down.
The Colorado Cost of Living Index is 120.5. This means that the average cost of living in Colorado is 20.5% more expensive than the national average. However, after moving to Colorado, you’ll find that some areas are more expensive than others. For example, the Denver area is one of the most expensive metros, with a cost of living that is 8.6% above the national average, while the Pueblo area is 7.3% more affordable than the national average.
If you’re moving to Colorado, you’ll find the state’s tax structure is relatively straightforward. Colorado is known for its low property taxes, averaging around .45% of a home’s assessed value, according to the Tax Foundation.
The state has a flat income tax rate of 4.4%, meaning everyone pays the same percentage regardless of income level. Sales tax starts at 2.9% statewide, but local rates can increase the total depending on the city or county.
If you’re considering moving to Colorado, then you’ll need to get a better understanding of the Colorado real estate market, including rent and housing prices. According to Redfin, home prices in Colorado are up 0.6% year-over-year; however, the number of homes sold fell 2.1%.
When moving to Colorado, you may also be curious about whether it’s more affordable to buy or to rent. According to the 2022 ATTOM Rental Affordability Report, it’s typically more affordable to rent than to buy in Colorado. A few exceptions include Park County, Canon City, Pueblo, and Fort Morgan.
What Is the Average Rent in Colorado?
If you’re moving to Colorado and looking to rent, you’ll have an abundance of options to choose from. According to Apartments.com, the average rent in Colorado is $1,604. When it comes to the most affordable cities to rent in Colorado, Rye ($460), Fowler ($469), Delta ($511), and Gunnison ($564) come out on top.
Here’s the average rent in a few of Colorado’s major cities, according to RentCafe.
Denver: $1,935
Fort Collins: $2,033
Boulder: $2,530
Aurora: $1,864
Lakewood: $1,855
Colorado Springs: $1,527
What Is the Average Home Price in Colorado?
If you’d rather buy a home when moving to Colorado, then there are plenty of homes for sale. According to Redfin, the average home price in Colorado is $596,900, which is higher than the national average of $446,000. Cities with the fastest-growing home prices include Durango, Southglenn, and Loveland, while the most competitive cities include Fairmount, Applewood, and Castlewood.
What kind of weather can you expect after moving to Colorado? The Colorado climate is classified as a semi-arid climate, with a dry climate, low humidity, and abundant sunshine year-round. The Front Range, where many people are living in Colorado, experiences four distinct seasons, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
What Is the Average Temperature in Colorado?
The average temperature in Colorado varies by elevation, but statewide averages range from the mid-80s°F in the summer months to the 40s°F during the winter months. In Denver climate terms, expect summer highs near 90°F and winter lows in the teens.
Does It Snow in Colorado?
Yes, Colorado annual snowfall can exceed 300 inches in mountain areas, while cities like Denver average 60 inches per year.
How Much Rain Does Colorado Get?
Colorado annual rainfall is relatively low, averaging around 15 to 20 inches, thanks to its arid climate.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Colorado?
Early fall offers mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a great time to visit Colorado for outdoor activities and a quiet atmosphere.
Are There Any Unique Weather Concerns in Colorado?
At higher elevations, altitude sickness can affect newcomers moving to Colorado. The state also sees occasional wildfires and summer thunderstorms in the plains.
Things to Do in Colorado
Whether you’re moving to Colorado or visiting the Centennial State, the sheer variety of attractions is staggering. From the towering Rocky Mountains to ancient cliff dwellings, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Colorado.
You’ll find ski resorts, hiking trails, national parks, and the highest peaks in the lower 48, along with family-friendly attractions in Colorado that appeal to all ages. At over a mile above sea level, the state’s landscapes range from alpine tundra to desert dunes, offering some of the best things to do in Colorado for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
If you’re wondering what to do in Colorado, here are the top Colorado attractions and Colorado activities for kids, couples, and adventure seekers.
A crown jewel of the Rocky Mountains, Rocky Mountain National Park offers more than 350 miles of hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives like Trail Ridge Road. Perfect for Colorado family activities and outdoor adventures.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing ancient Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings. Mesa Verde National Park is one of the most unique things to do in Colorado with kids and those who enjoy an active lifestyle.
Sports are a big part of life for those moving to Colorado or already living here, with professional sports teams in every major league and a strong winter sports culture. Denver is the state’s sports hub, home to the Denver Broncos (NFL), Colorado Rockies (MLB), Denver Nuggets (NBA), and Colorado Avalanche (NHL), each with championship titles to their name. Soccer fans living in Colorado can cheer for the Colorado Rapids (MLS), while lacrosse has grown with the Colorado Mammoth (NLL).
College sports are also popular, especially the University of Colorado Buffaloes and Colorado State Rams, whose football rivalry draws big crowds. The state hosts major events like the X Games in Aspen and numerous ski and snowboard competitions, reflecting its winter sports dominance. Iconic venues include Empower Field at Mile High and Ball Arena, making Denver a top sports city for anyone moving to Colorado.
Is Colorado Safe?
Is living in Colorado safe? Overall, Colorado is a very safe place to live. While some areas see more crime, most cities remain very safe for residents and visitors.
What Is the Crime Rate in Colorado?
Overall crime rate: 3,640 crimes per 100,000 people (36.1% higher than national average)
Violent crime rate: 493 crimes per 100,000 people (24.9% higher than national average)
Property crime rate: 3,148 crimes per 100,000 people (37.9% higher than national average)
What Are the Safest Cities in Colorado?
These are a few of the safest cities to consider when moving to Colorado
City
Population
Crime Rate Compared to State Average
Avon
5,968
49.4% lower
Carbondale
6,528
79.0% lower
Rifle
10,612
35.8% lower
Evans
22,333
18.3% lower
Castle Rock
79,102
67.2% lower
What Is the Murder Rate in Colorado?
The murder rate in Colorado is 6.4 per 100,000 people.
Are you moving to Colorado in search of a job? Colorado has a very strong job market, with a gross state product of about $421 billion (16th-largest in the country).
What Are the Major Industries in Colorado?
Colorado’s economy is based on a broad mix of industries. The state is especially known for its high-tech and aerospace sectors, and has the nation’s highest concentration of private aerospace employment, according to Choose Colorado.
Tourism and outdoor recreation also play a big role among employees living in Colorado, from skiing and mountain resorts to national parks, making travel and hospitality a multi-billion-dollar industry.
Colorado also pioneered the legal cannabis industry, which by 2021 was the nation’s
fourth-largest marijuana market (about $460 million in sales).
According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary in Colorado is $56,726 per year ($27.27 per hour).
How Can I Find Jobs in Colorado?
If you’re looking for jobs when moving to Colorado, you can check out various city job boards or do a quick search on Indeed.
Education in Colorado
If you’re moving to Colorado with children, then you may be curious about Colorado schools. Colorado is known for its excellent schooling, and U.S. News & World Report ranked it as the third-best state in the country for education. Additionally, the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metro area is noted among the top U.S. regions where Colorado high schools consistently outperform.
What Are the Best School Districts in Colorado?
Cheyenne Mountain School District 12 earned the title of the #1 Best School District in Colorado, according to Niche. Another Colorado school district that consistently receives top marks is the Douglas County School District.
If you’re moving to Colorado in search of higher education, you’re in luck. Top public institutions in Colorado include Colorado School of Mines, University of Colorado Boulder, University of Denver, and Colorado State University.
Fun Facts About Colorado
Whether you’re moving to Colorado or living in Colorado, these fun facts are good to know.
Colorado’s mountainous region is six times the size of Switzerland
One-third of Colorado’s land is owned by the United States Federal Government
The Dwight Eisenhower Memorial Tunnel is the world’s highest auto tunnel
Leadville stands as the highest incorporated city in the United States at 10,430 feet
Denver hosts the world’s largest indoor rodeo
Pros and Cons of Living in Colorado
Wondering if moving to Colorado is right for you? There are plenty of drawbacks and benefits of living in Colorado to consider.
Pros
Natural scenery
Outdoor activities year-round
Strong economy with low unemployment rate
300+ days of sunshine
Active, health-conscious lifestyle
Cons
High cost of living in popular cities like Denver and Boulder
Housing market is competitive
Dry climate and high altitude can cause health adjustments
Heavy traffic in metro areas
Is Moving to Colorado Right for You?
There are plenty of reasons to move to Colorado! If you’ve decided that living in Colorado is right for you, then Homegrown Moving & Storage is here for you! Our Colorado movers will make moving to Colorado smooth and stress-free. To get started with a free quote, give us a call today at (303) 587-6200.
Toby Martinez
Toby and all of our staff are Colorado natives, hence the name Homegrown Moving and Storage Company. Toby has been active in the Denver Metro business community for over 20 years. He has been in the moving industry since 2010 and brings great experience to the daily operations of this 5 star rated local moving company. He and the Homegrown Moving and Storage Company team are committed to offering outstanding service at a reasonable cost. As Denver has grown dramatically over the past several years, so have our moving services and capabilities in order to keep up with the changes of our city. We hope to speak with you soon about how our team can help meet your moving needs here in Colorado.
