Colorado Springs is a diverse city known for its natural beauty, cuisine, and cultural heritage. But is it a good place to live? While it offers outside activities like hiking in the Garden of the Gods and a lively community that hosts events like Pikes Peak or the Half Rodeo, there are still some challenges to consider. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in Colorado Springs to help you decide if it’s right for you.
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Basic information about Colorado Springs
| Median home sales price | $475,000 |
| average monthly rent | $1,435 |
| walk score | 36/100 |
| traffic score | 19/100 |
| bike score | 45/100 |
1. Pros: Stunning natural scenery
Colorado Springs is known for its stunning natural beauty. The city is home to the Garden of the Gods, a park with towering red rock formations that attracts visitors from all over the world. Additionally, Pikes Peak is one of the most famous mountains in the United States, with unparalleled hiking trails and panoramic views. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities year-round, from hiking and mountain biking in the summer to skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
2. Disadvantages: high altitude
One of the challenges of living in Colorado Springs is its altitude. The city is over 6,000 feet above sea level, which can pose health challenges to newcomers, such as altitude sickness. This may manifest as headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath, especially in those not accustomed to such altitudes. Additionally, thinner air can make physical activity more strenuous, which can be a disadvantage for some residents.
3. Advantages: Clean air
Colorado Springs has clean air due to its high altitude and relatively low population density compared to other cities. The city’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains also helps mitigate pollution levels and provides residents with fresh mountain air. This clean air helps people living in Colorado Springs have a healthier, more enjoyable outdoor lifestyle.
4. Cons: Few transportation options
While Colorado Springs offers some public transportation options, it has a Transportation Score of 19, meaning minimal transportation is available. The city’s bus system, Mountain Metro Transit, has a limited number of routes and schedules, making commuting without a car challenging. This may be particularly inconvenient for residents who rely on mass transit for their daily commute or who prefer not to drive.
5. Advantages: Active lifestyle
In Colorado Springs, an active lifestyle is ingrained in the city’s culture, and there are ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing at nearby natural wonders like Pikes Peak and Cheyenne Mountain. The city’s numerous parks, trails and recreational facilities encourage residents to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors year-round.
6. Disadvantages: Changeable weather
The weather in Colorado Springs can be highly variable, which can be a disadvantage for some residents. The city often experiences a variety of temperatures and weather conditions within the same day. This unpredictability makes planning outdoor activities challenging and can be frustrating for those who prefer more consistent weather patterns.
7. Advantages: Excellent educational institution
Colorado Springs is home to several highly regarded educational institutions. The United States Air Force Academy is one of the most prestigious military academies in the United States, providing rigorous academic and leadership training. Additionally, Colorado College is known for its innovative blocking program, which allows students to focus on one course at a time.
8. Disadvantages: Winter driving conditions
Winter driving conditions in Colorado Springs can be hazardous due to ice and snow on the roads, especially at higher elevations. Sudden snowstorms and freezing temperatures can cause slippery roads and reduced visibility, making commuting challenging for residents.
9. Advantages: Outdoor recreation opportunities
Colorado offers countless opportunities for outdoor recreation, with a diverse landscape ranging from majestic mountains to vast plains. Whether you’re skiing at world-famous resorts like Aspen and Vail, hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, or rafting on the Arkansas River, there’s something for everyone.
10. Disadvantages: Limited water resources
Colorado Springs faces limited water issues, a challenge exacerbated by a semi-arid climate and a growing population. Drought and changing weather patterns pose major concerns as the city relies on snowpack and precipitation from the Rockies for much of its water supply.
method: Median home sales price and average monthly rent data come from Red Fin Information Center. Walk score, transit score, and bike score data come from walk score.
