Thinking about moving to Colorado? The state has a $458 billion economy, and growing jobs in the tech, healthcare, and aerospace sectors. Plus, with its top-notch education and healthcare systems, it was the top choice to move to for over 39,000 people in 2024.
But the move comes with trade-offs. The median home price is over $549,409, and renting a house costs 7% more than the national average. Still, many are choosing cities like Denver, Colorado Springs, and Aurora for their higher quality of life.
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AT A GLANCE:
- Colorado has a $458 billion economy, with growing jobs in the tech, healthcare, and aerospace sectors.
- The cost of living in Colorado is 4% higher than the national average. Rent in Colorado is also significantly more expensive.
- Colorado ranks 3rd in the country for education, and among the top 10 states for its healthcare system.
- Colorado offers some of the lowest individual income and property taxes in the US.
- Expect to pay between $2,200 and $6,400 for your move, depending on how far you’re moving and the size of your belongings.
- With over 245 days of sunshine annually and a diverse landscape of mountains, forests, and plains, Colorado is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
3 Reasons to Move to Colorado
Why settle for just sunny beaches when you can also enjoy the high life? Browse through over thousands of mansions, high-rise penthouses, and spacious luxury homes for sale in Colorado, and enjoy the finest the state has to offer.
1. Jobs in Colorado
Home to 8 Fortune 500 companies, Colorado has the 6th-best economy in the US.
- Technology: The tech sector in Colorado accounts for 20% of the state’s GDP, and supports 10% of the total employment in the state. The sector added over 47,000 jobs in the past 5 years, and is expected to grow by 11.5% in the years to come.
- Healthcare: The healthcare sector in Colorado contributes $42.6 billion to the state’s GDP, and supports around 249,000 jobs across the state. Registered nurses, pharmacists, and physical therapists are in high demand in Colorado.
- Aerospace: With 2,000 aerospace businesses, Colorado’s aerospace industry contributes $22.8 billion and supports over 55,000 jobs in the state. On average, an aerospace worker in Colorado makes $72,935 a year.
2. Education in Colorado
With nearly a million students and 179 school districts across the state, Colorado ranks 3rd in the nation for education.
- Public Schools: Colorado has more than 1,900 public schools across the state. D’Evelyn Junior/Senior High School and The Vanguard School, both known for their STEM programs and college preparation, rank among the top public schools in the state.
- Private Schools: The state is home to 500 private schools. The average tuition for private schools in Colorado is $14,732 per year. Colorado Academy and Kent Denver School, both situated in Denver, are among the top private schools in the state.
- Higher Education: The state is home to 14 public four-year universities, including the University of Colorado and Colorado State University. Many of these institutions offer in-state tuition advantages and specialized workforce programs.
3. Outdoor Activities in Colorado
With over 245 days of sunshine, Colorado offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Rocky Mountain National Park is perfect for hiking, skiing, and hot air ballooning. Meanwhile, the Arkansas River is a hotspot for whitewater rafting, kayaking and fly fishing.
The Western Slope, particularly around Fruita, is a hub for world-class mountain biking events. The Southern Rockies are popular for their hot springs, with Pagosa Springs being a top destination.
Pros and Cons of Living in Colorado
Here are the benefits and drawbacks of moving to Colorado:
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. You will have access to growing jobs in the tech, healthcare, and aerospace sectors. | 1. The cost of living in Colorado is 4% higher than the US average. Housing and renting is significantly more expensive. |
| 2. Colorado ranks among the top 10 states for its education and healthcare systems. | 2. Due to its overburdened infrastructure, traffic congestion is a common issue in Colorado. |
| 3. With 245 days of sunshine and a diverse terrain, there are plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. | 3. Colorado’s dry climate makes it prone to frequent droughts and wildfires. |
Things to Know Before Moving to Colorado 📌
Here’s what you should keep in mind before relocating to Colorado:
1. Cost of Living in Colorado
The cost of living in Colorado is 4% higher than the national average. This means you’ll spend more on expenses like transportation, food, and healthcare, though utilities are relatively affordable.
Colorado is an attractive option compared to more popular states like California and New York, where living costs are 58% and 30% above the national average.
2. Infrastructure and Transportation
Colorado’s infrastructure does not match the needs of its growing population. 48% of roads are in poor condition, with 472 high-hazard dams across the state.
However, the state is actively investing in new projects like the I-70 Floyd Hill Project, which aims to improve road safety by adding a third westbound lane. Colorado is set to receive over $4 billion in federal funding over the next 5 years to improve its highways.
3. Climate in Colorado
Colorado has a diverse, semi-arid, high-elevation climate. The state has 4 distinct seasons, with significant regional variation in temperatures. On average, Colorado receives more than 245 days of sunshine, but its inland location keeps humidity low.
However, the state is prone to natural disasters, including wildfires, droughts, severe storms, avalanches, and floods. Before moving to Colorado, make sure to check the FEMA-designated high-risk zones and local guidelines in case of a disaster.
4. Laws and Regulations
- Vehicle and Driver’s License Requirements: You must transfer your driver’s license within 30 days, and register your vehicle within 90 days of moving to Colorado. You will need proof of residency, insurance, and title documents for registration.
- Moving to Colorado with Guns: People over 18 years are allowed to own a firearm. However, to carry it, you need a license from the county sheriff’s office. Keep in mind that the state strictly prohibits the sale, transfer, and possession of high-capacity magazines.
- Recreational Marijuana: Those aged 21 years or above are allowed to possess up to 2 ounces of marijuana for recreational purposes. You are also allowed to cultivate up to 6 plants (3 mature) in your home for personal use.
- Pet Registration Laws: Colorado does not have a statewide law requiring pet registration. Visit your city website to find out if your city has any local laws about this, and the process of application.
5. Tax Burden in Colorado
Here’s a breakdown of Colorado’s primary tax burden for an individual:
- Income Tax in Colorado: Colorado levies a flat 4.40% state income tax, which is already set to reduce to 4% after October 2025. However, some cities, including Denver, Glendale, and Sheridan, levy a local income tax known as the occupational privilege tax (OPT).
- Sales Tax in Colorado: Colorado has a 2.9% state sales tax, which is one of the lowest in the country. However, the average effective sales tax rate in Colorado is 7.81%, largely due to local sales tax that can go as high as 8.3%.
- Property Taxes in Colorado: Colorado has the 3rd-lowest property tax rate in the nation, with homeowners paying just 0.49% of their property’s assessed value. But keep in mind that cities also levy a local property tax in Colorado.
How to Move to Colorado?
Before buying a house in Colorado, follow this step-by-step guide for a seamless move:
1. How to Plan Your Logistics?
- If you want to skip all the heavy lifting, consider hiring a professional mover. You can expect to pay around $120 per hour. However, this amount can vary depending on the size of your belongings and the distance.
- If you want to DIY, renting a truck is a better option. The average cost to rent a mid-sized truck with a load capacity of 4,000 to 6,000 lbs ranges between $40 and $80 per day. Be sure to factor in additional charges for mileage, fuel, and insurance.
2. How to Set Up Utilities in Colorado?
Getting your utilities set up is a straightforward process in Colorado:
- Electricity and Gas: Xcel Energy serves most urban areas, while Black Hills Energy serves in the southeastern parts of Colorado. You can visit their websites to check availability in your area.
- Water and Sewer: These services in Colorado are primarily provided by the local municipality’s utility departments. Visit your city website to find out the appropriate service provider in your area.
- Internet and Cable: Xfinity and Quantum Fiber are among the largest cable and internet service providers in Colorado. They cost $20 to $80 per month on average.
3. How to Enroll Your Kids in Schools in Colorado?
Most schools in Colorado offer online registration:
- For Kindergarten: Your children must be 5 years old before October 1 for kindergarten, and 6 years old before August 1 for the first grade. You will need the child’s birth certificate, vaccination records, proof of residency, and a photo ID.
- For Older Kids: You will need all the above-mentioned documents, in addition to transcripts and a withdrawal form from their previous school. If your kids are high school athletes, check the eligibility first to avoid any complications.
- Transfers and Special Cases: These are usually managed by the local school districts in Colorado. You can visit their website or reach out to the school district office in your area for assistance.
4. How to Transfer Your Job or Find a New One?
- Work From Home: Colorado has the highest number of remote workers, with 37% of employees in the state working remotely. If you are a remote worker, just ask your employer about the state-specific tax and employment laws.
- Find a New Job: Connecting Colorado is a state-run job board for creating a resume, finding new job openings, and finding local workforce centers. You can also visit job portals like Indeed and LinkedIn to search and apply for jobs in your city.
5. How to Find the Perfect House?
The Colorado housing market favors buyers. 27.4% listed homes have seen a price drop, while inventory has increased by 22.8%. This gives buyers more negotiating power to secure better deals.
- In popular cities like Denver, Colorado Springs, and Aurora, the average rent is around $2,245. This depends on nearby amenities and the neighborhood you are moving to.
- If you plan to buy a home in a popular city, homes for sale in Denver cost around $546K. Cities like Lamar and Pueblo offer more affordable options, with median home prices of $178K and $292K respectively.
Should I Move to Colorado?
Yes, you should definitely move to Colorado. The state combines new opportunities, a good quality of life, and friendly communities. However, relocating to Colorado isn’t easy. It takes time, careful planning, and effort to find the perfect place to call your home.
With Houzeo, Colorado’s best home-buying website, buying a house in the Centennial State is simple. You can browse through the latest listings, save your favorites, schedule showings, and submit offers, all at your fingertips.
» NEED MORE CLARITY? Read these exclusive Houzeo reviews and learn why the platform is the best in America’s competitive housing market.
Data Sources
To help you make a smart move to Colorado, we analyzed key data points that impact relocation costs, lifestyle, and employment prospects. We’ve sourced reliable, up-to-date data across the following categories:
- Statistical Atlas: Major employers
- Zillow: Average rent, Median home price
- MoveBuddha: Estimated moving costs
- Thisoldhouse: DIY truck rental rates, Average cost of moving
By backing our insights with real numbers, we give you a clear picture of what it really takes to relocate to Colorado, long before the moving boxes are packed.
