Thinking about moving to Colorado Springs? This beautiful city at the foot of Pikes Peak offers breathtaking views, a thriving outdoor lifestyle, and a welcoming community. Moving to Colorado Springs means embracing fresh mountain air, scenic landscapes, and a relaxed lifestyle that still offers big-city amenities. Here’s everything you need to know about moving to Colorado Springs to help you make the best decision.
10 Things To Know Before Moving To Colorado Springs
Pet-Friendly Atmosphere
Colorado Springs is an incredibly pet-friendly city, making it an excellent place for animal lovers to settle down. With several dog parks, pet-friendly trails, and recreational areas spread throughout the city, there are plenty of opportunities for your furry friends to enjoy the outdoors. It's not uncommon to see residents taking their pets for strolls along scenic paths, and locals truly treat their animals like family. In fact, Colorado Springs often ranks as one of the top cities for pet spending, with residents willing to splurge to keep their pets happy and healthy.
Diverse Dining and Nightlife
Foodies and night owls will feel right at home in Colorado Springs, thanks to its bustling downtown area filled with various dining and entertainment options. From cozy cafes and bakeries to fine dining establishments and lively bars, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste buds. Many spots offer spectacular views of Pikes Peak, enhancing the dining experience even more. Additionally, the city caters well to dietary preferences, offering numerous vegan and vegetarian options. Whether you prefer a fancy dinner or a casual night out with friends, Colorado Springs has plenty to offer.
Outdoor Lifestyle and Fitness
Moving to Colorado Springs means embracing an active and outdoor-centric lifestyle. The city’s beautiful weather, scenic landscapes, and abundance of parks make it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, running, and even winter sports. The city is surrounded by stunning natural wonders, including Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods, which attract residents and tourists alike. Colorado Springs’ focus on fitness is also evident from its status as one of the healthiest cities in the U.S., with locals taking advantage of the fresh air and opportunities for adventure.
Laid-Back Business Casual Culture
Unlike the hustle and bustle of cities like New York or Los Angeles, Colorado Springs has a more laid-back lifestyle and a relaxed dress code. You’ll often find people dressed casually, even when heading to work, looking like they’re ready for a hike or some outdoor activity. While formal attire is still necessary for special events or job interviews, the overall work culture leans toward comfort and practicality. Many residents even keep a change of clothes on hand to quickly switch from business to casual. It’s a welcoming environment for those who prefer a more easygoing, stress-free lifestyle.
Rich History and Landmarks
Colorado Springs is rich in history and natural beauty, making it a fascinating place to live. The city boasts numerous historical sites and landmarks, with the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak being two of the most famous. The Garden of the Gods is a public park filled with magnificent sandstone formations and various hiking trails, while Pikes Peak, the highest summit of the Southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, offers spectacular views and adventurous trails. The area’s historical charm and natural wonders are part of what continues to draw people to the city.
Quality Education Options
Families considering a move to Colorado Springs will appreciate its high-quality educational options. The city is known for having some of the best schools in the region, with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and college preparation. In addition to top-ranked public schools, Colorado Springs is also home to respected colleges and universities such as the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak State College, and the United States Air Force Academy. With various educational institutions throughout the city, students of all ages have access to outstanding learning opportunities.
Affordable Housing Compared to Denver
One of the biggest reasons people are drawn to Colorado Springs is its relatively affordable housing market, especially when compared to Denver. While Denver’s high housing prices continue to soar, Colorado Springs offers a more budget-friendly option for families, young professionals, and retirees looking to settle down. Despite its proximity to Denver, which is only about an hour’s drive away, Colorado Springs provides a comfortable suburban lifestyle with lower costs of living. This affordability factor continues to make the city an attractive destination for newcomers.
Strong Community Feel
Despite being the second-largest city in Colorado, Colorado Springs retains a charming, small-town feel with a strong sense of community. Festivals, farmers' markets, art shows, and music events are commonly held, providing residents with plenty of opportunities to connect and socialize. This friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes it easy for newcomers to feel at home and get involved in local activities. If you’re looking for a place where you can build meaningful relationships and enjoy a vibrant social life, Colorado Springs won’t disappoint.
Olympic City USA
Sports enthusiasts will find Colorado Springs particularly appealing due to its reputation as “Olympic City USA.” The city is home to the U.S. Olympic Committee Headquarters and an Olympic Training Center that hosts athletes from various disciplines, ranging from judo to ice skating. Its high elevation and beautiful natural surroundings make it an ideal place for athletes to train, with many appreciating the rigorous conditions that prepare them for competitions. For those who enjoy sports or aspire to a healthy lifestyle, Colorado Springs provides a motivating environment to achieve fitness goals.
Beautiful Weather and Clean Air
One of the most attractive features of Colorado Springs is its wonderful weather and clean air. Residents enjoy mild temperatures and abundant sunshine throughout the year, making it easy to enjoy outdoor activities and maintain an active lifestyle. Additionally, Colorado Springs often ranks among the top cities in the U.S. for air quality, which contributes to its high quality of life. The combination of beautiful weather, breathtaking mountain views, and fresh air makes Colorado Springs a desirable place to live for those seeking a healthier, happier life.
Why You Should Consider Moving to Colorado Springs
Moving to Colorado Springs offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and city life. With stunning spots like Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods, nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts will feel right at home. Plus, it’s more affordable than Denver, making it popular among families and young professionals.
The city also boasts a high quality of life, excellent schools, and a laid-back lifestyle. Its welcoming community and strong job market, particularly in healthcare, education, and the military, make it a fantastic place to settle down.
What to Expect When Moving to Colorado Springs
Moving to Colorado Springs means enjoying mild weather, plenty of sunshine, and snowy winters perfect for outdoor activities. The city’s casual, outdoor-friendly vibe extends even to most workplaces, offering a relaxed lifestyle.
Despite its growth, Colorado Springs maintains a friendly, small-town feel with frequent local events, markets, and festivals. It's also a dog-friendly city, making it perfect for pet owners seeking a welcoming community.
Helpful Tips for Moving to Colorado Springs
Before moving to Colorado Springs, research neighborhoods to find your perfect fit. Historic areas like Old Colorado City offer charm, while newer suburbs provide modern amenities. Also, be prepared for the city’s elevation—it can take some time to adjust.
Make the most of Colorado Springs’ outdoor lifestyle by packing hiking gear and casual clothing. The community’s focus on health, wellness, and outdoor activities makes it a fantastic place for anyone looking for an active lifestyle.
Final Thoughts on Moving to Colorado Springs
Moving to Colorado Springs offers a unique lifestyle filled with outdoor beauty, friendly communities, and affordable living. Whether you're drawn by the natural landscapes, laid-back culture, or thriving local events, this city has something for everyone. If you’re considering moving to Colorado Springs, you’re likely to find it’s a place that quickly feels like home.
