Imagine waking up to the breathtaking Rocky Mountains or exploring vibrant urban centers brimming with culture and outdoor adventures. Colorado offers all this and more, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and affordable living.
As of June 2024, Colorado’s median home sale price has soared to $601,200, underscoring the importance of finding cities that offer affordable housing options amidst the state’s splendor.
Redfin has curated a list of the 12 most affordable places to live in Colorado, each boasting a median home sale price below the state average. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquility of mountain towns or the convenience of city life, these cities provide diverse opportunities for a fulfilling lifestyle.
1. Pueblo
- Median home price: $275,000
- Average sale price per square foot: $163
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,512
- Median household income: $42,902
- Nearest major metro: Colorado Springs (45 miles)
Pueblo offers affordable housing and a rich cultural scene with attractions like the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk and Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum, just a short drive from Colorado Springs.
2. Greeley
- Median home price: $436,479
- Average sale price per square foot: $185
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,200
- Median household income: $57,537
- Nearest major metro: Fort Collins (35 miles)
Located near Fort Collins, Greeley provides easy access to outdoor spaces such as Island Grove Regional Park and cultural gems like the Colorado Model Railroad Museum.
3. Colorado Springs
- Median home price: $455,000
- Average sale price per square foot: $221
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,227
- Median household income: $57,537
- Nearest major metro: Denver (70 miles)
Nestled against the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs boasts iconic attractions like the Garden of the Gods and the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Grand Junction
- Median home price: $465,000
- Average sale price per square foot: $266
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $775
- Median household income: $54,570
Grand Junction blends outdoor adventure with cultural experiences at places like the Colorado National Monument and the Museum of the West.
5. Aurora
- Median home price: $482,750
- Average sale price per square foot: $243
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,678
- Median household income: $57,537
- Nearest major metro: Denver (10 miles)
Just outside Denver, Aurora offers access to the Plains Conservation Center and the serene Aurora Reservoir, perfect for nature lovers.
6. Loveland
- Median home price: $501,000
- Average sale price per square foot: $228
- Median household income: $72,515
- Nearest major metro: Fort Collins (15 miles)
Known for its natural beauty, Loveland features outdoor gems like Lake Loveland and Devil’s Backbone Open Space, close to Fort Collins.
7. Thornton
- Median home price: $521,250
- Average sale price per square foot: $227
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,599
- Median household income: $80,732
- Nearest major metro: Denver (10 miles)
Thornton offers attractions such as Pelican Ponds Open Space and recreational options at Trail Winds Recreation Center, appealing to active residents.
8. Lakewood
- Median home price: $530,525
- Average sale price per square foot: $292
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,675
- Median household income: $71,233
- Nearest major metro: Denver (8 miles)
A Denver suburb, Lakewood boasts outdoor activities at Bear Creek Lake Park and cultural events at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, creating a vibrant community.
9. Commerce City
- Median home price: $533,000
- Average sale price per square foot: $212
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,732
- Median household income: $96,484
- Nearest major metro: Denver (7 miles)
Commerce City offers diverse outdoor experiences with attractions like Buffalo Run Golf Course and the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, close to Denver.
10. Westminster
- Median home price: $535,000
- Average sale price per square foot: $272
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,928
- Median household income: $76,378
- Nearest major metro: Denver (10 miles)
Westminster features outdoor activities at Standley Lake Regional Park & Wildlife Refuge and educational opportunities at the Butterfly Pavilion, ideal for families.
11. Longmont
- Median home price: $568,990
- Average sale price per square foot: $274
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,738
- Median household income: $96,484
- Nearest major metro: Denver (35 miles)
Longmont offers proximity to natural wonders like Rocky Mountain National Park and Golden Ponds Park, combined with a charming downtown and cultural venues.
12. Fort Collins
- Median home price: $580,000
- Average sale price per square foot: $255
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,644
- Median household income: $70,528
- Nearest major metro: Denver (65 miles)
With historic charm in Old Town and natural beauty at Riverbend Ponds Natural Area, Fort Collins provides a vibrant community for residents seeking outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
These affordable cities in Colorado not only offer budget-friendly housing options but also provide access to the state’s stunning landscapes and thriving communities. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or seeking a family-friendly environment, Colorado has a city that fits your lifestyle and budget.
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