Moving to Colorado Springs offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, outdoor adventure, and urban convenience. Nestled at the base of Pikes Peak, this vibrant city attracts newcomers with its mix of natural surroundings, economic opportunity, and family-friendly neighborhoods. Whether you’re considering relocating to the area for work, retirement, or a change of pace, here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision.
Why People Are Relocating to Colorado Springs
There are many reasons newcomers are drawn to living in Colorado Springs. The city offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other Colorado cities, along with an exceptional quality of life. With more than 300 days of sunshine per year, low humidity, and four true seasons, the weather alone is a big draw.
Families appreciate the safe neighborhoods and highly-rated public and private schools, while professionals are drawn to the growing job market in aerospace, defense, healthcare, and tech. The city is also a top destination for military families due to the presence of Fort Carson, Peterson Space Force Base, and the U.S. Air Force Academy.
Lifestyle and Things to Do
Living in Colorado Springs means never running out of things to do. Whether you’re hiking through Garden of the Gods, biking along Palmer Park’s rugged trails, or enjoying paddleboarding on Prospect Lake, the city is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. The surrounding mountains offer skiing, rock climbing, and scenic drives, while downtown hosts festivals, farmers markets, art walks, and more.
Families love the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, while nightlife seekers enjoy downtown’s expanding bar, brewery, and live music scene. Newcomers can also take in breathtaking views during the annual Labor Day Lift Off hot air balloon festival, held over Prospect Lake.
Neighborhoods and Housing
One of the top considerations when moving to Colorado Springs is choosing the right neighborhood. Families often gravitate toward Briargate or Rockrimmon for top-ranked schools and suburban comfort. Young professionals love the culture and walkability of Old Colorado City or the up-and-coming urban living in Downtown and the Ivywild neighborhood. Retirees enjoy the quiet streets and open space in Broadmoor or Flying Horse.
The city offers a range of housing options, from modern townhomes to single-family homes with mountain views. Whether you’re buying or renting, the area has something for everyone. With housing costs generally lower than Denver, it’s a smart alternative for many looking to relocate within the state.
Education and Schools
Families relocating to the area are often drawn by its strong educational options. The city is served by several school districts, including Academy School District 20, Cheyenne Mountain School District 12, and Colorado Springs School District 11. There are also charter and private school options, such as The Vanguard School and Colorado Springs Christian Schools. Higher education institutions include the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) and Pikes Peak State College.
Jobs and the Economy
The job market is another major reason people are moving to Colorado Springs. Major employers include Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and UCHealth. The city’s economy is anchored by aerospace and defense, but also boasts growing opportunities in healthcare, tourism, and tech startups. For newcomers looking to grow their careers, the city provides both job stability and future-forward opportunities.
Remote work is also popular here, thanks to strong internet infrastructure and home designs that often include bonus rooms or home office space. For entrepreneurs, the city offers a supportive small business environment and several business incubators.
Getting Around
Commuting is relatively easy compared to larger metro areas. Most residents rely on personal vehicles, but the city also offers Mountain Metro Transit for local bus routes. Biking is popular, and many neighborhoods are becoming more pedestrian- and bike-friendly. Interstate 25 runs through the city and provides a direct route to Denver, which is about 70 miles north.
Colorado Springs Airport makes regional and national travel simple, offering direct flights to major cities. Denver International Airport is also within a 90-minute drive.
Healthcare Access
Living in Colorado Springs provides excellent access to healthcare. Major providers include UCHealth Memorial Hospital, Penrose-St. Francis Health Services, and Children’s Hospital Colorado. The city also offers a wide range of specialty care providers and urgent care centers for newcomers settling in the area.
Final Thoughts on Relocating to Colorado Springs
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a growing family, or a remote worker seeking more space, relocating to Colorado Springs offers something for everyone. With a booming job market, top-tier schools, abundant recreation, and breathtaking views of the Rockies, it’s no wonder the city continues to attract newcomers from around the country.
If you’re thinking about moving to Colorado Springs, there’s no better time to discover everything this vibrant and welcoming city has to offer.
