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Considering relocating to Colorado and seeking more space, better value, and a slower pace than Denver? You’re not alone. Newcomers are opting for suburban and exurban areas outside of Denver, trading city-center apartments for mountain views, highly rated schools, and communities that offer ample space to spread out. Whether you’re looking for family-friendliness or a gateway to the outdoors, these top 10 affordable cities in Colorado deliver. Here’s what you need to know about home prices, schools, and lifestyle before you move.

Fort Collins, Colorado

Fort Collins consistently ranks among the best places to live in the U.S. With a vibrant downtown, bike-friendly streets, and access to the Rocky Mountains, it’s ideal for families and professionals alike. It’s also home to Colorado State University, which helps fuel a strong economy and culture. While Fort Collins continues to grow, it remains one of the most affordable cities in Colorado.

Best For: Families, remote workers, outdoor lovers, university town lifestyle

  • Median Home Price: $575,000
  • Average School Rating: 8.5/10
  • Commute to Denver: 1 hour 10 minutes

Loveland, Colorado

Just south of Fort Collins, Loveland is known for its art scene, lake access, and family-focused neighborhoods. With lower home prices than Boulder or Denver, Loveland offers a great quality of life with easy access to I-25 and Northern Colorado amenities.

Best For: First-time buyers, young families, creatives

  • Median Home Price: $500,000
  • Average School Rating: 7.8/10
  • Commute to Denver: 60 minutes

Windsor, Colorado

One of the fastest-growing and affordable cities in Colorado, Windsor offers new construction homes, top-rated schools, and a strong small-town feel. Its lakes, golf courses, and newer parks make it appealing for families who want modern suburban living with a rural twist.

Best For: Families seeking new builds, excellent schools, and low crime

  • Median Home Price: $560,000
  • Average School Rating: 8.2/10
  • Commute to Denver: 75 minutes

Longmont, Colorado

A popular alternative to Boulder, Longmont has a vibrant tech presence, thanks to companies like Seagate and satellite offices for Google and Apple. It’s known for its breweries, historic downtown, and excellent trail systems.

Best For: Tech professionals, commuters, urban-meets-outdoors lifestyle

  • Median Home Price: $525,000
  • Average School Rating: 7.9/10
  • Commute to Denver: 45 minutes

Castle Rock, Colorado

Located between Denver and Colorado Springs, Castle Rock offers upscale housing, outlet shopping, and mountain views. It’s a top choice for families working in either city who want space and newer schools.

Best For: Commuting families, outdoor adventurers, new construction buyer

  • Median Home Price: $625,000
  • Average School Rating: 8.1/10
  • Commute to Denver Tech Center: 35 minutes

Monument, Colorado

Monument delivers a peaceful, rural lifestyle with quick access to city jobs. With Pikes Peak views and strong schools in the Lewis-Palmer district, it’s ideal for families seeking top education without the city stress.

Best For: School-focused families, military transfers, scenic living

  • Median Home Price: $650,000
  • Average School Rating: 8.3/10
  • Commute to Colorado Springs: 20 minutes
  • Commute to Denver Tech Center: 90 minutes

Erie, Colorado

Located between Boulder and Broomfield, Erie is exploding with new family neighborhoods, rec centers, and great schools. Though more expensive than some, its master-planned feel and small-town vibe appeal to families wanting more from suburbia.

Best For: Growing families, dual Boulder-Denver commuters

  • Median Home Price: $675,000
  • Average School Rating: 8.4/10
  • Commute to Boulder: 20 minutes

Berthoud, Colorado

Tucked between Loveland and Longmont, Berthoud maintains its rural roots with wide open spaces, historic architecture, and a newer school system gaining high marks. You’ll find larger lots and small-town appeal here.

Best For: Rural living, large properties, families leaving city density

  • Median Home Price: $510,000
  • Average School Rating: 7.6/10
  • Commute to Fort Collins: 35 minutes
  • Commute to Denver: 60 minutes

Johnstown, Colorado

Johnstown is a growing commuter town offering affordability, newer construction, and access to Northern Colorado jobs. It’s one of the few areas where median home prices remain under $500K—a major draw in 2025. It is considered one of the most affordable cities in Colorado within an hour from Denver.

Best For: Budget-conscious buyers, first-time homeowners, hybrid workers

  • Median Home Price: $495,000
  • Average School Rating: 7.7/10
  • Commute to Denver: 1 hour

If you are planning a move to Colorado, and Denver is not for you, you’ll find that Northern and Southern Colorado offer some of the best small towns in Colorado for relocation. These top 10 affordable cities in Colorado offer just what you would expect when moving to the Centennial State. So, keep your mind open, and know where to live outside of Denver.

Check out the Best Suburban Cities in Denver

Exploring Northern Colorado

Welcome to Denver and Colorado

Discover Aurora, Colorado

Top Neighborhoods for Families in Denver

Planning to Relocate?

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