Consider Adding These Colorado Cities to Your Moving List
Colorado is a state known for its stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and diverse climate. With five distinct regions offering a mix of history, charm, and adventure, Colorado has become a popular place to call home. The state’s population has been steadily growing, making it an attractive destination for those looking to relocate.
From the towering Rocky Mountains in the west to the high plains in the east, Colorado offers a range of natural beauty. With numerous mountain peaks rising above 14,000 feet and major rivers flowing through the state, there is no shortage of outdoor opportunities. The climate in Colorado is characterized by extremes, with large temperature swings between seasons and varying weather patterns across the state.
The majority of Colorado’s population resides in the Front Range Urban Corridor, which includes cities like Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs. Each city in Colorado has its own unique charm and amenities, making it difficult to choose the best place to live. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top cities in Colorado based on factors such as affordability, amenities, and quality of life.
Top Cities to Live in Colorado
- Fort Collins, CO
- Denver, CO
- Boulder, CO
- Wheat Ridge, CO
- Longmont, CO
- Colorado Springs, CO
- Englewood, CO
- Arvada, CO
- Loveland, CO
- Centennial, CO
1. Fort Collins, CO
Fort Collins is a vibrant city that offers a mix of history, education, and outdoor recreation. With a campus of Colorado State University, the city has a lively energy and a range of amenities. From the nearby Rocky Mountain National Park to the historic downtown area, Fort Collins has something for everyone.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of hiking trails, parks, and open spaces in and around Fort Collins. The city’s public transportation system and bike-friendly layout make it easy to get around and explore all that Fort Collins has to offer.
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2. Denver, CO
Denver, the capital of Colorado, is a city rich in history, culture, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re exploring the Old West attractions or enjoying the city’s sunny climate, Denver has something for everyone. With easy access to the Rocky Mountains and a network of parks and trails, outdoor enthusiasts will feel right at home in Denver.
The city’s public transportation system, including bus and light rail services, makes it easy to navigate Denver without a car. From skiing in the winter to hiking in the summer, Denver offers a wide range of outdoor experiences for residents and visitors alike.
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3. Boulder, CO
Known as one of the happiest and fittest cities in the nation, Boulder is a vibrant community with a strong focus on outdoor living and natural products. While housing prices in Boulder are higher than in other Colorado cities, the quality of life and access to outdoor activities make it a desirable place to live.
From historic downtown to the Flatirons, Boulder offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Residents can enjoy hiking, biking, and climbing in the nearby mountains, as well as exploring the city’s many parks, breweries, and restaurants.
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4. Wheat Ridge, CO
Wheat Ridge, a Denver suburb with a rich agricultural history, offers a mix of mountain views, outdoor recreation, and small-town charm. With easy access to parks, trails, and lakes, Wheat Ridge is a popular destination for those seeking a balance between city amenities and natural beauty.
The city’s green spaces, including the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt and Clear Creek Trail, provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking. Residents can also enjoy a variety of local businesses, restaurants, and breweries in the area.
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5. Longmont, CO
Located between Denver and Fort Collins, Longmont offers a mix of affordability, outdoor recreation, and community events. With a range of parks, trails, and open spaces, Longmont is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts to call home.
The city’s flat terrain and proximity to the mountains make it an ideal location for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. Residents can also enjoy community events like the Longmont Farmers Market and the Bluegrass & Brews Festival.
Longmont homes for sale | Longmont houses for rent | Longmont apartments for rent
6. Colorado Springs, CO
Colorado Springs, the second-largest city in Colorado, offers a mix of parks, history, and outdoor activities. With easy access to the mountains and a variety of cultural attractions, Colorado Springs is a great place to live for those seeking a balance between city amenities and natural beauty.
The city’s parks, trails, and outdoor attractions make it popular among outdoor enthusiasts. From the Manitou Incline to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Center, there are plenty of opportunities for residents to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
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7. Englewood, CO
Englewood, a Denver suburb with a rich history, offers a mix of small-town charm and modern amenities. With a variety of dining and entertainment options, as well as access to parks and green spaces, Englewood is a great place for residents to call home.
The city’s historic downtown area and CityCenter Englewood provide opportunities for residents to explore local businesses, restaurants, and events. With parks, golf courses, and country clubs in the area, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Englewood.
Englewood homes for sale | Englewood houses for rent | Englewood apartments for rent
8. Arvada, CO
Arvada, located north of Wheat Ridge, offers a mix of open spaces, golf courses, and easy access to the mountains. With breweries, parks, and trails throughout the city, Arvada is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Residents can enjoy hiking, biking, and camping in nearby parks like White Ranch Park and Eldorado Canyon State Park. The city’s grid layout and amenities along Arapahoe Road make it easy to navigate and explore all that Arvada has to offer.
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9. Loveland, CO
Loveland, nestled between Longmont and Fort Collins, offers a mix of affordability, community events, and outdoor activities. With lower housing prices than neighboring cities, Loveland is a great place for residents seeking a balance between cost of living and quality of life.
The city’s flat terrain and proximity to the mountains make it an ideal location for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. Community events like the Sweetheart Festival and Medieval Festival bring residents together to celebrate and enjoy the local culture.
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10. Centennial, CO
Centennial, a suburb of Denver, offers upscale living with high median prices for housing and rentals. The city’s spread-out layout and car-dependent lifestyle make it a popular choice for those seeking a quieter, suburban environment with access to city amenities.
With a focus on breweries, parks, and outdoor activities, Centennial offers a mix of urban and natural experiences. Residents can enjoy community events, local businesses, and easy access to Cherry Creek State Park for outdoor adventures.
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Methodology
Redfin’s Best Places to Live rankings consider factors like healthcare access, outdoor space, housing trends, employment statistics, income, and commute times to determine the overall quality of a metro area. Only metros with populations of 20,000 or more were included in our Colorado list. For more information on our methodology, click here.
Data as of April 2025. This article is for informational and educational purposes only.