The Hidden Challenges of Living in Colorado Springs: A Realistic Perspective
Colorado Springs is often celebrated for its stunning mountain views, thriving job market, and abundant outdoor activities. However, there’s another side to this picturesque city that isn’t as widely discussed. In this article, we’ll explore some of the less glamorous aspects of living in Colorado Springs that are causing some residents to reconsider their stay.
Political Landscape: A City in Transition
The political environment in Colorado Springs is unique and may not meet everyone’s expectations. While Colorado is predominantly a blue state, Colorado Springs has historically leaned red. However, as the city grows and evolves, it’s becoming increasingly purple, blending both conservative and progressive ideals.
If you’re looking for a city that leans heavily one way or the other politically, you might be surprised. Colorado Springs is in a period of transition, which might not align with everyone’s preferences. Understanding the political climate is crucial for those considering a move, especially if political alignment is a significant factor for them.
Challenges with Altitude: The Highs and Lows
Another significant challenge is the altitude. Colorado Springs sits at a high elevation, bringing a semi-arid climate and thinner air. This can make breathing more difficult and staying hydrated a necessity, which can be a shock to newcomers not used to such conditions.
The altitude here can really impact your health. It’s something to consider if you’re thinking about moving to Colorado Springs. For those coming from lower elevations, the adjustment can be tough and is often underestimated until they experience it firsthand.
Cost of Living: The Financial Reality
The cost of living in Colorado Springs has become a significant deterrent for potential residents. Over the past five years, housing prices have surged significantly. The average sales price now sits at $563,000, with a median sales price of $490,000. Coupled with rising mortgage rates and insurance premiums increasing by about 30% due to natural risks like fire and hail, the financial burden of living in Colorado Springs can be substantial.
Housing has gotten really expensive here, and it’s not just about the numbers. The dream of homeownership is becoming less attainable for many. This spike in costs is pushing some residents to seek more affordable living situations elsewhere, despite the city’s many appealing attributes.
Population Growth and Infrastructure: A Strain on Resources
Since 1991, Colorado Springs has experienced rapid population growth, particularly over the last decade. This expansion hasoutpaced the development of essential infrastructure. El Paso County’s population now exceeds that of Denve
r County, but the city’s infrastructure, especially water and transportation systems, struggles to support the growing population.
Our infrastructure is lagging behind our population growth. We need to be more proactive rather than reactive. The only major north-south thoroughfare, I-25, often experiences significant congestion, and the city’s water resources are under strain. This lack of foresight in urban planning has led to reactive measures, where the city is forced to retrofit roads and other infrastructure that should have been adequately planned from the beginning. This not only causes inconvenience but also hampers the overall quality of life for residents.
Resources and Relocation Assistance: Making an Informed Move
Despite these challenges, Colorado Springs remains a desirable location for many. To assist potential new residents, resources like relocation guides are available. These guides provide valuable information on various neighborhoods, helping newcomers make informed decisions about where to live based on their needs and preferences.
If you’re considering moving here, check out our relocation guide. It’s packed with information to help you find the right spot in Colorado Springs that meets your needs. Additionally, for those who want a deeper dive into what different parts of the city offer, neighborhood-specific videos are available. These videos are designed to give a real sense of what living in different areas of Colorado Springs is like, which is particularly useful for those shopping for a new home from a distance.
Conclusion: The Realities of Life in Colorado Springs
While Colorado Springs boasts many attractions and a high quality of life, it’s important for potential movers to be aware of the less-discussed aspects such as political shifts, high altitude challenges, rising costs, and infrastructural lag. Being informed about these factors can help in making a well-rounded decision about relocating to this beautiful city.
For more information or to reach out for personalized advice, visit My Front Range Living, where you can explore additional resources about living in Colorado Springs, including great restaurants, hiking spots, and other local attractions.
Yes, today’s discussion might seem a bit downbeat, but let’s be real—we love Colorado Springs and everything it has to offer. Thanks for stopping by, and we hope to see you soon!
About The Author
The team at My Front Range Living are a group of full time real estate experts serving Colorado Springs, El Paso County and the surrounding areas. Their knowledge of the local community and experience in the industry provide you incomparable value when buying or selling a home. With several years of experience in helping out of state buyers and sellers, they are the go-to team when it comes to relocating and helping Colorado feel like home.
Even if you’re looking for an agent in another city or state, the My Front Range Living team has a network of experts that can connect you with the right professional.
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