13 Reasons You Might Think Twice About Moving to Colorado Springs (But We Still Love It Here!)
So You’re Thinking About Moving to Colorado Springs…
First of all—we get it. Colorado Springs is gorgeous. We’ve got those Rocky Mountain views, sunny days for miles, and some of the best outdoor adventures around. We absolutely love living here.
But (and this is a big but)… it’s not all mountain views and blue skies.
There are a few things about life in Colorado Springs that might just make you pause before packing up the U-Haul. In fact, these are the same things we tell folks who reach out to us every day asking, “Is Colorado Springs right for me?”
So let’s get into it: 13 reasons why Colorado Springs might not be the perfect fit for everyone.
1. The Altitude is No Joke
Colorado Springs elevation: at least 6,000 feet above sea level—higher if you’re up toward the north side or the foothills.
If you’re coming from sea level, prepare for some serious huffing and puffing just walking across a parking lot or heading upstairs. The altitude hits hard.
Pro tip: Stay hydrated (like, really hydrated). Make friends with your water bottle because dehydration is one of the quickest ways the altitude will sneak up on you.
2. Super Dry Climate = Bring Lotion and Chapstick
That elevation comes with another surprise: the air here is dry. We’re talking dry skin, bloody noses, and cracked lips dry.
If your moisturizer game isn’t strong, it’s time to level up. And don’t be surprised if a humidifier becomes your new best friend.
3. The Weather Has Mood Swings
If you’re looking for predictable weather… maybe keep looking.
It’s not uncommon to have a 70-degree afternoon followed by snowflakes in the evening. Add in the fact that we live in “Hail Alley,” and suddenly having a garage for your car feels less like a luxury and more like a necessity.
Oh—and the wind. Yep, we’ve got that too. So much so that your homeowners insurance might have a wind and hail deductible. Secure your trash cans (and small children) accordingly.
4. Home Affordability Might Surprise You
Let’s talk about cost of living in Colorado Springs.
While it’s generally more affordable than Denver or Boulder, the truth is that housing prices here have gone up significantly over the past few years. If you’re moving from the Midwest or the South, you might feel a little sticker shock.
Do your research, check out the current median home prices, and compare them to what you’re used to. Check out our Youtube Channel for our monthly market update.
5. Public Transportation is… Well, Lacking
If you’re used to big-city public transit, brace yourself: we don’t have much of that here.
Sure, we have a bus system—and there are some rentable scooters downtown—but for the most part, Colorado Springs is a car town. If you’re planning to get around regularly, you’re going to need your own wheels.
6. Wildlife: Beautiful (But Sometimes Problematic)
The wildlife here? Stunning.
Picture sipping your coffee while deer wander through your yard. Sounds dreamy, right?
Until they start eating your landscaping.
Oh—and did we mention bears? Yep. And the occasional mountain lion if you’re near the foothills. Rattlesnakes on the trails? Also a thing. They’re not out to get you, but you do need to stay aware, especially if you have pets.
7. Baking at Altitude is an Art Form
Here’s a curveball most people don’t think about: baking at 6,000+ feet is a whole different game.
Breads rise too fast, cakes collapse, and cookies can turn into hockey pucks if you don’t adjust your recipes. If you’re a home baker, prepare for a learning curve.
8. Allergies Hit Hard
Between the dry air and local flora like cottonwoods and pines, spring and early summer allergies here are no joke.
Stock up on allergy meds, and maybe invest in an air purifier if you’re especially sensitive.
9. Road Construction Never Seems to End
If there’s one thing you can count on here (besides those beautiful mountain views), it’s road construction.
Thanks to aging infrastructure and a growing population, construction seems to be happening everywhere—bridges, major streets, side roads, you name it. And just when one project wraps up… another one starts.
10. Overwhelmed Infrastructure and Traffic
Speaking of growth, Colorado Springs has exploded in population since the 90s—and the roads haven’t really caught up.
Limited north-south routes (basically Powers, Academy, and I-25) and even fewer east-west options make for some frustrating traffic, especially during rush hour.
11. Homeless Population is Growing
Like many cities across the country, Colorado Springs faces challenges with homelessness. There’s no easy solution, but it’s something to be aware of—especially in certain parks, downtown, and parts of the south side of the city.
12. Crime Rates Are Rising with Population Growth
More people usually means more crime, and Colorado Springs is no exception. While many neighborhoods remain very safe, it’s smart to do your research.
(Consider linking here to the [Colorado Springs Police Department crime map] or your own [guide to safest neighborhoods in Colorado Springs].)
13. Limited Nightlife Scene
If your idea of a good night out starts at 11 PM… well, you might be disappointed.
While we’ve got plenty of breweries, cocktail bars, and distilleries (which we love!), most places are winding down by 9 or 10 PM. The club scene here is… minimal at best.
But if early morning hikes and outdoor adventures sound like your vibe? You’re in the right place.
So… Should You Move to Colorado Springs?
Look, no place is perfect. And despite all these quirks, we still love it here. We just believe that the best decisions come from having all the info upfront.
If you’re thinking about making the move to Colorado Springs—or just want to chat about whether it’s the right fit for you—[reach out to our team here]. We’d love to answer your questions and help you navigate the process.
After all, our passion is helping people make Colorado Springs feel like home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Colorado Springs
Is Colorado Springs more affordable than Denver?
Yes! While home prices have climbed, Colorado Springs is generally still more affordable than Denver or Boulder. But depending on where you’re moving from, you might still experience some sticker shock.
What is the weather like in Colorado Springs year-round?
The weather is unpredictable—sunny and warm one moment, snowing the next. Expect quick temperature swings, hailstorms, and plenty of windy days.
Are there dangerous animals in Colorado Springs?
Most wildlife here keeps to themselves, but yes, we have deer (who love your landscaping), bears, mountain lions, and rattlesnakes, especially near foothills and hiking trails.
Is Colorado Springs safe?
Many areas are very safe, but like any growing city, there are some neighborhoods with higher crime rates. Always do your research before choosing a neighborhood.
How bad is traffic in Colorado Springs?
Traffic has gotten noticeably worse here over the last several years, and honestly, it’s one of the biggest frustrations we hear from folks thinking about moving to Colorado Springs. The city has experienced rapid population growth since the 1990s, but unfortunately, our road infrastructure hasn’t quite kept up with that pace.
So if you’re thinking about moving to Colorado Springs and commuting is going to be a factor for you, we recommend looking closely at where you plan to live versus where you’ll be working or spending most of your time. Sometimes living just a little closer to work—or finding a neighborhood with easier access to the main roads—can save you a whole lot of daily headache.
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. Click Here to book a consultation with us.
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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