WHY

colorado

10 REASONS
WHY TO LIVE

IN COLORADO

The state had a yearly growth rate of 1.85 percent in 2010, making it the second fastest-growing state in the U.S. It’s capital, Denver, is home to over 700,000 people and growing rapidly. Per World Population Review, it ranks 11th on the list of U.S. cities with the most significant addition of residents. This explosive growth is a testament to Colorado’s fantastic quality of life. The state’s stunning natural beauty, progressive policies and abundance of outdoor activities all make Colorado an irresistible place to live for the adventure-seeking crowd. Not sure whether Colorado is for you? Here are 10 reasons why moving to Colorado is a great idea.

  1. There are so many outdoor activities to enjoy

    Get ready to have fun! There’s no shortage of outdoor recreational activities and adventures to enjoy once you make Colorado your new home. In the wintertime, residents can take advantage of the many snowy trails and ski slopes. Colorado is home to some of the most popular and scenic skiing and snowboarding destinations in the world. In the summertime, residents can take part in everything from whitewater rafting, kayaking and fly fishing to horseback riding, hiking and camping.
  2. The state’s natural beauty is stunning

    Want to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world? Few places are as stunning as the State of Colorado. Home to a number of national parks and natural wonders, Colorado has everything any nature lover could ever want. Pristine lakes, majestic mountains, hidden caverns, spectacular waterfalls, and unusual rock formations all add to the state’s natural beauty.
  3. Residents live a healthy lifestyle

    Want to live a healthier lifestyle? Consider moving to Colorado. Thanks to the state’s endless number of outdoor activities, healthy food options and health-focused culture, Colorado is one of the healthiest states in the country. According to ucHealth, the state also has the lowest obesity rate in the country. America’s Health Rankings includes Colorado in its top 10 healthiest states list, citing an exceptionally low percentage of obese residents and children in poverty as well as a low prevalence of diabetes. 
  4. Colorado is a beer lover’s paradise

    Beer enthusiasts will truly find themselves in a beer lover’s paradise. According to Colorado.com, the state is home to the fourth most breweries per capita in the U.S. Throughout the state, newcomers will find over 400 established breweries, including everything from notable craft beer breweries to local microbreweries. Take a look at Colorado’s many breweries here. Residents can also take part in the state’s famous beer festivals, including the Colorado Brewers’ Festival and the popular Great American Beer Festival.
  5. There are fantastic cities to live in and visit

    Whether you’re seeking an urban playground or a rural mountain town, you’ll find it in Colorado. Several of the most popular cities include Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins, Aurora and Loveland. Not only do these cities have easy access to the great outdoors – and some of Colorado’s most popular attractions – but they are also vibrant hubs in their own right. With world-class museums, renowned restaurants, and a happening arts and entertainment scene, Colorado’s cities are buzzing with activity.
  6. Recreational use of marijuana is legal

    Marijuana fans will find Colorado’s lax laws regarding recreational marijuana use to be a major pro. In 2012, the State of Colorado became one of two states to first legalize marijuana for recreational purposes. Given that the state’s progressive policies paved the way for marijuana’s legalization in a number of other places, many users of the drug have jumped at the chance to move to Colorado.
  7. The sports culture is intense

    Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to love about Colorado’s many professional sports teams. Football fans will enjoy the cheering on the Denver Broncos at the giant Empower Field at Mile High; baseball fans will love seeing the Colorado Rockies play at downtown Denver’s Coors Field; and soccer fans will get a kick out of seeing the Colorado Rapids play at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. Other popular teams in Colorado include the Denver Nuggets and the Colorado Avalanche (called the “the Avs”).
  8. The state’s economy is one of the strongest in the country

    Colorado is home to one of the strongest state economies in the United States. Recently, WalletHub ranked Colorado as the fifth overall strongest economy. The state also came in third for “healthiest economy,” eighth for “innovation potential” and ninth for “economic activity.” The Colorado General Assembly points to the state’s many entrepreneurial residents and innovative industries as being the reason for its strength. Major industries include agriculture, tourism, software development, biochemistry, aerospace, farming and mining. 
  9. Residents live like they are on vacation

    With easy access to a number of ski resorts and vacation spots, it’s easy for residents to live as though they are on vacation year-round. Resort towns, such as Aspen, Breckinridge, Telluride and Vail, boast hundreds of ski slopes for the skiing enthusiasts (not to mention, a number of other outdoor activities, including snowshoeing, snowboarding hot-air ballooning and fishing). In addition to recreational activities, the resort towns offer plenty of cultural attractions, tasty restaurants, spas and boutique shopping to enjoy.
  10. Colorado is a tax-friendly state

    Last but not least, Colorado newcomers will find exceptionally low taxes compared to rates in other states. According to Smart Asset, the State of Colorado has “low property taxes and a flat income tax rate of 4.63 percent.” In addition, Colorado has the lowest sales tax of any state with a sales tax. Recently, the Denver Post noted that Colorado’s property tax bills are cheaper than those in other states. The article cites a tax survey from ATTOM Data Solution, which found that Colorado carries the “third-lowest effective property tax rate of any state, only.52 percent versus 1.16 percent nationally.”