Colorado is a state with a little bit of everything: outdoor activities, clean air, countless local breweries and the hub to many national businesses. If you’re planning a move, but you’re not exactly sure what to expect then here are six things you need to know before moving to Colorado.
High Average Income
The current minimum wage is a whopping $11.10! Just when you thought it couldn’t get higher, the minimum wage will be rising to $12 in January. This wage allows people to work a clock-in clock-out lifestyle and still be able to make ends meet comfortably.
Active and Healthy lifestyle
The availability for day trips of hiking, skiing and biking are endless! Rocky Mountain National Park is just one of many activity hubs in Colorado. With over 260,000 acres of land to explore and take in, there is sure to be something that takes your breath away. Mesa Verde is another national park that Colorado is home to. It is located in the southwestern part of the state. In Mesa Verde, visitors are able to explore historical viewpoints such as rock carvings and Native American cultural aspects. All of these beautiful sights are sure to be a motivating factor to get outdoors and get moving, just like the rest of us!
In addition, Vail, Glenwood Springs, and Black Canyon National Park and countless other mountain towns are just the beginning of your memorable adventures. You are just about an hour away (or less) from your next outdoor workout.
A Full Four Seasons
Unlike most states, Colorado gets all four beautiful seasons. There is a snowy winter, a blooming spring, hot summer and a cozy fall. Each season has its own specialty.
The Colorado winters create the most picturesque mountain views, and the snow drapes over the pine trees like a decoration. They are perfect for a weekend cabin trip! Springtime showers fill the sky with clouds and calming rainstorms. The Colorado summers are perfect for lake adventures and family camping trips. But, let’s also not forget the fall: with the enormous trees changing colors, it is the perfect transition from summer.
It is safe to say that you will experience a little bit of every kind of weather. For more information on Colorado weather, read this post!
High Cost of Living
Although Colorado’s minimum wage is at an all-time high, so is the cost of living. Since 2000, Denver alone has seen an average inflation rate of 2.33% per year. This essentially means that in the year 2000 if you bought an item for $20, and in the year 2018 that same item, it would cost you about $30. Though there are costly living prices, especially in the more established areas of Colorado, you are definitely getting what you are paying for!
High Elevation
Another thing to take note of when moving to Colorado is the elevation. They don’t call Denver the Mile High City for nothing! The elevation adjustment for all over the state can be difficult for children and adults with asthma or any respiratory problems. But fear not, after a few months, you will feel back to normal. It just takes some getting used to!
Cold Weather Adjustment
This last one may be given, but if you’re moving from the West Coast or even Southern states, freezing temperatures and snowfall can be a bit of a rude awakening. Some things to expect from Colorados colder months are hail damage, higher house and car repairs for snow and cold weather damage. Freezing pipes and higher heat expenses to heat homes in the winter are also major things to take into consideration. These expenses are just a minor part of the winter season, but definitely something to be aware of.
All of Colorado’s unique and pure attributes are the reason why it is home to over five million people. Contact Windermere Real Estate for your next Colorado living experience!
