Cheapest Places to Live in Colorado

Access hyperlocal data to help you make a confident and informed decision.

Colorado, known for its majestic Rocky Mountains, vibrant cities, and extensive outdoor recreational opportunities, is a state that appeals to both nature enthusiasts and urban dwellers. The state features landmarks such as Rocky Mountain National Park, the Garden of the Gods, and Pikes Peak. The state’s economy is robust and diverse, supported by industries such as technology, aerospace, agriculture, and tourism. Colorado's tax structure, which includes moderate income and property taxes, contributes to its overall affordability. Despite the state’s growing popularity and the recent rise in housing prices and living costs, there are still several areas in Colorado where the cost of living is lower. These regions provide a lower cost of living while maintaining access to Colorado's natural beauty and amenities. Recent inflation and increases in food costs have affected affordability, making it important to identify regions within the state where living expenses are more manageable.

Affordable living in Colorado can often be found in smaller towns and less densely populated areas, where housing and daily expenses are lower. The significance of affordability in livability cannot be underestimated, as it ensures residents can enjoy a high quality of life without financial hardship. Factors leading to affordable living include local economic conditions, housing availability, and efficient public services. AI-assisted city-level cost of living estimates, supported by U.S. Census housing data and regional economic modeling, provide a useful way to pinpoint these affordable areas and help residents make informed decisions about where to live in Colorado. By understanding where these affordable regions are located, residents can better navigate the state's economic landscape and fully enjoy the diverse opportunities and natural beauty that Colorado offers without compromising their financial health. Identifying the cheapest places to live in Colorado enables residents to make the most of their surroundings while maintaining financial stability.

La Junta Population: 7,166 20% cheaper than Colorado average

Med. Home Value: $171,961 Med. Rent: $944 Med. Household Inc.: $73,303

With a cost of living index that is 20% cheaper than the state average, La Junta is the cheapest place to live in Colorado. This area offers residents a remarkable blend of relatively low housing costs, budget-friendly grocery prices, affordable utilities, and economical health care services, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to stretch their dollars further. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life, La Junta provides an inviting and cost-effective environment to call home.

Lamar Population: 7,804 18% cheaper than Colorado average

Med. Home Value: $195,044 Med. Rent: $1,118 Med. Household Inc.: $62,433

The second most affordable city in Colorado is Lamar and stands out for its cost-effective lifestyle. With an overall cost of living that is 18% cheaper than the Colorado average, overall goods and services, housing, utilities, transportation and health care costs fall within a reasonable range. Median household income levels are steady and come in at , which helps to increase the purchasing power of the local residents.

Federal Heights Population: 14,024 18% cheaper than Colorado average

Med. Home Value: $127,420 Med. Rent: $1,997 Med. Household Inc.: $73,880

Federal Heights lands in the #3 spot for the cheapest cities to live in Colorado, with a cost of living that is 18% cheaper than the state average. With home prices averaging and rental rates coming in around , it helps that household income levels average about , which assists with paying the mortgage or your monthly rent. Its robust public school system and accessible health care further enhance its appeal, making it a great place to settle down. The strong community spirit and ample recreational opportunities add to its charm.

Cortez Population: 9,056 17% cheaper than Colorado average

Med. Home Value: $295,416 Med. Rent: $1,293 Med. Household Inc.: $62,172

The cost of everyday grocery items, goods & services and of course housing, can have a significant impact on the overall cost of living in any area. Cortez offers a picturesque and affordable living environment, with a cost of living that is 17% cheaper than the state average. Everyday items like ground beef , eggs , coffee and pizza are all fairly reasonable compared to most other cities, which helps reduce those grocery bills. Home prices are also fairly affordable (compared to the state average), coming in at around .

Alamosa Population: 9,594 16% cheaper than Colorado average

Med. Home Value: $271,604 Med. Rent: $1,042 Med. Household Inc.: $57,091

For those wanting to live well on a budget, Alamosa is ideal, with a cost of living that is 16% cheaper than the state average. Reasonable housing prices (compared to the Colorado average) of and rental prices of are paired with economical goods and services and a range of free or low-cost recreational activities. The city's proactive economic development initiatives also ensure a steady stream of job opportunities, making it a smart choice for those prioritizing financial ease.

Trinidad Population: 8,339 15% cheaper than Colorado average

Med. Home Value: $258,310 Med. Rent: $1,118 Med. Household Inc.: $58,795

Trinidad comes in at #6 on our list of the cheapest cities in Colorado and is a haven for those seeking affordability without sacrificing convenience. The city is known for its discount shopping centers and budget-friendly dining options and has a cost of living that is 15% cheaper than Colorado. The city's local markets provide fresh produce and other groceries at reduced prices, while parks and community centers offer free entertainment and leisure. This city is perfect for enjoying a high quality of life at a low cost.

Pueblo Population: 114,377 14% cheaper than Colorado average

Med. Home Value: $262,409 Med. Rent: $1,236 Med. Household Inc.: $63,966

With its cost-effective lifestyle, Pueblo is an attractive destination for those looking to live affordably. The city boasts suitable housing costs, affordable healthcare, and a variety of budget-friendly dining options. The community is welcoming and vibrant, providing residents with a rich social life at a fraction of the cost. Median income levels come in at , which provides financial stability, purchasing power and increases the quality of life in the city.

Sterling Population: 14,909 14% cheaper than Colorado average

Med. Home Value: $251,695 Med. Rent: $1,238 Med. Household Inc.: $61,515

A lower cost of living allows individuals to manage their expenses more effectively, reducing the risk of financial stress and debt. When essential costs such as housing, food, transportation, and healthcare are more affordable, people can achieve greater financial stability and resilience. Sterling fits that mold and has a cost of living that is 14% cheaper than Colorado.

Clifton Population: 21,554 11% cheaper than Colorado average

Med. Home Value: $291,843 Med. Rent: $1,446 Med. Household Inc.: $67,810

Lower living costs can lead to a higher quality of life by making it easier for people to afford comfortable housing, nutritious food, and access to healthcare. It can also provide opportunities for better education, recreational activities, and community engagement, contributing to overall well-being. Clifton is one of the most affordable cities in Colorado, and has a cost of living that is 11% cheaper than the state average.

Cañon City Population: 16,810 11% cheaper than Colorado average

Med. Home Value: $341,954 Med. Rent: $1,183 Med. Household Inc.: $75,562

With a cost of living that is 11% cheaper than Colorado, Cañon City comes in at #10 on our list of the cheapest places to live in Colorado. Financial stress is a significant factor affecting mental and physical health. By lowering the cost of living, individuals can experience reduced anxiety related to meeting monthly expenses, thereby improving overall health and well-being. The ability to afford basic necessities without constant worry contributes to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Full list of the cheapest places in Colorado

Rank	Location	Population	COL Index	Med. Home Value	Med. Household Inc.
1	La Junta	7,166	92	$171,961	$73,303
2	Lamar	7,804	94	$195,044	$62,433
3	Federal Heights	14,024	95	$127,420	$73,880
4	Cortez	9,056	95	$295,416	$62,172
5	Alamosa	9,594	97	$271,604	$57,091
6	Trinidad	8,339	98	$258,310	$58,795
7	Pueblo	114,377	99	$262,409	$63,966
8	Sterling	14,909	99	$251,695	$61,515
9	Clifton	21,554	103	$291,843	$67,810
10	Cañon City	16,810	103	$341,954	$75,562
11	Craig	9,268	103	$316,405	$74,403
12	Delta	9,205	103	$331,354	$59,742
13	Brush	5,549	105	$316,727	$84,648
14	Fort Morgan	11,666	105	$330,577	$71,307
15	Stratmoor	6,126	106	$348,333	$75,218
16	Battlement Mesa	5,041	107	$381,907	$96,987
17	Pueblo West	33,798	110	$419,493	$108,832
18	Derby	9,365	111	$378,962	$94,846
19	Montrose	19,970	111	$423,095	$78,700
20	Fruitvale	8,613	111	$377,268	$94,613
21	Orchard Mesa	6,728	111	$399,123	$92,615
22	Grand Junction	64,338	112	$448,349	$81,389
23	Cimarron Hills	19,384	113	$416,846	$106,154
24	Gunnison	6,866	114	$471,493	$66,771
25	Security-Widefield	39,796	115	$436,686	$107,330
26	Evans	22,678	115	$432,317	$95,906
27	Fruita	14,366	115	$450,936	$75,268
28	Lochbuie	7,003	116	$490,501	$103,584
29	Fort Lupton	8,787	116	$520,988	$97,074
30	Sheridan	6,195	116	$474,515	$69,623
31	Rifle	10,154	117	$496,905	$97,116
32	Greeley	110,935	117	$487,632	$86,987
33	Welby	15,922	117	$446,435	$98,831
34	Fountain	31,205	118	$470,600	$99,641
35	Glendale	5,325	119	$457,380	$91,956
36	Colorado Springs	481,855	121	$525,559	$100,946
37	Milliken	8,053	121	$566,156	$101,895
38	Eaton	5,858	122	$575,810	$127,015
39	Sherrelwood	19,531	123	$546,734	$96,273
40	Dacono	6,316	123	$599,265	$109,369
41	Mead	5,085	124	$671,660	$139,635
42	West Pleasant View	5,559	124	$546,185	$103,661
43	Berkley	11,591	124	$575,004	$103,889
44	Salida	5,688	124	$607,046	$74,616
45	Northglenn	40,627	125	$603,033	$106,911
46	Shaw Heights	6,165	125	$577,500	$109,587
47	Brighton	39,406	126	$615,274	$109,316
48	Commerce City	57,428	126	$597,444	$123,627
49	Aurora	393,102	126	$567,886	$100,255
50	Dove Valley	5,063	127	$594,740	$100,494

Methodology

To formulate the list of the cheapest places to live in Colorado, a city-level cost of living model was used with a national average baseline of 100. This framework is designed to provide a practical comparison of how far your dollar may go across different urban areas. Housing estimates incorporate the latest available U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are generated using AI-assisted economic models based on expected everyday expenses, regional pricing trends, climate, transportation patterns, and local economic conditions. The overall index is weighted across key spending categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%).

Map of Cost of Living by State

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The map above is a great way to help you discover the most affordable states across the U.S. By highlighting states with the lowest cost of living, this map provides an in-depth look at where you can get the most value for your money. By visually representing this data, the map allows users to easily compare different regions and make informed decisions about potential relocations or investments. Additionally, it provides valuable insights into the economic conditions and lifestyle factors that influence these cost of living statistics. Whether you're planning a move, considering a new job, or simply curious about the economic landscape, this map is a useful resource for understanding and navigating the financial implications of living in different states.