1. First steps before moving to Colorado
Finding a job
Colorado’s allure as a destination for employment is intricately tied to the breathtaking natural landscapes that envelop residents. This unique feature often prompts individuals to relish refreshing walks during their work breaks, embracing the picturesque surroundings. Colorado boasts an illustrious reputation as it has maintained one of the most robust and steady job markets since the mid-1990s.
Within this flourishing job market, certain professions remain particularly sought after. Registered nurses, customer service representatives, accountants, auditors, and construction workers find themselves in high demand. The availability of such positions and the chance to revel in Colorado’s stunning scenery make it a compelling choice for those seeking both career opportunities and a deep connection with nature.
Getting there
Find a reliable moving company, truck rental or moving container
For your move to Colorado, you will need to hire a reliable moving company or take on the move yourself. To find the best moving company in Colorado, look for good reviews, a professional-looking website, and years of experience.
Planning a move to Colorado? Take a look at our selection of the Best Moving Companies in Colorado Springs, in Fort Collins, and in Denver.
Must dos before your arrival
- Update Your Address: Changing your address is a crucial step when relocating. You can easily set up mail forwarding either online or in person before your move. Remember to update your address with various organizations, including the SSA, DMV, and home services. To ensure you don’t miss any important notifications, refer to our comprehensive change of address checklist, which covers all the places you need to update when moving.
- Weather Preparedness: Be ready for Colorado’s diverse weather, like the heavy snowfall in the winter. Check local forecasts and pack accordingly, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the region’s climate variations.
- Apartment Hunting: Plan ahead by researching and scheduling apartment visits before your arrival. This proactive approach will help streamline your housing search process and ensure a smoother transition.
2. Upon your arrival in Colorado
Must dos right upon your arrival
- Get familiar with your neighborhood, and make sure to take note of the essential emergency numbers.
- Locate the essential facilities like the nearest hospital, police station, and fire department for your safety and in case of emergency.
- Roaming around the city for work or just simply checking on it, it would be great to purchase a daily transit pass to save money.
How much does local transportation cost
Public transport in Colorado is widely available. For example, Colorado’s Regional Transportation District (RTD) offers bus, rail, and light rail services to Denver, Boulder, and nearby cities.
|
Type of fare |
Rate |
|
Single ticket |
$3.00 |
|
10-Ride Ticket Book |
$28.00 |
|
Weekly pass |
$47.00 |
|
Monthly pass |
$114.00 |
Exchanging your driver’s license
If you have recently moved to Colorado, you have 30 days from the time you arrive to obtain a Colorado driver’s license. You can easily apply for a driver’s license online.
If you have just moved to Colorado and you have brought your vehicle with you, you need to register it within 90 days of establishing residency in Colorado. Don’t wait till the last minute and register your vehicle online. You might also be required to fill out an emission inspection form if it is applicable in the county you’re residing in.
For more information, check out our article on how to notify the Colorado DMV of an address change.
Setting up a bank account
When moving to Colorado, it’s essential to establish a local presence by setting up a bank account. This state follows the same procedures and regulations as in other states. Wells Fargo Bank has more than 100 branch locations in Colorado, and it is convenient for every local because it is accessible.
Getting health insurance
Getting health insurance is an excellent way to get peace of mind when it comes to your health. With health insurance, you will not have to worry about spending a ton of money in case of a health-related emergency. Healthcare is regulated by the state in the US and so the state of Colorado proposes a website to help you with your health insurance search. Simply choose Colorado as your state and create an account.
3. Best places to live in Colorado
Choosing to move to Colorado often means considering Denver. It is the fourth-best city in the United States for business and careers, with a vibrant economy. It has so many high-paying jobs and a low unemployment rate.
The city has something for everyone to enjoy, from arts and entertainment to sports and food. As one of the most livable cities in Colorado, Denver features unique neighborhoods offering exceptional qualities such as a low crime rate, affordable housing, top-notch education, and access to public transit. If you are planning to live in Denver, here are the 8 best neighborhoods in Denver.
|
Neighborhood |
Characteristics |
|
Capitol Hill |
Best for walkability |
|
City Park |
80% of the area is a park |
|
North Park Hill |
Best for families |
|
Wellshire |
Best for safety |
|
Washington Park |
Best for the outdoorsy families |
|
Cherry Creek |
Best for a sophisticated & luxurious lifestyle |
|
South Park Hill |
Best for large families |
|
LoDo (Lower Downtown) |
Best for downtown living |
Setting up home services
To set up electricity, you can either contact or visit the website of Xcel Energy. It’s a reliable option for setting up electricity when you move to Colorado. To set up a water supply, you can contact Tri-County Water. For natural gas supply, you can contact Colorado Natural Gas by submitting a request on their website.
The best internet providers in Colorado will have bundling options, various speeds, and multiple package options at reasonable prices.
Should you rent or buy?
In Colorado, the cost of owning a house averages around $562,400. When it comes to renting, a 1-bedroom apartment typically goes for approximately $1,645.50 in the state.
Colorado has more than 2.5 million housing units, so the state offers plenty of options. For the beauty that Colorado offers, the housing costs are relatively fair. The property tax rate in Colorado is 6.765% of market value in 2024.
Learn more below.
Cost of rent in Colorado
|
Area/Neighborhood |
1-bed apartment |
3-bed apartment |
|
Denver (Outside of Center) |
$1,645.50 |
$2,964.00 |
Cost of buying a property in Colorado
|
Area/Neighborhood |
Average home price |
|
Colorado |
$562,400 |
Home Insurance in Colorado
When getting a home insurance plan, the main thing that you need to check is coverage for natural disasters. In Colorado, tornadoes, avalanches and flooding can cause damage to a home. So, it is crucial to obtain an insurance plan which will cover the costs of any damage. Also, people who buy a home in Colorado may be required by their mortgage lender to acquire home insurance.
4. Cost of living in Colorado
|
Category |
Monthly cost |
|
1 bed apt rent outside city center |
$1,645.50 |
|
Groceries Numbeo’s grocery list ($69.28 multiplied by 4) |
$277.12 |
|
Utilities Electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage |
$183.72 |
|
Internet with 60 Mbps |
$77.34 |
|
Transit pass |
$114.00 |
|
Entertainment Meal, taxi, movie |
$77.75 |
|
Gym membership |
$57.00 |
|
Total |
$2,432.43 |
5. The weather in Colorado
On average, there are 300 sunny days per year in Denver, Colorado.
- Summer High: the July high is around 86°F
- Winter Low: the January low is around 16°F
- Precipitation: averages at 8-15 inches per year.
6. What to do as a local in Colorado
The breathtaking landscapes of Colorado offer a myriad of outdoor activities that cater to the diverse interests of its residents. From skiing and hiking the majestic 14,000-foot peaks to rock climbing and fishing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this picturesque state. Mountain biking is a common pastime among the locals, allowing them to embrace the serene beauty of the mountains.
For the more adventurous spirits, hunting and camping are easily accessible, providing ample opportunities to embrace the great outdoors. Additionally, the people of Colorado are passionate sports enthusiasts, particularly when it comes to supporting the Broncos.
7. Fun facts about Colorado
Fun Fact #1
Colorado has been inhabited for more than 13,000 years.
Fun Fact #2
The cheeseburger was trademarked in Colorado.
Fun Fact #3
Colorado is home to the highest sand dunes in the US.
Conclusion
Colorado’s magnetism for newcomers stems from its breathtaking landscapes and a robust job market. High-demand careers like nursing and accounting, coupled with the allure of natural beauty, make it an attractive choice. Pre-move, address updates and weather preparation are essential.
Planning ahead for housing and getting acquainted with your new neighborhood upon arrival streamline the process. Exploring public transportation and ensuring your legal and financial matters are in order are vital. Don’t forget to secure health insurance.
Denver shines as a business hub with appealing neighborhoods, and organizing essential services is a breeze. Whether you choose to rent or buy, Colorado offers diverse opportunities. The state’s outdoor activities and intriguing fun facts add to its charm.
Moving soon? Discover the best movers for your move to Colorado.
