Colorado Springs

A fitness-friendly city in a beautiful setting, Colorado Springs is an inspiring place to live, work and play. The state’s second-largest city, this scenic destination is well-known for its compelling history, great schools, stunning vistas and diverse recreational opportunities. Here’s what you should know if you’re thinking of buying a home in beautiful Colorado Springs.

A Storied History

Founded in 1871 by General William Jackson Palmer, Colorado Springs was designed as an upscale resort community with modern amenities and services. This initial thoughtful development is one of the many things that attract residents, who appreciate the city’s mild, dry climate, breathtaking natural surroundings and high altitude over a mile above sea level. 

Spanning more than 186 square miles, Colorado Springs is the state’s second most populated city, second only to Denver, which is conveniently located about 60 miles north.

What Makes it Unique?

With dozens of attractions and diverse activities, Colorado Springs is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers and families. In addition to its great schools, peaceful neighborhoods and many shopping centers, the area offers a rich Western history, exquisite natural landscapes and impressive cultural offerings. 

The crisp mountain air and sunny skies make Colorado Springs a perfect place for everything from extreme sports and golf outings to peaceful picnics at the many well-maintained parks. You can also experience remarkable natural wonders and soaring adventures at legendary Pikes Peak and stunning Garden of the Gods Park. 

Sample distinctive selections at local craft breweries and distilleries or spend the day hiking or biking one of the many scenic trails. Discover the bustling downtown area, filled with charming local shops and boutiques, bookstores, jewelers, candy stores, antique shops and art galleries. 

Home to numerous small businesses and cutting-edge startups, Colorado Springs boasts an innovative business climate. It also plays host to a robust cybersecurity industry and an impressive roster of tech companies, providing diverse employment opportunities compared to most other Colorado communities. In contrast to its high elevation, the city has a relatively low cost of living which sets it apart from other neighboring markets and big cities across the nation. 

Colorado Springs is home to both Army and Air Force bases, including the Air Force Academy, Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station, Peterson Air Force Base, Fort Carson Army Base and Schriever Air Force Base, which is located east of the city in El Paso County.

Living in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs homes tend to be a bit more affordable compared to many other parts of the state. This is one of the big reasons so many people choose to make the city their home. Since it’s only about an hour’s drive from Denver, Colorado Springs is popular among commuters who want a suburban lifestyle without being too far from major employment and entertainment opportunities.

Although it is definitely a city, Colorado Springs has more of a suburban feel, making it especially popular among married couples and families. With great weather and a strong sense of community, there’s always something going on, whether its farmers markets, art festivals or music events. The area also offers great quality of life with a variety of outdoor activities and some of the nation’s cleanest air.

Colorado Springs has no shortage of great restaurants, bars, and cafes that showcase great food and spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains. From steakhouses to bakeries to Mexican restaurants, you’ll have no trouble finding something to satisfy your appetite. The city also features several restaurants that offer vegetarian and vegan options.

Colorado Springs is also celebrated for having one of the region’s better school systems. The region is known for its top-notch K-12 public and private education institutions spread across 17 different school districts. It’s also well-regarded for its nationally recognized higher education institutions, including the University of Colorado Springs, Colorado College, United States Air Force Academy and more. When they move to Colorado Springs, parents can rest assured that their kids are getting a first-rate education. Local schools generally score quite well on tests, and high school curriculums are geared toward preparing students for college.

A pet-friendly city, Colorado Springs offers several dog parks, where your furry loved one can socialize with other dogs. There are also plenty of pet-friendly trails and recreational areas where you and your dog can get some exercise while enjoying the Colorado sunshine.

If you’re planning to buy a new home in Colorado Springs or need help selling an existing property, The Pikes Peak Properties Team can help. For more than a decade, we’ve specialized in residential real estate in Colorado Springs and all of El Paso County.

Browse our listings below of current homes on the market or contact our team directly at 719-822-1444. Our passionate real estate professionals are ready to help guide you through the home buying/selling process and provide in-depth information about living in Colorado Springs.