Cheapest Places to Live in Colorado (2026) | Buyer Math
February 2, 2026
5 minutes
Struggling to afford your ideal life in 2025?
Rising rent, stagnant wages, and skyrocketing housing prices are pushing people to rethink where they live-not just how.
Here’s the solution:
Colorado isn’t just mountains and luxury ski towns. It’s also home to underrated, affordable, family-friendly cities where you can:
- Buy a home for under $250K
- Cut your cost of living by 30%+
- Still access jobs, schools, and natural beauty
In this 2025 affordability breakdown, we’ll show you:
- The 7 cheapest cities in Colorado to live now
- Hidden mountain towns that are budget-friendly and safe
- Colorado vs other states: how costs stack up
- How to save on buyer agent commission with reAlpha
Whether you’re relocating, retiring, or investing-we’ll help you move smart and own your future affordably.
Cheapest Places to Live in Colorado (2025)
This snapshot gives a quick affordability comparison across Colorado’s most budget-friendly cities using updated 2025 data.
City | Median Home Price | Cost of Living Index | Median Income | Job Growth (2024) | Healthcare | School Rating | Who It’s For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pueblo | $239,000 | 86.5 | $53,500 | 2.1% | Good | ★★★☆☆ | First-time buyers, remote workers |
Canon City | $225,000 | 84.2 | $48,900 | 1.9% | Fair | ★★★☆☆ | Retirees, families |
Trinidad | $210,000 | 82.8 | $45,000 | 1.7% | Good | ★★☆☆☆ | Budget-conscious relocators |
Alamosa | $195,000 | 80.6 | $41,200 | 1.5% | Average | ★★★☆☆ | Rural buyers, students |
La Junta | $185,000 | 79.5 | $39,800 | 1.4% | Fair | ★★☆☆☆ | Seniors, fixed income |
| Lamar | $172,000 | 77.9 | $37,900 | 1.1% | Limited | ★★☆☆☆ | Low-income families |
| Monte Vista | $168,000 | 76.8 | $36,700 | 0.9% | Limited | ★★☆☆☆ | Entry-level buyers |
Bottom line: You don’t need Denver or Boulder prices to live well in Colorado. These cities offer real affordability, job access, and community vibes-without sacrificing quality of life.
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The 7 Most Affordable Places to Live in Colorado (2025 Edition)
We crunched the numbers-home prices, rent, and overall cost of living-to bring you 7 cities where you can actually live well in Colorado without draining your wallet. Whether you’re after a family-friendly town, a job hub, or just cheap housing in Colorado, these picks deliver.
Pueblo, Colorado
Bold Takeaway:
Pueblo is Colorado’s affordability powerhouse-with home prices nearly 40% lower than Denver, but growing investment interest and job access.
Pueblo Affordability Snapshot (2025)
Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Median Home Price | $239,000 | $100K+ cheaper than Colorado average |
Cost of Living Index | 86.5 | 13.5% below U.S. average |
Median Income | $53,500 | Lower income, but cost scales |
Unemployment Rate | 3.2% | Better than national average |
Healthcare Access | Good | 2 hospitals + clinics |
School Quality | ★★★☆☆ | Improving in key districts |
| Crime Rate | Medium | Improving with neighborhood watch zones |
Who Should Consider Pueblo?
- First-time buyers priced out of Denver or Colorado Springs
- Remote workers looking for low housing + high livability
- Investors hunting for cash-flow rentals in overlooked metros
Canon City, Colorado
Bold Takeaway:
Canon City blends affordability with outdoorsy charm-think low housing costs, mountain access, and a slower pace perfect for retirees or remote-first families.
Canon City Affordability Snapshot (2025)
Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Median Home Price | $225,000 | Among the cheapest in the state |
Cost of Living Index | 84.2 | ~16% below U.S. average |
Median Income | $48,900 | Balanced against housing cost |
Job Growth Rate | 1.9% | Strong in service + tourism |
Healthcare Access | Fair | 1 regional hospital |
School Rating | ★★★☆☆ | Improving with new charter schools |
| Crime Rate | Low | Safer than Pueblo and Denver |
Who Should Consider Canon City?
- Retirees looking for quiet and affordability
- Nature lovers-close to Royal Gorge, Arkansas River trails
- Remote workers needing peace + space
Trinidad, Colorado
Bold Takeaway:
Trinidad is the underdog with upside-historic charm, rock-bottom prices, and early-stage revitalization make it a hidden gem for budget-conscious movers.
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Trinidad Affordability Snapshot (2025)
Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Median Home Price | $210,000 | Among Colorado’s lowest |
Cost of Living Index | 82.8 | ~18% below U.S. average |
Median Income | $45,000 | Modest, but scales with cost |
Job Growth Rate | 1.7% | Growth in arts, remote gigs |
Healthcare Access | Good | Full-service hospital in town |
School Rating | ★★☆☆☆ | Limited, but improving |
| Crime Rate | Medium-Low | Quiet, especially in family neighborhoods |
Who Should Consider Trinidad?
- Remote workers priced out of big cities
- Artists and entrepreneurs (emerging creative district)
- Early investors seeking affordable entry points
Alamosa, Colorado
Bold Takeaway:
Alamosa is the cheapest gateway to Colorado’s wild beauty-nestled near the Great Sand Dunes, it combines ultra-low housing with unbeatable access to outdoor adventure.
Alamosa Affordability Snapshot (2025)
Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Median Home Price | $195,000 | Lowest so far |
Cost of Living Index | 80.6 | 19% below U.S. average |
Median Income | $41,200 | Lower, but cost is ultra-low |
Job Growth Rate | 1.5% | Education + tourism based |
Healthcare Access | Average | Regional medical center |
School Rating | ★★★☆☆ | Adams State support boosts quality |
| Crime Rate | Low | Rural stability helps |
Who Should Consider Alamosa?
- Outdoor enthusiasts wanting low-cost mountain life
- Teachers, university staff, students at Adams State
- Families seeking safety + simplicity
La Junta, Colorado
Bold Takeaway:
La Junta delivers ultra-low cost living for small-town buyers-ideal for families, seniors, or anyone seeking simplicity without financial strain.
La Junta Affordability Snapshot (2025)
Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Median Home Price | $185,000 | Among Colorado’s absolute lowest |
Cost of Living Index | 79.5 | Over 20% below U.S. average |
Median Income | $39,800 | Lower range, but proportionate cost |
Job Growth Rate | 1.4% | Healthcare + logistics hub |
Healthcare Access | Fair | Small hospital + clinics |
School Rating | ★★★☆☆ | Some standout elementary schools |
| Crime Rate | Low | Tight-knit community feel |
Who Should Consider La Junta?
- Fixed-income seniors or veterans
- Buyers seeking peace + ultra-low expenses
- Remote workers focused on cost savings
Lamar, Colorado
Bold Takeaway:
Lamar is Colorado’s sleeper town for extreme affordability-with homes under $175K, it’s a fit for buyers prioritizing peace, savings, and small-town values.
Lamar Affordability Snapshot (2025)
Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Median Home Price | $172,000 | One of the absolute lowest in the state |
Cost of Living Index | 77.9 | ~22% below U.S. average |
Median Income | $37,900 | Reflects rural economy |
Job Growth Rate | 1.1% | Agriculture + rail shipping base |
Healthcare Access | Limited | Small community hospital |
School Rating | ★★★☆☆ | Limited AP access |
| Crime Rate | Very Low | One of the safest towns in the region |
Who Should Consider Lamar?
- Retirees seeking extreme cost-cutting
- Buyers from high-cost states like CA, NY, or CO Front Range
- Investors looking for low-cost rental properties
Monte Vista, Colorado
Bold Takeaway:
Monte Vista is your quietest, most affordable Colorado option-with homes under $170K and a tight-knit rural vibe, it’s perfect for ultra-budget buyers.
Monte Vista Affordability Snapshot (2025)
Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Median Home Price | $168,000 | One of the lowest in the state |
Cost of Living Index | 76.8 | 23% below national average |
Median Income | $36,700 | Rural but proportional |
Job Growth Rate | 0.9% | Small business + agriculture base |
Healthcare Access | Limited | Closest hospital in Alamosa |
School Rating | ★★★☆☆ | Strong support programs, but fewer resources |
| Crime Rate | Very Low | Safe, tight community |
Who Should Consider Monte Vista?
- First-time buyers on tight budgets
- Remote workers needing quiet + savings
- Retirees or singles seeking low cost of living
Affordable Mountain Towns in Colorado (2025)
Mountain living doesn’t have to mean Aspen prices. These towns offer fresh air, stunning views, and surprisingly low costs-perfect for buyers chasing elevation and affordability.
Top 3 Cheap Mountain Towns to Live in Colorado
1. Salida, CO
Metric | Value |
|---|---|
Median Home Price | ~$325,000 |
Cost of Living | 95.4 (below national average) |
| Vibe | Artsy, walkable, wellness-focused |
Best For | Remote professionals, retirees, creatives |
| Why Move | Access to the Arkansas River, great food, and mild mountain winters |
Key Nugget: Salida’s home values are lower than other ski towns-and the town is walkable, peaceful, and WiFi-ready.
2. Cañon City, CO (Double Feature)
Metric | Value |
|---|---|
Median Home Price | ~$225,000 |
Elevation | 5,300 ft |
| Nature Access | Royal Gorge, rivers, hot springs |
Best For | Nature seekers, photographers, van-lifers |
| Why Move | All the beauty, none of the Breck crowds or price tags |
Key Nugget: You get mountain town views at small-town prices-a rare combo in Colorado.
3. Paonia, CO
Metric | Value |
|---|---|
Median Home Price | ~$310,000 |
Known For | Organic farms, local wine, remote-first living |
| Internet | Fiber available in most areas |
Best For | Digital nomads, artists, foodies |
| Why Move | A hidden valley that’s becoming a creative + clean-living hub |
Key Nugget: Paonia gives Telluride vibes on a Pueblo budget-ideal for remote workers seeking community and clean air.
Colorado vs Other States: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Colorado is cheaper than you think-especially when compared to coastal states and rising metros. Here's how it stacks up in 2025.
Cost of Living Comparison: Colorado vs Other States (2025)
State | Housing Index | Overall COL Index | Avg Rent (2BR) | Avg Home Price | Grocery Index | Utilities Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | 104.5 | 100.2 | $1,410 | $445,000 | 98.1 | 93.5 |
| Texas | 91.3 | 92.5 | $1,295 | $375,000 | 94.8 | 95.0 |
California | 165.0 | 142.8 | $2,750 | $740,000+ | 115.7 | 120.2 |
Georgia | 89.4 | 90.8 | $1,280 | $330,000 | 91.2 | 91.8 |
| Arizona | 98.5 | 97.3 | $1,390 | $399,000 | 96.5 | 95.2 |
| North Carolina | 90.1 | 91.6 | $1,275 | $340,000 | 92.6 | 93.9 |
Insights:
- Colorado's housing is more affordable than CA or AZ’s metros, especially outside the Front Range.
- Utilities and groceries are cheaper than many assume-especially in rural and mountain regions.
- Compared to Georgia or NC, home prices are higher-but income potential and appreciation are too.
Cheapest Neighborhoods in Denver & Colorado Springs (2025)
If you need big-city jobs but not big-city prices, target these budget-friendly neighborhoods and suburbs.
Denver & Nearby (Cheapest neighborhoods/suburbs in Denver, CO 2025)
- Thornton & Westminster – Consistently cheaper than Denver proper; good starter homes and apartments; quick I-25 access.
- Aurora (Green Valley Ranch, Tower District) – Lower median home prices vs. Central Denver; newer builds; airport access.
- Lakewood (Kipling/Green Mountain edges) – Older stock = value buys; fast commute to downtown or DTC.
- Harvey Park / Bear Valley – Classic mid-century homes; some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Denver that still offer yards and garages.
Colorado Springs & Nearby (Is Colorado Springs cheaper than Denver?)
- Fountain – One of the cheapest cities to rent in Colorado near a major metro; quick military corridor access.
- Peyton / Cimarron Hills – Value for larger lots; solid for first-time buyers wanting space.
- Security-Widefield – Lower price-per-sq-ft; easy commute to central Springs.
Quick answers:
- Is Colorado Springs cheaper than Denver? Generally, yes - lower COL index and median rents.
- Cheapest places to rent near Denver? Look to Thornton, Westminster, Aurora corridor first, then Lakewood pockets.
Best Affordable Small Towns in Colorado (Hidden Gems)
If you want quiet streets, low taxes, and friendly neighbors, these affordable small towns in Colorado are your sweet spot.
- La Junta – Ultra-low housing costs; calm pace; great for seniors and fixed-income buyers.
- Lamar – Often the least expensive place to live in Colorado; cheap houses and one of the safer small-town vibes.
- Alamosa – University energy (Adams State) + cheap living; gateway to the Great Sand Dunes.
- Monte Vista – Tight-knit community, very low rent options; perfect for remote workers.
- Trinidad – Historic downtown, creative scene, affordable real estate with upside.
- Cañon City – “Small-town feel, big-nature access” at low cost of living; Royal Gorge in your backyard.
Who should consider these towns?
- First-time buyers chasing lowest cost of living in Colorado
- Remote workers who want cheap places to live with great outdoors
- Retirees seeking affordable retirement communities in Colorado (non-HOA options abound)
Colorado’s Cheapest Mountain Towns (2025)
Mountain life ≠ Aspen prices. Aim for these affordable Colorado mountain towns for year-round nature at sane prices.
- Leadville – High-alpine, historic, and cheaper than Summit County; rugged beauty without resort premiums.
- Salida – Walkable arts town; river access; cheapest mountain towns vibes with cafes, clinics, and fiber.
- Paonia – Organic farms, wineries, remote-work culture; affordable homes vs. glam ski towns.
- Creede – Quiet mining-town character, inexpensive mountain town feel; fishing, hiking, dark skies.
- Westcliffe – Wide-open views of the Sangres; lower prices; low light pollution heaven.
- Del Norte – San Luis Valley hub; cheap houses relative to mountain access; growing trail network.
Best for: Buyers who want affordable mountain homes, slower pace, and access to trails, rivers, and public lands.
Renting vs. Buying in Colorado: Cheapest Paths (2025)
Not sure whether to rent or buy? Use this quick framework to capture cheapest places to rent in Colorado now while planning an affordable purchase.
Cheapest rent clusters (2025):
- Pueblo / Greeley / Security-Widefield – Regularly among the cheapest rent in Colorado for 1–3 BRs.
- Alamosa / La Junta / Lamar – Rural markets with low median rents and cheap utilities.
- Salida / Cañon City – For cheap mountain towns, rents are still below resort metros.
When renting makes sense:
- You’re new to Colorado and need cost-of-living comparison time.
- You want 6–12 months to scope neighborhoods (Denver vs. Colorado Springs vs. small towns).
When buying wins:
- You plan to stay 2–5 years.
- You’ve found cheapest cities to live in Colorado where mortgage < rent.
You’re eyeing homes for sale near Colorado Springs under $300,000 or small towns with lowest house prices.
Safest & Most Affordable Places to Live in Colorado (2025)
If your filter is “cheap and safe”, start here - these towns balance low crime and low housing costs.
- Lamar – Cheapest area to live in Colorado with very low crime; classic small-town calm.
- Cañon City – Safer than large metros; good starter homes; mountain recreation.
- Monte Vista – Safe and affordable with a cohesive community.
- Alamosa – Rural safety, college-town services; affordable living in Colorado without isolation.
Best for: Families, retirees, and remote workers who prioritize safety + affordability over nightlife and density.
Cost of Living in Colorado Cities (2025)
Colorado isn’t one price tag. Your cost of living in Colorado depends on where you plant roots.
Front Range Metros (higher, but still options):
- Denver – Highest housing index; look to cheapest neighborhoods in Denver (Harvey Park, parts of Aurora/Thornton/Westminster) to trim costs.
- Colorado Springs – Typically cheaper than Denver on housing and rent; growing quickly.
- Fort Collins / Boulder – Premium pricing, student/tech demand; low cost-of-living seekers should consider suburbs or smaller cities.
Budget-Friendlier Cities:
- Pueblo – Often the most affordable city in Colorado among larger hubs.
- Grand Junction / Greeley – Mid-tier pricing; cheapest places to live in Colorado for those wanting jobs + amenities without Front Range premiums.
- Southern Colorado towns (La Junta, Alamosa, Lamar) – Some of the lowest cost of living in Colorado; great for first-time buyers.
Takeaway: If you need affordable living in Colorado, compare Denver vs. Colorado Springs, then check Pueblo, Grand Junction, Greeley, and small towns for the best value real estate.
Ready to Live Smarter in Colorado?
If you’re priced out of Denver or overwhelmed by rising housing costs, this guide proves one thing:
You don’t need a massive income to build wealth in Colorado.
From Pueblo’s affordability to Salida’s scenic charm, Colorado is packed with towns that offer:
- Sub-$250K homes
- Livable wages and safer neighborhoods
- Lower costs for groceries, healthcare, and utilities
Whether you're retiring, relocating, investing, or buying your first home-your best move could be away from the metros and into one of Colorado’s hidden gems.
How reAlpha Helps You Buy Smarter
Want to save big while moving smart?
Buy your Colorado home with reAlpha and receive a portion of your buyer agent’s commission back.
- Earn cashback when you work with reAlpha Realty
- Increase your cashback when you add a reAlpha Mortgage
- Maximize your savings when you also bundle title services
Looking beyond Colorado? You might find surprisingly affordable cities in Arizona and Washington-especially for remote workers or sunbelt movers.
For safety-focused buyers, we’ve also profiled North Carolina’s safest cities and low-crime towns in Virginia.
If you're comparing build-to-own vs resale, check the cost to build in New Jersey or explore beach home options in North Carolina.
FAQs
What is the cheapest place to live in Colorado?
Lamar, CO tops the list with a median home price under $175K. Key point: It’s ideal for buyers seeking safety, simplicity, and sub-$200K homes.
Is Colorado affordable to live in?
Yes-if you avoid Denver and Boulder. Key point: Towns like Pueblo, Canon City, and Alamosa offer affordability 20–30% below the national average.
What are the most affordable cities in Colorado?
Pueblo, Trinidad, La Junta, Alamosa, and Canon City are top picks. Key point: Each offers median home prices well below $250K.
What are the cheapest towns in Colorado?
Monte Vista, Lamar, and La Junta rank lowest. Key point: Great for retirees, fixed-income buyers, or anyone wanting to live mortgage-free.
What’s the cost of living in Colorado vs Texas or Arizona?
Colorado’s small towns are competitive-often cheaper on utilities and groceries. Key point: Avoiding major metros unlocks big savings.
Where can I buy a house in Colorado under $150,000?
In rural towns like Monte Vista or La Junta, homes under $150K still exist. Key point: These are rare entry points in today’s market
What’s the most affordable mountain town in Colorado?
Cañon City or Salida offer the best mix of elevation + low prices. Key point: You don’t need Aspen’s ZIP to get mountain air.
Where is the cheapest and safest place to live in Colorado?
La Junta ranks high for both safety and affordability. Key point: Low crime + ultra-low cost make it ideal for families and seniors.
What are some affordable cities near Denver?
Look at Pueblo (90 mins south) or Canon City (2 hrs). Key point: Still drivable but 30–50% cheaper than the Denver metro area.
What are the best places to live in Colorado for the price?
Pueblo, Canon City, and Paonia top our 2025 value list. Key point: Each blends livability, nature access, and long-term equity potential.
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Article by
As a great communicator with excellent negotiation skills, I focus more on establishing unbreakable ties between my clients, as opposed to just helping them achieve their real estate dreams. As a representative of both buyers and sellers, I understand how to lead a transaction process to ensure that the needs of both are met. My track record speaks for itself. Since I ventured into the industry in 2013 as a realtor, I have not only helped many buyers land perfect homes, but I have also assisted tons of owners and investors build wealth.