11 minute read
CALL COLORADO HOME
Reasons to call Colorado home
Colorado is more than a state with spectacular vistas. To 5.8 million people, it is also a wonderful place to call home. The state is known for outstanding access to outdoor recreation in all four seasons, as well as amusing attractions, award-winning craft beer and close-knit communities that are culturally diverse.
Colorado is also growing. Its steady inbound migration leads to greater economic output. Data from the 2020 U.S. Census indicates that Colorado ranks fifth in population growth. Moreover, a 2019 National Movers Study discovered the primary reasons that individuals move to Colorado includes family considerations (36%) and job opportunities (31%). Others seek a lifestyle change (26%) or want to retire in the Rocky Mountains (15%).
With these numbers in mind, the state government projects the population in Colorado will increase to 7.8 million by 2040. So, what’s so cool about Colorado? Here’s a few highlights.
Location
Though Colorado is part of the Mountain West, it is also near the heart of the nation. As part of the Four Corners region, Colorado shares borders with seven states: Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Utah and Arizona. The central location makes the region a hub for distribution and travel. The Continental Divide separates the Front Range from the Western Slope, and the Colorado River divides the northern and southern regions of the Western Slope around Grand Junction – the most populous city between Denver and Salt Lake City, Utah. Nature
Public access to open space and nature appeals to artists, athletes and everyone in between. The rural landscape on the rugged Western Slope is rife with flora and fauna unique to the region. Colorado includes spectacular peaks and valleys, caves and canyons, mesas and meadows, rivers and reservoirs. The region has high alpine forests that fade into vast, dusty deserts scattered with rock formations. The different ecosystems are protected by federal, state and local laws to foster natural balance and beauty for years to come. Learn how to follow ethical practices outdoors at www.lnt.org. Climate
Southwest Colorado experiences four seasons and nearly 300 days of sunshine. In the mountains, the elevation often affects the weather conditions. Though temperature differences can be more drastic, there is generally a five-degree difference in temperature per thousand feet. Near Durango at 6,512 feet, winter temperatures range from the average low of 13 degrees Fahrenheit to the average high of 47 degrees. The majority of precipitation falls in this season as snow. Spring brings warmer temperatures with rain that revives the vibrant colors of the landscape. Summer temperatures range from an average high of 85 degrees and low of 50.
Recreation
Pristine weather conditions and a varied landscape creates a paradise for outdoor activities. Access nearly 300 miles of hiking trails within just 30 minutes of La Plata County, and thousands more in the surrounding counties of Archuleta, San Juan, Ouray and Montezuma in Colorado. Whether for competition or leisure, biking
is a popular pastime for many residents here. The region hosts world-class road cycling and mountain biking competitions, including the annual Iron Horse Bicycle Classic. Colorado’s waterways offer opportunities for fun floating, paddling, swimming and whitewater rafting. And the state is a premier destination for fishing and hunting. Winter offers traditional snow sports, such as figure skating, ice hockey, skiing and snowboarding, but also includes dog sledding, ice climbing and skijoring.
Economics
Of course, job opportunities are not only a primary motivator for relocation, they are also an important financial factor in deciding where to settle. In Southwestern Colorado, the top industries are hospitality and tourism, healthcare, retail, real estate, education and energy. For example, some of the most prominent employers in La Plata County include Axis Health System, Mercy Regional Medical Center, Purgatory Resort, Durango School District, Southern Ute Indian Tribe, Fort Lewis College, Sky Ute Casino and Resort, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum. Health
Colorado often makes headlines for being the “healthiest” state in the nation. That’s because a healthy community extends beyond the pillars of diet, sleep and exercise. According to data from the CDC, Colorado has held the lowest or second lowest obesity rate since 1995. Colorado’s health infrastructures encourage an active lifestyle and establish support systems which help the state maintain its reputation. In addition to access to outdoor recreation, residents receive access to a plethora of health and wellness services, including world-class geothermal hot springs.
Education
Access to quality education is essential for families with children. In La Plata County, Durango School District is Southwest Colorado’s largest school district serving more than 4,500 students. Bayfield School District serves nearly 1,200 students and Ignacio School District serves just over 1,000 students. Each public school offers a comprehensive, standardized curriculum. Residents also have opportunities to enroll in higher education at Pueblo Community College, a fully-accredited two-year college, and Fort Lewis College, a selective four-year liberal arts institution that offers more than 100 degree programs.
Attractions
Outdoor recreation isn’t the only draw to the Wild West. Tourism is a vital part of the economy, and Southwest Colorado’s concentration of tourist attractions encourages travelers from around the globe to visit our communities. From city parks and playgrounds to national parks and historic landmarks, the Southwest is home to an array of activities to enjoy year-round. Some popular destinations nearby include Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum, Mesa Verde National Park, Chimney Rock National Monument, Four Corners National Monument and Canyons of the Ancient National Monument. Colorado communities also have vibrant creative districts with dozens of galleries and studios to explore as well as independent retailers that carry a variety of high-quality clothing, housewares, handcrafted goods much more.
Cuisine
Dinner decisions are made more difficult with so many amazing options for dining out. Restaurants in our region work with local producers that supply the freshest, locally-grown ingredients for mouthwatering menus that often rotate with the seasons. While establishments that serve bar food, pizza by the slice or Mexican food are some of the most popular, many of Colorado’s restaurants serve items inspired by international delicacies. With nearly 200 established craft breweries, Colorado is also a beer lover’s paradise. Swing by the offices for The Durango Herald or The Journal to grab a Flavor Four Corners Dining Guide to learn more about drinking and dining opportunities in Southwest Colorado.
Community
Relocation can often mean losing connections to a supportive community. Luckily, Southwest Colorado has a diverse population with hundreds of recreation groups and volunteer opportunities that help residents get involved and establish new friendships and relationships. Colorado residents emphasize building a strong local economy and supporting small, independent businesses. Many business owners and leaders of nonprofit organizations work together to raise awareness of the benefits of money circulating in our communities. n
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TBD COUNTY ROAD 105 2 BD- 2 BA - 768 SF - 20 AC MLS# 787459 - $399,000 real estate is our full time business
Max Hutcheson
970.769.7392
Deven Meininger
970.903.8316
www.thedurangoteam.com info@thedurangoteam.com
Just a few miles from downtown Durango, Edgemont Meadows sits at the edge of a long valley leading to the vast Weminuche Wilderness area.
Additional lots available in Edgemont Meadows. Call to discuss lot and floor plan options available for purchase.
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305 HAY BARN ROAD 3 BD - 2 BA -1995 SF MLS# 778345 - $750,000
291 HAY BARN ROAD 3 BD - 2 BA -1995 SF MLS# 778346 - $750,000
273 HAY BARN ROAD 3 BD - 2 BA -1995 SF MLS# 778347 - $750,000
Mountain Trace is a beautiful community of town homes conveniently located less than five minutes from bike trails, restaurants, shops, and breweries in the heart of downtown Durango. Call us regarding new phases beginning in 2022.
real estate is our full time business
Max Hutcheson
970.769.7392
Deven Meininger
970.903.8316
www.thedurangoteam.com info@thedurangoteam.com
The final phase of the Cedar Ridge Community includes a single family home and two different townhome floorplans. All include granite countertops throughout, tile backsplash in the kitchen, stainless steel appliances, and an attached garage. Don’t miss out on in-town convenience, close to Fort Lewis College, Hillcrest Golf Course, and great trail access.
84 CEDAR RIDGE WAY 3 BD - 3 BA - 2483 SF MLS #780935 - $899,000
Commercial
140 & 144 CEDAR RIDGE WAY 2 BD - 3 BA - 1622 SF MLS #789353 & 789354 - $635,000
124 CEDAR RIDGE WAY 3 BD - 3 BA -2001 SF MLS #780937 - $735,000
1175 CAMINO DEL RIO High Visibility - 1 BA - 5380 SF MLS# 785436 - $1,200,000
FOR LEASE UNDER CONTRACT
72 SUTTLE STREET 2247 SF - BODO PARK MLS# 788545 - $3,000
Leased
691 COUNTY ROAD 233 960 SF - 3 PARKING SPACES MLS# 789861 - $750+Triple Net 463 TURNER DRIVE, 104A 8 Offices - 2 BA - 2000 SF MLS# 797056 - $325,000
100 JENKINS RANCH WAY 5 Units - 2 BA - 2790 SF MLS# 780891 - $599,000
real estate is our full time business
www.thedurangoteam.com info@thedurangoteam.com
170 METZ LANE 2.33 AC - Development Opportunity Zoned for medium density that allows for 5 to 11 units per acre MLS# 788059 - $1,225,000 578 HERMOSA MEADOWS ROAD .09 AC level lot in The Coves MLS# 778636 - $155,000
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Three Springs is an ever-growing community 10 minutes East of downtown Durango. Located by the hospital as well as many other businesses, you have easy access to everything you need in your neighborhood including restaurants, gyms, and a grocery market. Three Springs has an interlaced walking path and direct access to the Spur Line trail which is great for biking! Don’t miss out on your next home being in Three Springs.
1073 SPRING ROAD 3.4 AC in Rafter J MLS# 789432 - $134,000
real estate is our full time business
www.thedurangoteam.com info@thedurangoteam.com
