Colorado Real Estate & Relocation Guide

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Population: 369,815

Located in El Paso County

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs “The Springs”, as it is known locally, was founded in 1871. The city is nestled at the foot of Pikes Peak, at an altitude of 6035. It is a thriving community with tourism, manufacturing, sports, high technology, and the military ranking as key industries within their economy. With the population of El Paso County surpassing the 500,000 mark, the Springs is ranked as the 80th largest city in the US and the 18th fastest growing. The Springs came in third as one of the “Best Cities for Relocating Families”.

The 2005 ranking combined traditional factors such as tax rates, average home cost, and home appreciation, along with variables that affect quality of life and cost of living after a move. These variables include the ability to qualify in in-state tuition, service levels of local utilities, volunteerism, and auto taxes.

Manufacturers, high-tech and software companies, non-profit organizations, and a multitude of other businesses have assembled in the area. As a result, tens of thousands of highly educated and technically skilled newcomers are seeking the quality of life and recreational opportunities available to residents. Colorado Springs is also home to five military installations: Fort Carson, Peterson Air Force Base, the North American Defense Command (NORAD), NorthCOM, and Schriever Air Force Base.

Colorado Springs boasts 3.2 million labor force within an hour radius, and 27 Fortune 500 Companies. Living in the fresh air of the Rocky Mountains encourages a healthier quality of life, attracting a stronger workforce with greater profits. Colorado Springs sources of labor include former military personnel, military dependents, retirees, college students, and commuters from other Colorado cities. Also worth mentioning there is a low level of unionization throughout Colorado.

The United States Air Force Academy is located on the north end of the Springs. This military presence continues to grow, making the Springs the nation’s military space capital. The Colorado Springs Airport is located on the east side of the Springs. The airport is within easy driving distance to various tourist attractions, including 14 major ski areas.

With the passing of Referendum C in the fall of 2005, Colorado will be able to invest more money into K-12 education, higher education, and specialized research centers. The money for this program comes from a state fund, not higher taxes. This insures that Colorado’s children will continue to receive a quality education. For more information regarding Colorado Springs schools, and local attractions go to www.par.com/public/cospgs.asp. Please visit www.kathyflood.com for additional information about this community, and everything you need to buy or sell a home.

Over 300 days of sunshine each year, support abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Colorado Springs has extensive parks and open spaces with trails that wind through magnificent rock formations and shady mountain forests – perfect for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The rapids of the Arkansas are prime for river rafting tours that winds through the Royal Gorge. Explore Pikes Peak on a guided bike ride or a hot air balloon ride. Fishing, camping, golfing and rock climbing are also available in Colorado Springs for the whole family.

A vibrant mix of uses energizes downtown Colorado Springs. Any time of day or night, the streets are lively. Hundreds of businesses, including plenty of unique, locally-owned shops and restaurants, as well as the most popular night spots in town, make downtown Colorado Springs a prime place to spend a day shopping, or enjoy a night out on the town. Experience exceptional cuisine at Colorado Spring's downtown restaurants including, Antler's Grille, Blue Star, Theayton's Tejon Street Grill or Sonterra Grill. Extend your stay at one of Colorado Springs many hotels such as Cheyenne Mountain Resort, Colorado Springs Travelodge, Doubletree Colorado Springs, and Apollo Park Executive Suites.

Colorado Springs is also known for its rich and diverse cultural activities. Learn about the city at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum and Pikes Peak Heritage Center. Dive deep 1,000 feet into a gold mine or take an historic train ride. View classic and modern art at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center and Smokebrush Gallery. These attractions, activities and historic locations await you in Colorado Springs.