Moving to Colorado Springs: Everything You Need to Know

Whether you are relocating for work, retiring to a quieter pace of life, or moving your family closer to the mountains, Colorado Springs is one of the most popular destinations in the state. But planning a move to a new city involves more than picking a house – you need to understand the cost of living, find the right neighborhood, and line up reliable movers who can handle the logistics. This guide covers everything you need to make your move to Colorado Springs as smooth as possible.

Why People Are Moving to Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs has been one of the fastest-growing cities in Colorado for the past decade, and the reasons are straightforward. The city offers a lower cost of living than Denver, direct access to outdoor recreation, a strong job market anchored by military installations and a growing tech sector, and a quality of life that consistently ranks among the best in the state.

The combination of mountain proximity, over 300 days of sunshine per year, and a more affordable housing market compared to Denver makes Colorado Springs especially attractive to young families, military families, remote workers, and retirees.

Neighborhoods to Consider

Colorado Springs is a sprawling city with distinct neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and budgets. Here is a quick look at some of the most popular areas:

• Briargate and Northgate. These north-side communities are known for newer construction, highly-rated schools, and easy access to shopping and dining along Powers Boulevard and Interquest Parkway. They are popular with families and professionals working in the tech corridor.
• Old Colorado City and Westside. If you prefer a walkable neighborhood with character, the Westside offers historic homes, local shops, galleries, and proximity to Garden of the Gods and Manitou Springs.
• Broadmoor and Cheyenne Mountain. The south-central area around the Broadmoor resort is one of the city’s most established and desirable neighborhoods. Larger homes, mature landscaping, and mountain views come with a higher price point.
• Fountain and Security-Widefield. Located south of the city near Fort Carson, these communities offer more affordable housing and are popular with military families stationed at the base.
• Black Forest. A semi-rural area north of the city with larger lots, horse properties, and a quiet atmosphere. Black Forest appeals to buyers who want space without leaving the Colorado Springs metro.
• Monument and Palmer Lake. Technically separate towns north of Colorado Springs, Monument and Palmer Lake offer small-town living with easy access to both Colorado Springs and the southern Denver metro via I-25.

The right neighborhood depends on your priorities – commute, school district, outdoor access, home size, and budget. Driving through areas in person before committing is always worth the time.

Cost of Living Overview

One of the biggest questions for anyone considering a move to Colorado Springs is how far their money will go compared to where they currently live.

• Housing is the largest variable. As of 2026, the median home price in Colorado Springs sits lower than Denver, making it an attractive option for buyers who are priced out of the Front Range’s more expensive markets. Rental prices follow a similar pattern – you get more space for less than you would in Denver or Boulder.
• Utilities in Colorado Springs are moderate. Colorado Springs Utilities is a city-owned provider covering electric, gas, water, and wastewater, which simplifies billing and keeps rates competitive.
• Groceries and everyday expenses are roughly in line with national averages. Dining out tends to be slightly less expensive than Denver.
• Transportation costs are manageable if you own a car, but public transit options are limited compared to larger metros. Most residents drive, and commute times within the city are reasonable outside of peak hours on I-25.

Overall, Colorado Springs offers a noticeably lower cost of living than Denver while still providing access to the same mountain lifestyle and Front Range amenities.

Planning Your Move: Timelines and Checklists

A well-planned move reduces stress and prevents costly last-minute decisions. Here is a general timeline to follow:

8 to 6 weeks before your move:

• Research and contact moving companies for estimates
• Sort through your belongings and start decluttering
• Notify your landlord or list your current home if selling
• Start a moving binder or digital folder for important documents

4 to 6 weeks out:

• Book your moving company and confirm the date
• Begin packing non-essential items – seasonal clothing, books, decor
• Arrange mail forwarding through USPS
• Transfer or set up utilities at your new address

2 to 4 weeks out:

• Pack room by room, labeling boxes clearly
• Confirm details with your mover – arrival time, access instructions, specialty items
• Arrange school transfers, medical record transfers, and vehicle registration plans

Moving week:

• Pack a go-bag with essentials you will need on day one (toiletries, chargers, medications, important documents, a change of clothes)
• Do a final walkthrough of your current home
• Confirm payment and tipping plan for your movers

If you are moving from out of state, the timeline may need to start earlier – especially if you are coordinating a home sale and purchase simultaneously.

Hiring a Moving Company vs DIY

For a local move within the Colorado Springs area, some homeowners consider renting a truck and doing it themselves. For longer moves or larger households, hiring a professional moving company almost always saves time, reduces risk, and eliminates the physical strain.

Here is how the two options compare:

• DIY moving works best for small apartments, short distances, and people with a flexible schedule and willing friends. You save on labor costs but take on all the risk of loading, driving, unloading, and potential damage.
• Hiring professional movers makes sense for larger homes, families with heavy or fragile items, long-distance relocations, and anyone who wants the move done efficiently. A licensed, insured moving company covers the liability, provides the equipment, and handles the heavy lifting.

When choosing a mover, look for a company with a strong local track record, verified reviews, and transparent pricing. In Colorado, legitimate movers carry a PUC number and appropriate insurance. For interstate moves, a USDOT number is required.

If you are moving to Colorado Springs from another state, working with a long-distance moving company that knows the area can save you significant hassle – especially when navigating access to mountain communities, altitude considerations for electronics and vehicles, and seasonal weather.

What to Expect on Moving Day

Moving day goes more smoothly when you know what to expect.

• Before the crew arrives: Have everything packed and ready. Clear pathways through your home. Disassemble anything you can. Set aside items you are transporting yourself (valuables, medications, personal documents).
• When the movers arrive: Walk them through the home and point out fragile items, heavy pieces, and anything that needs special handling. Confirm the destination address and any access notes for the new home (gate codes, elevator reservations, parking restrictions).
• During the move: Stay available to answer questions. The crew will handle loading in the most efficient order – typically starting with large furniture and appliances, then stacking boxes around them.
• At the new home: Direct movers to the right rooms as they unload. Check off your inventory as items come in. Do a walkthrough before the crew leaves to confirm everything arrived.
• After the move: Unpack essentials first – beds, kitchen, bathroom. Take your time with the rest. It is also a good idea to update your address with the DMV, voter registration, and any subscriptions or accounts tied to your old address.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Colorado Springs a good place to live?

Colorado Springs consistently ranks among the best places to live in the western United States. The city offers a strong job market, affordable housing relative to Denver, easy access to outdoor recreation, and over 300 days of sunshine a year. It is especially popular with families, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts.

How far is Colorado Springs from Denver?

Colorado Springs is approximately 70 miles south of Denver along I-25. The drive takes roughly one hour to one hour and fifteen minutes depending on traffic. Many people live in Colorado Springs and commute to the south Denver metro for work.

What is the best time of year to move to Colorado Springs?

Spring and early fall offer the most pleasant weather for moving. Summer is peak season – warmer and busier – while winter moves are possible but can involve icy roads, especially if you are coming through mountain passes. If you are flexible, booking a late September or October move gives you good weather and lower demand.

Do I need a car in Colorado Springs?

Yes. Public transportation exists but is limited compared to larger cities. Most residents rely on a personal vehicle for commuting, errands, and accessing trailheads and recreation areas outside the city core.

How do I find reliable movers for my move to Colorado Springs?

Look for a company with a strong review history, a Colorado PUC number, and transparent pricing. Request an in-home or virtual estimate rather than relying on a phone quote. For long-distance moves, verify the company’s USDOT number and ask about their claims process.

Ready to Make the Move?

Colorado Springs offers the kind of lifestyle that keeps attracting new residents year after year. When you are ready to make it official, having the right moving partner makes all the difference. Fatboy Slims Moving Company has helped hundreds of families relocate to and within Colorado Springs – with transparent pricing, trained crews, and the kind of service that has earned us over 800 five-star reviews. Get your free moving estimate and take the first step.