The 7 Most Affordable Places to Live in Colorado in 2025

April 22, 2025

5 minutes

Home prices in Colorado have jumped 42.5% over the last three years. This rise is increasing worries about affordability. While Denver and Boulder remain expensive, several cities still offer budget-friendly housing without compromising quality of life.

Places like Pueblo, Lamar, and Greeley provide lower home prices, strong job markets, and a great lifestyle. This blog will explore 7 of the most affordable places to live in Colorado, helping you find the best fit for your budget.

The 7 Most Affordable Places to Live in Colorado

We considered factors like home prices, rent, and the cost of living to provide you with a comprehensive list of affordable cities in Colorado.

1. Greeley

Located about 50 miles north of Denver, Greeley is known for its agricultural roots and growing economy. The median home price in Greeley is approximately $415,000. Moreover, the city's median rent is $1,650, which is 18% lower than the national average.

Greeley's economy is diverse, with sectors like education, healthcare, and manufacturing showing excellent growth. The presence of the University of Northern Colorado adds to the city's educational and cultural offerings.

Plus, you can enjoy local attractions such as the Colorado Model Railroad Museum and Island Grove Regional Park. The city also hosts various community events and festivals throughout the year.

2. Grand Junction

Grand Junction, situated near the Utah border, is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a more relaxed lifestyle. The median home price in Grand Junction is around $400,000, making it a reasonably affordable option in Colorado.

With proximity to the Colorado National Monument and numerous hiking and biking trails, residents have ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city also has a growing arts scene and hosts various cultural events.

Besides this, the city's economy is supported by sectors such as healthcare, education, and tourism. Grand Junction is also known for its wineries and agricultural products.

3. Pueblo

Located along the Arkansas River, Pueblo offers both a rich cultural heritage and affordable living. The city is 6% more affordable than the national average, and the median home price is $228,500.

Pueblo is historically known for steel production, its economy has diversified into sectors like healthcare, education, and renewable energy.

You can enjoy attractions such as the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk and the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center. The city also hosts the annual Colorado State Fair, drawing visitors from across the state.

4. Lakewood

Lakewood offers a unique blend of suburban living with easy access to Denver's urban amenities. The median home price in Lakewood stands at $536,000, which reflects an 8.4% decrease from the previous year.

Lakewood has numerous parks, recreational facilities, and cultural attractions that improve its appeal. The city has a close-knit community. It provides various educational opportunities through local schools and nearby places like Colorado Christian University.

Despite being close to Denver's hustle and bustle, Lakewood maintains a family-friendly atmosphere that attracts several homebuyers.

5. Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs remains one of the most sought-after cities in Colorado due to its affordability. With a median home price of around $450,000, it offers a range of housing options suitable for various budgets.

Moreover, monthly utility costs are 8% lower than the national average. The city is also renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including Pikes Peak and numerous hiking trails.

The local economy is robust, supported by military installations and a growing tech sector. Colorado Springs combines affordability, amenities, and outdoor fun. This blend keeps attracting new residents seeking a fulfilling lifestyle.

6. Lamar

Lamar is often overlooked but offers significant affordability, with a median home price of about $170,000. The median rent in the city is $1,950.

Lamar has small-town charm and strong agricultural roots. The city also benefits from its position as a regional trade center. Residents enjoy a calm lifestyle, distant from the chaos of bigger cities.

Moreover, the cost of living is 13% lower than the national average. This makes it appealing for people on fixed incomes or those wanting to stretch their budget further. Lamar's community spirit and events make it a friendly place.

7. Fort Collins

Home to Colorado State University, Fort Collins has a vibrant college-town atmosphere with family-friendly amenities. The average home price is $545,000, which remains competitive compared to larger urban areas like Denver.

In addition, the city has a low unemployment rate of 3.70%. Fort Collins's economy is supported by education, manufacturing, and a growing tech sector. Major employers include the university and various tech companies.

Moreover, Fort Collins is famous for its craft breweries, historic downtown, and outdoor fun in the Rocky Mountains nearby.

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Home Search Made Easy: 4 Helpful Tips

Navigating Colorado's housing market can be tough. But, with the right strategy, you can find a home that suits your budget. Here are some tips to assist you:

  • Determine Your Budget: Assess your financial situation, including income, savings, and expenses, to establish a realistic budget. Getting pre-qualified for a mortgage can provide clarity on what you can afford.
  • Research Different Neighborhoods: Explore various areas to find neighborhoods that offer affordable housing options while meeting your lifestyle needs.
  • Work with a Real Estate Agent: An experienced agent can offer valuable insights into the local market and assist in finding homes within your budget.
  • Consider Other Financing Options: Look into state and local programs that provide down payment help or better loan terms for first-time buyers.

Bottom Line: Ready to Move to Colorado—But Smarter?

Finding an affordable place to live in Colorado is only half the battle. The real win? Keeping more of your money in your pocket—before, during, and after you buy. That’s exactly where reAlpha changes the game. With 0% commission on home purchases, you can save thousands—money you can use for renovations, a better down payment, or simply breathing room in your budget.

But even with the right home, buying can still feel overwhelming. That’s why Be My Neighbor exists—not just as a mortgage broker, but as a community-first support system. You get expert help that feels like guidance, not sales pressure. Real answers. Smarter loan options. And people who actually listen.

  • Commission-free home buying with reAlpha
  • Personalized mortgage support from Be My Neighbor

Because moving to Colorado shouldn’t just be affordable. It should feel empowering.

Start your journey with reAlpha—and walk it with Be My Neighbor.

If you're also trying to stretch your budget without compromising on safety, don’t miss our guide to the safest places to live in Colorado—because peace of mind shouldn’t come at a premium.

And if you're still weighing your options, wondering whether to rent or buy, you're not the only one asking that question right now. Our Rent vs. Buy comparison breaks down the pros, cons, and long-term trade-offs—so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and a plan that fits your life.

FAQs

Which is the cheapest place to live in Colorado?

Lamar is one of the most affordable places in Colorado, with a median home price of around $170,000. It offers a low cost of living and a quiet, small-town lifestyle.

Is Colorado still affordable to live in?

While home prices have risen, cities like Pueblo, Greeley, and Grand Junction remain affordable. Smart home-buying platforms like Realpha can help cut the 3% buyer’s agent commission. This makes living in Colorado more affordable.

Which city in Colorado has the lowest property taxes?

Costilla County has some of the lowest property tax rates in Colorado, averaging 0.27% of a home's value. Lower taxes can lower long-term homeownership costs in affordable cities such as Alamosa and Trinidad.

Save Big when you Buy a Home with reAlpha!

Discover how our all-in-one homebuying platform can increase your buying power and put money back in your pocket. Start your journey today!

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Article by

DA
Daniel Ares

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.