Set at the bottom of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder, Colorado, has become one of the most desirable cities in the entire country. It combines natural beauty, outdoor recreation, plenty of arts and music, and manages to keep relaxed energy. If you’re thinking about relocating to this exciting city, then read on! We’ve got your top seven things to know before relocating.
Boulder is a very desirable place to live, so naturally, it comes with a high price tag. The median home price is just under $1M. Of course, real estate prices vary depending on the neighborhood, but the cost of living in Boulder is also quite high. The city skews above national averages in almost every category, save for healthcare and transportation. A move here requires understanding that your quality of life will increase, in parallel with your cost of living.
If you’re someone who plans on living and working in Boulder’s downtown, then a car might not be necessary. Boulder has a pretty robust public transportation system, which includes over 170 bus routes and 12 rail lines. The services are efficient and well-maintained, so you’ll have no trouble commuting at affordable rates. However, if you’re someone who enjoys going to the mountains, or venturing outside of the city for weekend getaways, then a car is probably necessary. Boulder’s transport to the mountains can be limited, so consider this when making transportation decisions.
If being within walking distance to some stores and restaurants is at the top of your list, then that’s certainly an option! Downtown Boulder, Mapleton Hill, and University Hill are all within walking distance of amenities.
People in Boulder are highly athletic — and how could they not be, with so many exciting things to do and such beautiful scenery! Over the past several years, Boulder has made the list — if not topped it — of the fittest cities in America. People here have both the means and the settings necessary to enjoy fitness. There are dozens of fantastic hiking trails in the city’s mountains, including Boulder Canyon Trail and those in Chautauqua Park. You’ll also find mountain biking trails for bikers of all levels. This is a very popular sport in Boulder, largely due to the fact that the mountain views are so spectacular!
And of course, perhaps its best-known activity is skiing. There are several major ski resorts near Boulder, boasting dozens of trails for all levels. The powder is fresh, the air is crisp, and the sun shines quite frequently — what’s not to love!
If you’re looking to meet people through outdoor activities, then Boulder is a great option. There are several running and fitness clubs throughout the city, as well as outdoor adventure groups. It’s an easy place to make friends with shared passions!
The University of Colorado Boulder is home to over 33,000 students and is a highly-ranked research university. The campus stretches over 600 acres and is a defining aspect of the city’s physical and cultural identities. “The Hill” (AKA University Hill) is Boulder’s funkiest neighborhood, full of shops, restaurants, galleries, and more. Living in this area means constant activity, and, of course, many college students. Check out concerts at The Fox, or the unique poetry at Innisfree Bookshop. Boulder’s oldest restaurant, The Sink, has been open since 1923 and is a Hill staple for pizza and burgers. You’ll also find several trendy shops where you can dress like a local: Meow Meow and The Root of the Hill are just a couple of fun options. Living near a college campus can be very fun, but it might not be for everyone. Consider its placement when choosing your Boulder neighborhood.
Unless you’re looking for a tropical climate, you really can’t beat Boulder’s four-season weather. There are over 300 days of sun per year, which makes for crystal-clear views of the area’s mountains and vegetation. With an average of 89 inches of snowfall per year, Boulder certainly falls above many US cities — which makes sense, considering its a major ski destination. Warm summer, crisp falls, snowy winters, and bright springs make for excellent seasonal balance. Boulder also does a good job of keeping the excitement going all year long, so you won’t find any shortage of community activities, even during the coldest months.
Boulder has some of the best culinary talents in all of Colorado, which is why its restaurant scene evolves constantly. You’ll find no shortage of cuisines and tastes for every palette. A few favorites? For an upscale American dining experience at the top of a mountain, head to Flagstaff House. The Chef’s Tasting Menu will take you on a culinary journey, and includes some of the city’s freshest ingredients. For locally-sourced cuisine and a robust wine list, there’s The Boulder Cork. Cork Bar’s knowledgeable staff will help you find the perfect wine pairing for your meal. When it comes to brunch, Boulder doesn’t mess around. The Buff is an affordable brunch option that serves up large portions of American classics. This is the spot to go after a long night out on the town!
Boulder is home to some of the best public schools in the entire state, so families certainly have their pick. Eisenhower and Bear Creek Elementary Schools are both A-rated options with dedicated staff. For middle school, there’s the A-rated Southern Hill Middle School, which prepares students for solid educations at one of the A+-rated high schools: Boulder High School and Fairview High School. The Boulder Valley School District is a huge draw for people with families, or who aspire to have them, so consider this strength when assessing Boulder.
Interested in learning more about Boulder’s real estate scene? Contact The Byrne Group for more information about luxury homes for sale in Boulder.
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2500 Arapahoe Ave, Ste 210
Boulder, CO 80302
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