Why Remote Workers Are Fleeing Cities for These Colorado Suburbs: Are You Missing Out?
As remote work has become more permanent in many industries, professionals are taking advantage of the flexibility to relocate to areas that offer more space, better quality of life, and access to nature. Colorado has become a leading destination for remote workers, with its blend of natural beauty, thriving cities, and rapidly improving infrastructure. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best suburbs for remote workers, diving deeper into real-world examples, specific neighborhoods, and key factors to consider when relocating to Colorado for a remote work lifestyle.
Why Remote Workers Are Flocking to Colorado Suburbs
Remote workers are increasingly moving to suburban and rural areas to take advantage of larger homes, better outdoor access, and more relaxed lifestyles. Colorado’s appeal lies in its unique combination of a thriving job market, particularly in the tech and startup sectors, and its proximity to nature. This makes it a popular destination for remote professionals who no longer need to live near urban office hubs but still want access to amenities, culture, and career opportunities.
Example of Impact:
Take the city of Denver, which saw a significant outflow of residents during the COVID-19 pandemic as remote work became the norm. Many of these professionals relocated to nearby cities like Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins to enjoy quieter environments without sacrificing the lifestyle benefits offered by a major metro area. The exodus from Denver resulted in more competitive housing markets in these regions, with prices climbing rapidly. Despite this, many remote workers felt the trade-off for a better work-life balance was worth the higher housing costs.
As remote work trends continue, towns and suburbs that may have previously been considered too remote for daily commuting are now hotbeds for new homebuyers, especially those seeking outdoor space, peace, and flexibility.
Top Suburbs in Colorado for Remote Work
1. Fort Collins: Tech-Savvy and Nature-Friendly
Why Remote Workers Love It:
Fort Collins has emerged as one of Colorado’s most appealing cities for remote professionals. The presence of Colorado State University ensures the city has a thriving, youthful culture, while the tech sector is booming with opportunities for remote jobs. Fast internet infrastructure is a major draw for tech workers who need reliable connectivity, while the city’s proximity to outdoor attractions like the Cache la Poudre River and Horsetooth Reservoir offer abundant recreational opportunities. Remote workers living in Fort Collins can take a lunch break by hiking nearby trails or kayaking on the reservoir.
Real Estate Insights:
In 2024, the real estate market in Fort Collins remains competitive, with median home prices rising to $605,000. Although prices are higher than in some other suburbs, Fort Collins offers a unique balance of urban amenities and outdoor access. Example: In the popular neighborhood of Old Town, residents can enjoy a vibrant downtown with cafes, breweries, and shops, while being minutes from bike paths and outdoor trails. For those seeking more space, areas like Fossil Creek provide larger homes with easy access to the city center.
Expanded Pros:
Proximity to Colorado State University ensures a vibrant culture with constant innovation.
The city regularly ranks as one of the best places to live in the U.S. due to its strong job market and recreational activities.
Case Study: The startup community is particularly strong in Fort Collins, making it ideal for tech-savvy remote workers. Several remote professionals who moved from Silicon Valley to Fort Collins during the pandemic noted how they could continue working for major tech companies while enjoying a quieter, less hectic life.
Expanded Cons:
The influx of remote workers has driven home prices higher, making it more difficult for first-time homebuyers to break into the market.
Neighborhoods closer to the university can experience higher student traffic, which may detract from the quiet suburban atmosphere some remote workers seek.
2. Colorado Springs: Affordable and Scenic
Why Remote Workers Love It:
Colorado Springs offers an affordable alternative to more expensive markets like Boulder and Denver while still providing easy access to stunning natural beauty. The city has a growing job market, with many professionals working in cybersecurity, defense, and tech. Remote workers are attracted by Colorado Springs’ lower housing costs, its proximity to outdoor attractions like Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, and the relatively mild climate. The city's extensive network of trails and parks makes it ideal for those looking to balance work with recreational activities.
Real Estate Insights:
The average home price in Colorado Springs is approximately $486,000 in 2024, making it significantly more affordable than Boulder or Denver. Neighborhoods like Briargate are popular among families and remote workers, offering spacious homes at reasonable prices and access to highly rated schools.
Expanded Pros:
The lower cost of living makes Colorado Springs attractive for remote workers, particularly those with families who need larger homes.
Example: Colorado Springs has also been drawing in tech workers who are relocating from higher-cost markets like Seattle and San Francisco. These professionals appreciate the city's rapidly improving infrastructure, including fiber-optic internet access, which is available in most areas.
Expanded Cons:
Some areas of Colorado Springs still experience internet connectivity issues, especially in more rural parts.
The city’s rapid growth has resulted in more traffic, especially in northern neighborhoods like Briargate, which have seen increased development.
3. Boulder: Luxury for Remote Workers
Why Remote Workers Love It:
Boulder is synonymous with luxury, health, and sustainability. The city’s thriving tech scene, focus on outdoor living, and proximity to world-class hiking and biking trails make it a top choice for high-income remote workers. The presence of several tech startups and a strong commitment to green living have made Boulder a unique blend of modernity and nature, perfect for those looking to work from home in an environmentally conscious, wellness-oriented community.
Real Estate Insights:
Boulder’s average home price in 2024 is approximately $1.2 million, making it one of the most expensive areas in the state. Example: Neighborhoods like Mapleton Hill are known for their historic charm and high price tags, while more affordable areas like Gunbarrel offer spacious homes just a short drive from the city center.
Expanded Pros:
Boulder's tech and startup community continues to thrive, attracting remote workers in fields like digital marketing, software development, and health tech.
The city’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its green building standards, and many homes come equipped with energy-efficient technologies.
Case Study: Several remote workers who moved to Boulder from urban tech hubs have cited the city's wellness culture and access to nature as major draws. One software engineer remarked that moving to Boulder gave him “the best of both worlds: a high-paying tech job and the ability to hike in the Flatirons during lunch breaks.”
Expanded Cons:
Boulder's real estate market is highly competitive, and it’s common for homes to sell above asking price, making it difficult for even high-income remote workers to secure property.
Limited inventory often means fewer options for those seeking large homes or outdoor space.
4. Mountain Towns: Escape to the Rockies
Why Remote Workers Love It:
Colorado’s mountain towns offer remote workers a chance to truly disconnect from city life while still maintaining a work-from-home lifestyle. Towns like Steamboat Springs, Telluride, and Durango have become remote work havens for professionals who want to combine their workdays with outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.
Real Estate Insights:
Mountain towns like Telluride offer luxury real estate, with home prices averaging around $1.5 million in 2024. Meanwhile, towns like Leadville and Buena Vista provide more affordable alternatives for those seeking a mountain lifestyle without the ski resort price tag.
Expanded Pros:
Access to some of the best outdoor recreation in the country, including skiing, hiking, and fishing.
Tight-knit communities where remote workers can easily integrate and enjoy a slower pace of life.
Example: Many remote professionals who work for companies in industries like outdoor gear or travel writing have relocated to mountain towns to be closer to their field of work. These towns offer a unique opportunity to live and work in the heart of the Rockies while maintaining connections to larger tech hubs through remote work.
Expanded Cons:
Some mountain towns lack reliable high-speed internet, which can be a major drawback for remote workers who need stable connectivity for video calls and online collaboration.
The cost of living in popular ski towns like Aspen or Telluride can be prohibitively expensive for some remote workers, especially those in non-tech industries.
Features Remote Workers Need in a Home
With remote work becoming a permanent part of many professionals’ lives, certain home features have become essential. These include:
Dedicated Workspaces: More than just an office, remote workers need quiet, dedicated spaces with plenty of natural light. Many remote professionals also prefer homes with multiple rooms that can be converted into offices, allowing for greater flexibility.
Fast Internet Access: Reliable high-speed internet is critical, particularly for professionals in tech, marketing, or finance. Areas like Fort Collins and Colorado Springs are known for their excellent connectivity, while some rural mountain towns may struggle with consistent service.
Outdoor Living Spaces: With more time spent at home, features like patios, decks, and access to large yards or nearby parks have become increasingly important for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Current Housing Market Trends in Colorado for Remote Workers
The housing market in Colorado has experienced significant fluctuations due to the rise in remote work. The demand for suburban and rural homes has skyrocketed, pushing up prices in many areas. Example: In Boulder, home prices have risen by...nearly 40% over the past five years, driven by increased demand from remote workers who want to be close to outdoor activities and enjoy Boulder’s unique mix of luxury and convenience.. This trend is mirrored in other suburban and rural areas across Colorado, with cities like Fort Collins and Colorado Springs seeing similar spikes in home prices due to their appeal to remote workers.
Additionally, the rise in interest rates has cooled some segments of the market, particularly in more expensive regions like Boulder and mountain towns. However, suburban areas such as Colorado Springs remain attractive due to their relative affordability compared to Denver or Boulder. Experts predict that while prices may stabilize in some areas, the demand for homes that cater to remote lifestyles will continue to drive the market.
How to Choose the Best Neighborhood for Your Remote Work Lifestyle
When selecting a neighborhood for remote work, consider several factors beyond just the price of the home. Proximity to amenities, access to high-speed internet, and the availability of outdoor spaces can significantly enhance your quality of life as a remote worker.
Internet Speed: In today’s digital age, fast, reliable internet is non-negotiable for most remote workers. Before settling on a neighborhood, check the local internet providers and ensure that high-speed fiber or broadband is available.
Access to Amenities: Even if you work from home, it’s essential to have access to local amenities like grocery stores, healthcare facilities, gyms, and recreational areas. Suburbs like Fort Collins and Colorado Springs excel in offering both suburban tranquility and easy access to urban conveniences.
Outdoor Access: For many remote workers, the appeal of Colorado lies in its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Consider how close your home is to parks, hiking trails, and other outdoor activities that can help balance work and relaxation.
Conclusion
Colorado continues to attract remote workers due to its unparalleled combination of natural beauty, vibrant communities, and a growing tech sector. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly neighborhood in Fort Collins, the affordability of Colorado Springs, the luxury of Boulder, or the tranquility of a mountain town, Colorado’s diverse regions offer something for every remote professional. As the housing market adjusts to the demand for remote work-friendly homes, now is the time to explore the best options for creating a work-life balance that aligns with your personal and professional goals.
