Colorado is a beautiful state with stunning natural scenery, a vibrant culture, and a booming economy. However, it is not for everyone. In fact, some people may find it hard to live in Colorado for various reasons. Here are seven of them:
1. High Cost of Living
Colorado is one of the most expensive states to live in the US. According to the US Bureau of Economic Analysis, Colorado’s cost of living index was 108.6 in 2020, which means it was 8.6% higher than the national average of 100. The main factors that contribute to the high cost of living are housing, transportation, and health care.
For example, the median home value in Colorado was $463,800 in 2020, compared to the national median of $266,300, according to Zillow. Similarly, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Denver was $1,540 in 2020, compared to the national average of $1,098, according to Apartment List.
2. Crowded and Congested
Colorado is one of the fastest-growing states in the US. According to the US Census Bureau, Colorado’s population increased by 14.8% from 2010 to 2020, reaching 5.8 million people. This rapid growth has led to overcrowding and congestion in many areas, especially along the Front Range, where most of the population lives.
For instance, Denver ranked as the 12th most congested city in the US in 2020, according to the INRIX Global Traffic Scorecard, with drivers spending an average of 36 hours per year in traffic. Moreover, the influx of people has also put pressure on the infrastructure, public services, and natural resources, creating challenges for the environment and quality of life.
3. Harsh Weather
Colorado is known for its unpredictable and extreme weather. The state experiences four distinct seasons, with wide variations in temperature, precipitation, and sunshine. For example, Colorado can have snowstorms in May and heat waves in October.
The average annual snowfall in Colorado is 67 inches, which is more than double the national average of 28 inches, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Additionally, Colorado is prone to natural disasters such as wildfires, floods, droughts, hailstorms, and tornadoes. For instance, in 2020, Colorado had the three largest wildfires in its history, burning over 600,000 acres of land and destroying hundreds of homes.
4. High Altitude
Colorado is the highest state in the US, with an average elevation of 6,800 feet above sea level. The highest point in Colorado is Mount Elbert, which stands at 14,440 feet above sea level. While the high altitude offers spectacular views and opportunities for outdoor recreation, it also poses some health risks and challenges for newcomers and visitors.
For example, the high altitude can cause altitude sickness, which is a condition that occurs when the body does not get enough oxygen. The symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Moreover, the high altitude can also affect the hydration, digestion, and metabolism of the body, requiring more water, food, and rest.
5. Strict Laws and Regulations
Colorado is a state that values its independence and freedom, but it also has some strict laws and regulations that may not suit everyone’s preferences and lifestyles. For example, Colorado has some of the toughest gun laws in the US, requiring background checks, magazine limits, and safe storage of firearms.
Colorado also has some of the highest taxes on alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana in the US, according to the Tax Foundation. Furthermore, Colorado has some of the most complex and controversial water laws in the US, based on the doctrine of prior appropriation, which grants water rights to the first user of a water source, regardless of the location or need.
6. Competitive Job Market
Colorado has a strong and diverse economy, with major industries such as aerospace, biotechnology, tourism, and agriculture. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Colorado’s unemployment rate was 6.4% in 2020, which was lower than the national average of 8.1%. However, the job market in Colorado is also very competitive and demanding, as there are more qualified and educated workers than available jobs.
According to the US Census Bureau, Colorado had the second-highest percentage of adults with a bachelor’s degree or higher in 2019, at 41.2%, compared to the national average of 32.1%. Moreover, the average annual wage in Colorado was $59,810 in 2020, which was higher than the national average of $56,310, but also reflected the higher cost of living.
7. Limited Diversity
Colorado is a state that celebrates its diversity and inclusivity, but it also has some limitations and challenges in terms of its demographic and cultural composition. According to the US Census Bureau, Colorado’s population was 86.9% white, 4.6% black, 3.8% Asian, 1.6% Native American, and 3.1% other races in 2020. The Hispanic or Latino population was 22%, which was higher than the national average of 18.5%.
However, the racial and ethnic diversity in Colorado is not evenly distributed across the state, as most of the minority groups are concentrated in urban areas, while rural areas are predominantly white. Furthermore, Colorado’s culture is heavily influenced by its history, geography, and politics, which may not appeal to everyone’s tastes and values.
Conclusion
Colorado is a wonderful state with many attractions and advantages, but it is not a perfect place for everyone. Some people may find it hard to adapt to the high cost of living, crowded and congested conditions, harsh weather, high altitude, strict laws and regulations, competitive job market, and limited diversity in Colorado. Therefore, before moving to Colorado, it is important to weigh the pros and cons and consider the personal and professional goals and expectations. Colorado may be a dream destination for some, but a nightmare for others.