Welcome to the foot of Pikes Peak
Colorado Springs consistently ranks among the best places to live in America — and thousands of newcomers arrive every year for the mountains, the climate, the economy and the lifestyle. This is the honest newcomer's guide: what to know before you move, and how to settle in well once you're here.
Evergreen guide. We write what stays true; prices, hours, rules and venue details change constantly — verify current specifics with official sources before relying on them.
Before you move
Why people move here
The real draws — and honest trade-offs.
Neighborhoods
From downtown to Briargate to the west side.
Cost of living
Housing, budgets and what's changed.
Jobs & economy
The military, tech, aerospace and more.
Life here
The outdoors
Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods and beyond.
Weather & altitude
300 days of sun, and the mile-plus elevation.
Schools & education
Districts, colleges and choices.
Getting settled
The first-90-days checklist.
Things to do
Attractions, food and culture.
FAQ
Newcomer questions answered.