The physical labor of getting your belongings from one house to another is exhausting enough. But it’s not the only thing that makes moving stressful. We don’t often hear about it, but big change doesn’t just involve physical work – it requires lots of mental labor, too.
Getting to know your new area can take months of work, especially if you don’t have local friends and contacts.
Which schools are best? Where can I find the best groceries? What is there to do nearby my house?
These are all questions best answered by locals, and with more than a decade of providing service for homeowners in the Colorado Springs area, we know it like the back of our hands. Which is why we’ve compiled a list of 11 local secrets that every potential resident should know before deciding to move to Colorado Springs. Before making your big decision, read this blog post to find out if moving to Colorado Springs is right for you!
1) Colorado Springs Doesn’t Get Much Snow
Contrary to popular belief, Colorado Springs doesn’t get that much snow. In fact, the city averages only about 20 inches of snow per year. So if you’re moving from a place with heavy winters, you might be surprised by how little snow you see in Colorado Springs.
However, this lack of snowfall doesn’t mean that the city is devoid of winter activities. There are still plenty of things to do, and residents can go skiing or snowboarding just a couple of hours outside the city. You can also go ice skating at the outdoor rink in Acacia Park, or take a stroll through the Garden of the Gods when it’s blanketed in snow.
If you’re trying to move to a place with less snow than where you currently live, Colorado Springs is a contender. Colorado Springs tends to see just one major snowstorm each year. Most of the time, snow melts quickly and doesn’t last long enough to make driving dangerous.
2) The Dry Climate Takes Getting Used To
If you’re moving from a place with high humidity, the dry climate in Colorado Springs will take some getting used to. The lack of moisture can cause your skin and hair to feel dry, and some people say the lack of humidity can make it difficult to breathe.
To combat the effects of the dry climate, it’s important to drink lots of water and use plenty of moisturizing products. Many residents also invest in a humidifier. It’s worth keeping in mind that if you have asthma or another respiratory condition, the dry climate might make your symptoms worse.
3) Weather Can Change Suddenly
Newcomers from areas with stable and temperate climates might think seasons seem to change more quickly after moving to Colorado Springs. The weather here often changes suddenly, which can be jarring for those who aren’t used to it.
If you have a garden, this can make it more difficult to know when to plant new seeds. Every gardener should know this little secret: wait until after Mother’s Day to transplant your seedlings or plant flowers! Where it can snow as late as June, Colorado Springs isn’t as forgiving to plants as places that see more gradual shifts in seasonal temperatures.
4) High Elevation Means Low Oxygen
If you have a heart or respiratory condition, moving to Colorado Springs might not be ideal. Higher altitudes mean lower oxygen levels, which make it difficult to breathe. Some people find that their symptoms get worse the higher they go.
This also means that Colorado Springs may not be ideal for older individuals interested in assisted living accommodations. Those with respiratory conditions may need access to oxygen tanks and other equipment that wouldn’t be necessary at lower elevations.
But the high elevation isn’t bad for everyone! Moving to Colorado Springs is a great idea if you’re a high-intensity athlete looking to train. Access to plenty of local trails makes it incredibly easy (not to mention enjoyable) to practice running and hiking for most of the year.
All in all, consider your overall health and fitness before moving to Colorado Springs. Depending on your personal circumstances, the high altitude could make or break your decision.
5) Colorado Springs Presents Different City Vibes
Depending on what you’re looking for, Colorado Springs can offer big-city vibes or a small-town atmosphere. The city has a population of just over 470,000 people, but it feels much smaller in certain areas.
Downtown Colorado Springs hosts a number of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as a few museums and art galleries. The area has a lively nightlife scene, and there’s always something going on. If you’re moving to Colorado Springs from a bigger city, you’ll probably feel right at home in the downtown area.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slower pace of life, you might want to consider moving to one of the city’s many suburbs. Most are close to outdoor recreation areas like parks and hiking trails, so you’ll still be able to enjoy the great outdoors. And, because the suburbs are less densely populated than downtown, you’ll probably find your neighbors are friendly and welcoming too.
Whether you’re looking for big-city excitement or small-town charm, Colorado Springs has something to offer. It’s just a matter of finding the right neighborhood to fit your needs.
6) Coati Uprise Offers Food, Drinks, Art, And More
Coati Uprise is a great place to check out if you’re looking for a unique dining experience. Multiple food stalls offer a variety of international dishes, as well as a selection of local craft beers and wines.
In addition to food and drink, Coati also has an art gallery featuring works by local artists. If you’re moving to Colorado Springs and are looking for a place to support the local arts scene, this is definitely worth checking out.
The location also regularly hosts live music and events. Whether you’re looking for a delicious meal, a refreshing drink, or great music and beautiful art, Coati has you covered.
7) Colorado Springs Has A Diverse Political Landscape
No matter where you’re from, your political affiliation won’t cause you to feel left out. Colorado Springs hosts a diverse range of political perspectives that make it easy to find people who share your values.
Moving to Colorado Springs is a great idea if you’re looking for welcoming and inclusive communities. No matter your political beliefs, you’ll find spaces in the city where you can connect with people who see the world like you do.
8) Social Circles Take Time To Build
Colorado Springs has a diverse social and political landscape, but with nearly 500,000 people, it’s a big city. That means it can take time to find the people you get along with best.
If you’re new to the city with zero local contacts, it may seem daunting to put yourself out there. But don’t worry! The city has plenty of ways to get involved, and you’ll meet new people in no time. Here are a few ideas:
– Join a club or organization related to your hobbies
– Volunteer for a cause you’re passionate about
– Check out local events and meetups
– Go watch live music, try a local distillery, or attend the many local events happening weekly
With so many things to do in Colorado Springs, you’re bound to find your niche. And before you know it, you’ll have a great group of friends to enjoy the city with. So get out there and explore! Who knows, you might even make some lifelong friends today!
9) The Craft Beer Scene Is Lively
Once you’ve made a few friends, you’ll probably want to invite them for drinks at some point! Colorado Springs has lots of local breweries with great beer.
Looking for a nano-brewery with an ever-changing tap list? Then Trinity Brewing Company is the place for you. They also have a food menu with shareable plates perfect for groups.
Phantom Canyon is another local favorite, and multiple locations within Colorado Springs make it a favorite for meetups with friends. Their upstairs bar and pool tables usually draw a weekend crowd, so get there early! They have a wide selection of beers and a full food menu that customers rave about. Everything from their hamburgers to the grilled octopus is absolutely delicious!
Colorado is known nationwide for its high-quality microbrews. If craft beer is your thing, moving to Colorado Springs is a great idea.
10) You Need A Car To Get Around
Colorado Springs is a huge city and if you’re planning to move here without a car, you won’t get far. Even if you live in the heart of downtown, there are still many places that are only accessible with a vehicle.
If you’re moving to Colorado Springs and don’t have a car, your best bet is to find an apartment or house that’s within walking or biking distance of the places you need to go most. That way, you can limit your reliance on public transportation or ride-sharing services.
Of course, if you do have a car, moving to Colorado Springs is a great opportunity to explore all the different parts of the city. From the bustling downtown area to the quiet mountain suburbs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here.
Interested In Moving To Colorado Springs?
Colorado Springs is a wonderful city to live in, whether by yourself or with a family. The cost of living is reasonable, the scenery is beautiful, and there’s always something to do. If you’re thinking about moving to Colorado Springs, the points above will help you make the decision that’s best for you.
When it’s time to start searching for homes in the area, Vantegic is here to help. Contact us today for more help finding your perfect home in Colorado Springs.
