20 Worst Places to Live in Colorado: Unveiling the State’s Least Desirable Locations
Colorado attracts many with its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Yet not all areas of the Centennial State offer an ideal living experience. Some locations face challenges that significantly impact residents’ quality of life.
This article examines 20 places in Colorado that rank as less desirable for various reasons.
Factors considered include crime rates, economic conditions, environmental issues, and access to amenities.
By exploring these locations, readers can gain insight into the complexities of choosing a place to call home in Colorado.
1. Alamosa
Alamosa, located in southern Colorado’s San Luis Valley, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city experiences harsh winters with temperatures often dropping below freezing, making daily activities difficult.
Crime rates in Alamosa are higher than the national average, raising safety concerns for inhabitants. The local economy struggles, with limited job opportunities and a median household income below the state average.
Alamosa’s isolated location contributes to a lack of amenities and cultural attractions. Residents may find themselves traveling long distances for shopping, entertainment, or specialized healthcare services.
The city also grapples with environmental issues, including poor air quality due to dust storms and agricultural activities in the surrounding area. This can pose health risks, especially for those with respiratory conditions.
2. Sheridan
Sheridan, a small city in Arapahoe County, Colorado, faces several challenges that make it a less desirable place to live. The city’s crime rate exceeds the national average, raising concerns about safety for residents and visitors alike.
Sheridan’s education system struggles with underfunding and low test scores. This can negatively impact students’ academic opportunities and future prospects.
The city’s economy also presents difficulties for its inhabitants. Limited job opportunities within Sheridan often force residents to commute to nearby cities for work.
Housing affordability is another issue in Sheridan. Property values are relatively high compared to the median household income, making it challenging for many to purchase homes.
Public transportation options in Sheridan are limited, which can be problematic for those without personal vehicles. This lack of accessibility can hinder residents’ mobility and access to essential services.
3. Lamar
Lamar, located in southeastern Colorado, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a stagnant economy and limited job opportunities, leading to high unemployment rates.
Lamar’s isolated location poses difficulties for residents seeking access to larger urban amenities and services. The nearest major city is over 100 miles away, creating inconveniences for those needing specialized healthcare or advanced educational options.
The area experiences harsh climate conditions, including extreme temperatures and frequent dust storms. These weather patterns can take a toll on residents’ comfort and property maintenance.
Crime rates in Lamar exceed the national average, raising safety concerns for inhabitants. The city also grapples with aging infrastructure, which can affect daily life and community development.
Limited recreational and cultural offerings in Lamar may leave some residents feeling disconnected from broader experiences and opportunities for personal growth.
4. Montrose
Montrose, located in western Colorado, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with limited economic opportunities, leading to a higher unemployment rate compared to state averages.
Montrose’s remote location can be isolating for residents. Access to specialized healthcare and educational facilities is often restricted, requiring long trips to larger cities.
The area experiences harsh winters, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. This can make travel difficult and increase heating costs for residents.
Crime rates in Montrose are higher than the national average, particularly for property crimes. This raises concerns about safety and security in the community.
Limited cultural and entertainment options in Montrose can lead to a lack of diverse activities for residents. This may be especially challenging for younger populations seeking vibrant social scenes.
5. Pueblo
Pueblo, Colorado faces significant challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a high crime rate, surpassing both state and national averages. Property crime and violent crime are particularly concerning for residents.
The local economy in Pueblo has been slow to recover from past industrial declines. Unemployment rates remain higher than the state average, limiting job opportunities for many residents.
Pueblo’s education system also faces difficulties. Some schools in the area underperform on standardized tests compared to state averages. This can affect the quality of education available to local students.
Air quality in Pueblo is another issue of concern. The city sometimes experiences poor air quality due to industrial emissions and geographical factors that trap pollutants in the area.
While Pueblo has a lower cost of living than many other Colorado cities, this comes with trade-offs in terms of amenities and economic opportunities.
6. Commerce City
Commerce City, located northeast of Denver, faces significant environmental challenges. The area’s industrial history has left a legacy of pollution and contamination issues.
Air quality concerns persist due to nearby oil refineries and other industrial facilities. This can negatively impact residents’ health and quality of life.
The city struggles with a higher crime rate compared to the Colorado average. Property crimes and violent offenses contribute to safety concerns for inhabitants.
Limited amenities and recreational opportunities are available within city limits. Residents often need to travel to neighboring areas for shopping, entertainment, and dining options.
The local school system performs below state averages in standardized testing. This can be a drawback for families with school-age children seeking quality education.
Commerce City’s proximity to Denver International Airport results in frequent aircraft noise. This can be disruptive for residents, especially in neighborhoods closer to flight paths.
7. Durango
Durango, located in southwestern Colorado, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city experiences a high cost of living, particularly in housing, which can strain residents’ budgets.
Limited job opportunities outside of tourism and service industries can make it difficult for some to find stable, well-paying employment. This economic situation may lead to financial stress for many inhabitants.
The remote location of Durango can be problematic, as it’s far from major urban centers. This isolation can result in higher prices for goods and services, as well as limited access to specialized healthcare and cultural amenities.
Durango’s weather can be extreme, with harsh winters and hot summers. These conditions may be uncomfortable for some residents and can lead to increased utility costs.
Traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons can frustrate locals, causing delays and making it challenging to navigate the city efficiently.
8. Grand Junction
Grand Junction, located in western Colorado, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a higher crime rate compared to the national average, particularly in property crimes.
The local economy relies heavily on the energy sector, which can lead to instability during industry downturns. This dependence has resulted in periods of high unemployment and economic uncertainty for residents.
Grand Junction experiences hot summers and cold winters, with temperature extremes that some find uncomfortable. The area also deals with air quality issues, particularly during wildfire seasons.
Limited public transportation options in Grand Junction can make getting around difficult for those without personal vehicles. The city’s infrastructure has faced criticism for needing improvements and updates.
While Grand Junction offers access to outdoor recreation, some residents find the cultural and entertainment options lacking compared to larger Colorado cities.
9. Sterling
Sterling, located in northeastern Colorado, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, making it vulnerable to fluctuations in crop prices and weather conditions.
Crime rates in Sterling are higher than the state average, raising concerns about safety for residents. The city also struggles with limited job opportunities outside of the agricultural sector, potentially leading to higher unemployment rates.
Sterling’s isolated location, approximately 128 miles northeast of Denver, can make access to certain amenities and services difficult for residents. The city experiences extreme weather conditions, including hot summers and cold winters, which may be uncomfortable for some.
Educational opportunities in Sterling are limited, with only a few schools and one community college serving the area. This lack of options may be a drawback for families seeking diverse educational experiences for their children.
10. Trinidad
Trinidad, a small city in southern Colorado, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The local economy has struggled since the decline of the coal mining industry, leading to limited job opportunities for residents.
The city’s unemployment rate exceeds the state average, contributing to financial hardships for many households. Trinidad’s remote location, about 200 miles from Denver, can make access to certain amenities and services difficult.
Crime rates in Trinidad are higher than the national average, raising concerns about safety and security. The city’s aging infrastructure requires significant upgrades, which strains local resources.
Trinidad’s public schools have faced difficulties in recent years, with test scores falling below state averages. The harsh winter climate can pose challenges for residents, particularly during heavy snowfall periods.
Limited entertainment options and cultural attractions may leave some residents feeling isolated. The city’s small population can result in a lack of diversity in terms of dining, shopping, and social experiences.
11. Brush
Brush, a small city in northeastern Colorado, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town’s economy heavily relies on agriculture, leaving it vulnerable to fluctuations in crop prices and weather conditions.
Brush struggles with limited job opportunities outside of farming and related industries. This lack of economic diversity can make it difficult for residents to find stable employment or advance their careers.
The city’s remote location, approximately 90 miles northeast of Denver, isolates it from major urban amenities and services. Residents often need to travel significant distances for specialized healthcare, shopping, or entertainment options.
Brush experiences extreme weather conditions typical of the High Plains region. Harsh winters with heavy snowfall and strong winds can disrupt daily life and pose safety risks for residents.
The town’s aging infrastructure requires attention, with some roads and public facilities in need of repairs or upgrades. This can affect the quality of life for Brush’s inhabitants and potentially deter new residents or businesses from settling in the area.
12. Florence
Florence, Colorado faces several challenges that impact its livability. The small town struggles with limited economic opportunities, leading to higher unemployment rates compared to state averages.
Crime rates in Florence are a concern for residents. The presence of a federal supermax prison nearby contributes to this issue, potentially affecting the town’s safety perception.
Educational options in Florence are limited, with only a handful of schools serving the area. This can be problematic for families seeking diverse educational opportunities for their children.
The town’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or upgrades. This affects the overall quality of life for residents.
Florence’s remote location, while appealing to some, can be a drawback. Access to specialized healthcare services and cultural amenities often requires travel to larger cities.
13. Craig
Craig is a small city located in Moffat County, northwestern Colorado. With a population of around 9,000, it serves as the county seat. The city’s economy heavily relies on coal mining and power generation industries.
Craig faces challenges due to its remote location and limited economic diversification. Job opportunities are scarce outside the energy sector, which can lead to financial instability for residents.
The city experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures. This climate can make daily life difficult and increase heating costs for households.
Craig’s isolated position means limited access to healthcare facilities and specialized medical services. Residents often need to travel long distances for advanced treatments.
The city’s educational options are limited, with few choices for higher education within close proximity. This can impact career prospects for young adults seeking to further their studies.
14. Delta
Delta, located in western Colorado, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a limited job market, making it difficult for locals to find stable employment opportunities.
Delta’s economy heavily relies on agriculture and mining, sectors that can be volatile and susceptible to economic downturns. This economic instability contributes to higher unemployment rates compared to other parts of the state.
The city’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or updates. This can affect daily life and make the area less appealing to potential new residents or businesses.
Delta’s remote location means limited access to certain amenities and services that are more readily available in larger urban centers. Residents may need to travel significant distances for specialized healthcare or shopping options.
15. Leadville
Leadville, Colorado holds the distinction of being the highest incorporated city in North America at 10,152 feet above sea level. This extreme elevation brings significant challenges for residents.
The city experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall and temperatures that can plummet well below freezing. These conditions make daily life difficult and increase heating costs.
Leadville’s remote location in Lake County limits access to many amenities and services. The nearest major city, Denver, is over 100 miles away, requiring long drives for specialized medical care or shopping.
The local economy has struggled since the decline of mining operations. Job opportunities are limited, and the median household income falls below the state average.
High altitude also poses health risks for some individuals, including altitude sickness and exacerbation of respiratory conditions. Visitors and new residents often need time to acclimate to the thin air.
16. Rifle
Rifle, Colorado faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town’s economy heavily relies on the oil and gas industry, making it vulnerable to market fluctuations.
Unemployment rates in Rifle tend to be higher than the state average. This can lead to financial instability for many residents and limit job opportunities.
The cost of living in Rifle is relatively high compared to median incomes. Housing expenses and other necessities can strain household budgets.
Air quality in Rifle is a concern due to industrial activities in the area. This may contribute to health issues for some residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions.
Limited access to healthcare facilities is another drawback. Residents often need to travel to larger cities for specialized medical care.
The town’s remote location can be isolating. Rifle lacks some of the amenities and cultural offerings found in more populous areas of Colorado.
17. La Junta
La Junta, a small city in southeastern Colorado, faces several challenges that contribute to its reputation as one of the state’s less desirable places to live. The city’s economy struggles with limited job opportunities and a high unemployment rate.
La Junta’s median household income falls significantly below the state average, impacting residents’ quality of life. The city also grapples with a higher crime rate compared to many other Colorado communities.
Education in La Junta presents another concern, with local schools performing below state standards. This factor may deter families looking for strong educational opportunities for their children.
The city’s remote location, approximately 60 miles from the nearest major urban center, can lead to feelings of isolation. Access to specialized healthcare and diverse cultural amenities is limited due to this geographical constraint.
La Junta’s climate can be harsh, with hot summers and cold winters. The area is prone to severe weather events, including tornadoes and hailstorms, which may pose risks to residents and property.
18. Fort Morgan
Fort Morgan, located in northeastern Colorado, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city’s economy heavily relies on agriculture and food processing industries, limiting job diversity and opportunities for residents.
Crime rates in Fort Morgan are higher than the state average, raising concerns about safety and security. Property crime, in particular, is a significant issue for the community.
The city’s educational system struggles with lower-than-average test scores and graduation rates compared to other Colorado schools. This can affect the quality of education available to students in the area.
Fort Morgan experiences harsh weather conditions, including severe thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes. Winters can be particularly cold and windy, making outdoor activities difficult during certain months.
Limited recreational and cultural amenities in Fort Morgan may leave residents feeling isolated or lacking in entertainment options. The city’s small size and rural location contribute to fewer choices for dining, shopping, and leisure activities.
19. Walsenburg
Walsenburg, a small city in southern Colorado, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town struggles with a declining population, which has led to reduced economic opportunities for residents.
Unemployment rates in Walsenburg are higher than the state average. This lack of job prospects has contributed to financial hardships for many families in the area.
The city’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or renovation. Limited funding has made it difficult for local authorities to address these issues promptly.
Walsenburg’s remote location, about 90 miles south of Colorado Springs, can be isolating for residents. Access to specialized healthcare and diverse entertainment options often requires long drives to larger cities.
The local education system faces challenges, with some schools struggling to maintain high academic standards due to limited resources. This situation may concern families with school-age children.
20. Cañon City
Cañon City, located in Fremont County, Colorado, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city’s economy heavily relies on its correctional facilities, which can create a unique social dynamic for residents.
Crime rates in Cañon City are higher than the national average, raising concerns about safety. The presence of multiple prisons in the area contributes to this statistic and affects the community’s perception.
The city’s job market is limited, with few opportunities outside the corrections industry. This lack of diversity in employment options can make it difficult for residents to find suitable work or advance their careers.
Cañon City’s educational system faces challenges, with some schools performing below state averages. This can be a concern for families with children seeking quality education.
The city’s infrastructure is aging, and some areas require significant updates. This affects the overall quality of life for residents and can lead to increased living costs.
Factors Contributing to Living Conditions
Several key elements shape the quality of life in Colorado’s communities. These factors directly impact residents’ daily experiences and long-term prospects.
Economic Stability
Job opportunities and income levels play crucial roles in determining living conditions. Areas with limited employment options often struggle economically. Low wages can make it difficult for residents to afford housing and basic necessities.
Some Colorado towns face challenges due to the decline of traditional industries. Mining and manufacturing closures have left economic voids in certain regions. This can lead to population loss and decreased local services.
Communities heavily reliant on seasonal tourism may experience financial instability. Fluctuations in visitor numbers can create boom-and-bust cycles, affecting year-round employment and business viability.
Crime Rates
Safety concerns significantly impact quality of life. High crime rates can create fear and stress for residents. They may also deter new businesses and potential homebuyers from moving to an area.
Some Colorado communities grapple with drug-related crimes. Substance abuse issues can strain local resources and increase property crimes. This often creates a cycle of social and economic challenges.
Areas with inadequate law enforcement funding may struggle to maintain public safety. Understaffed police departments can lead to slower response times and reduced crime prevention efforts.
Educational Opportunities
Access to quality education is vital for community well-being. Areas with underfunded or underperforming schools may struggle to attract and retain families. This can lead to population decline and reduced economic growth.
Some Colorado towns face challenges in recruiting and retaining qualified teachers. Low salaries and limited resources can make it difficult to provide competitive educational offerings.
Communities without nearby higher education institutions may see young adults leave for college. This “brain drain” can impact local workforce development and innovation potential.
Limited vocational training options can hinder economic diversification efforts. This may leave residents unprepared for emerging job markets and technological advancements.
Environmental and Infrastructure Issues
Colorado faces significant challenges related to pollution, transportation, and healthcare access in certain areas. These issues impact residents’ quality of life and contribute to some locations being less desirable places to live.
Pollution Levels
Air quality problems plague several Colorado cities. Denver and Fort Collins frequently experience high ozone levels, exceeding EPA standards. Industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust contribute to smog, particularly during summer months.
Water pollution is a concern in some regions. Agricultural runoff and mining activities have contaminated waterways. The Gold King Mine spill in 2015 released toxic metals into the Animas River, affecting communities downstream.
Noise pollution impacts areas near major highways and airports. Residents living close to Denver International Airport often complain about aircraft noise disrupting their daily lives.
Transportation Systems
Colorado’s transportation infrastructure struggles to keep pace with population growth. Traffic congestion is a major issue in urban areas, especially along the Front Range corridor.
Public transit options are limited in many cities. Denver’s light rail system has expanded, but coverage remains insufficient for many commuters. Smaller cities often lack robust bus networks.
Road maintenance is an ongoing challenge. Harsh winter weather and heavy traffic cause rapid deterioration of roadways. Potholes and crumbling bridges are common sights in some areas.
Rural communities face unique transportation hurdles. Limited public transit options and long distances to essential services can isolate residents without reliable personal vehicles.
Access to Healthcare
Rural parts of Colorado struggle with healthcare access. Many counties lack hospitals or have limited medical facilities. Residents often must travel long distances for specialized care.
Physician shortages affect both rural and urban areas. Colorado ranks below the national average in primary care doctors per capita. Wait times for appointments can be lengthy.
Mental health services are particularly scarce in some regions. Colorado has high suicide rates, yet many communities lack adequate mental health resources and professionals.
Emergency medical services face challenges in remote areas. Long response times and limited air ambulance coverage can impact patient outcomes in critical situations.
Community and Social Aspects
The worst places to live in Colorado often struggle with limited community engagement, inadequate recreational facilities, and a lack of cultural diversity. These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of life in these areas.
Community Engagement
Many of Colorado’s least desirable locations suffer from low community involvement. Residents often feel disconnected from their neighbors and local events. Town meetings see poor attendance, and volunteer opportunities go unfilled.
Local governments in these areas may lack resources to organize community activities. This results in fewer opportunities for residents to connect and build relationships.
Some towns have outdated or non-existent community centers. This absence of central gathering spaces further hinders social interaction and community building efforts.
Recreational Facilities
The worst places to live in Colorado typically have limited recreational options. Parks may be poorly maintained or scarce, with minimal playground equipment and sports facilities.
Public pools, if present, are often overcrowded or in disrepair. Hiking trails and bike paths may be underdeveloped or non-existent, limiting outdoor activities.
Community sports leagues struggle due to a lack of proper fields or courts. This shortage of recreational facilities can lead to sedentary lifestyles and reduced physical activity among residents.
Indoor recreation centers are often absent or underfunded. This leaves residents with few options for fitness and leisure activities, especially during harsh weather conditions.
Cultural Diversity
Many of Colorado’s least desirable areas lack cultural diversity. These communities tend to be homogeneous, with limited exposure to different ethnicities, religions, and cultural backgrounds.
Restaurants and shops typically offer limited variety in cuisine and goods. This lack of diversity can lead to a stagnant cultural atmosphere and fewer opportunities for cultural exchange.
Cultural events and festivals are infrequent or non-existent in these areas. Residents have limited exposure to diverse art forms, music, and traditions.
Educational institutions in these communities may struggle to provide multicultural programs. This can result in a narrow worldview among students and a lack of global awareness.