Moving from Denver to Colorado Springs: Complete Cost & Lifestyle Comparison

Are you thinking about trading the Mile High City for the Olympic City? You’re not alone. Many Coloradans are making the move down I-25 from Denver to Colorado Springs, drawn by the promise of a more relaxed lifestyle, closer proximity to Pikes Peak, and often, more affordable housing.

At iHaul iMove, we handle this route weekly. We’ve helped countless families, young professionals, and retirees make the switch. Here’s our complete guide to comparing the costs, lifestyle, and what to expect when you move south.

Cost of Living: Does Your Dollar Go Further?

One of the primary drivers for this migration is cost. While Colorado Springs isn’t “cheap” compared to the national average, it often provides more value than Denver.

Housing Market

Historically, you could get significantly more square footage in the Springs for the price of a Denver condo. While prices have risen, you can still generally find larger lots and more single-family home options in neighborhoods like Briargate, Northgate, and Security-Widefield for a lower entry price than comparable Denver neighborhoods like Highlands or Wash Park.

Taxes and Utilities

Property taxes and specialized district fees vary widely in both cities, so it’s essential to check the specific tax rate of your new neighborhood. Utilities are generally comparable, though water costs can be higher in certain districts of El Paso County.

Commute and Transportation

Let’s address the elephant in the room: I-25.

If you plan to commute back to the Denver Tech Center (DTC) or downtown Denver, be prepared. The “Gap” project has improved flow, but weather and accidents can still turn a 1-hour drive into a 2-hour ordeal. However, for remote workers or those finding jobs with major Springs employers like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, or local healthcare systems, the internal commute within Colorado Springs is often less stressful than navigating I-25 and I-70 in Denver.

Lifestyle: Urban Buzz vs. Outdoor Access

Denver offers a big-city vibe: major league sports, a vast performing arts scene, and dense urban nightlife.

Colorado Springs offers an outdoor-first lifestyle. You are quite literally at the foot of the mountains.

• Garden of the Gods is your city park.
• Pikes Peak dominates the skyline.
• Hiking trails like Red Rock Canyon Open Space are minutes from downtown.

If your ideal Saturday involves a brewery after a intense hike rather than a club after a concert, the Springs might be your perfect fit.

Best Neighborhoods for Denver Transplants

Moving from a specific Denver vibe? Here are the Springs equivalents:

• Love Wash Park? Try the Old North End. Historic homes, tree-lined medians, and proximity to downtown.
• Love Highlands Ranch? Look at Briargate or Northgate. Master-planned communities, great schools, and modern amenities.
• Love RiNo? Check out Downtown or Old Colorado City. Walkable, artsy, and full of local character.

The Move Itself: What to Expect

Moving 70 miles might seem like a “local” move, but it requires careful planning.

1. Traffic Timing: We schedule our trucks to avoid the worst of the I-25 rush hours to ensure your belongings arrive efficiently.
2. Weather: The Palmer Divide (Monument Hill) has its own weather system. It can be sunny in Denver and snowing in Monument. Our drivers are experienced in navigating these conditions safely.

Why Families Are Making the Switch

We see families moving for the schools (D20, D12, and D49 are highly rated) and the perceived safety and community feel. It’s a city that still feels like a large town in many ways.

Ready to Head South?

If you’re ready to trade the I-25 gridlock for Pikes Peak views, iHaul iMove is here to help. We know every exit from Belleview to Tejon.