Living in Fort Collins, Colorado: 20 Things To Know Before You Go
Colorado
TL;DR: Living in Fort Collins, Colorado
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Fort Collins, a growing community in Colorado, combines a lively, easygoing vibe with the majesty of the Rocky Mountains and the energy of a college town. Located about an hour from both Denver and Boulder, Fort Collins is known for its thriving craft beer scene and a year-round outdoor lifestyle. Colorado State University (CSU) plays a major role in the city’s culture, character, and youthful population, which has a median age of about 30. Think living in Fort Collins, Colorado, sounds right up your alley? Here are 20 things to know before making your move.
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Living in Fort Collins, Colorado — At a Glance
- Situated about an hour north of both Denver and Boulder, Fort Collins is bordered by the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and the banks of the Cache la Poudre River.
- Fort Collins was founded in 1864 as a military fort, referred to as “Camp Collins.”
- The total land area covers 57.2 square miles.
- The population in Fort Collins is just over 171,500, according to the U.S. Census.
- Thanks to the university and other amenities that cater to a young demographic, the median age of around 31 is lower than in the rest of the state — like Denver, where it’s a slightly older 35 — and the U.S., at 39.
Living in Fort Collins, Colorado — FAQs
Q: Is Fort Collins a good city to live in?
A: Fort Collins can be a great city to live in, especially if you like the outdoors, great restaurants, and plenty of arts and cultural experiences. However, the relatively high cost of living, competitive housing market, and growing traffic are worth considering.
Q: Why is Fort Collins so popular?
A: Home to Colorado State University, Fort Collins is popular among students and young professionals, but the city also has something special to offer for every stage and walk of life.
Q: Is it better to live in Fort Collins or Colorado Springs?
A: Living in Colorado Springs means access to more big-city features, while Fort Collins is a smaller, more laid-back town. Basically, it comes down to personal preference.
Q: Is Fort Collins expensive to live in?
A: The cost of living in Fort Collins, Co., is higher than in many other hotspots across the U.S., but it’s still cheaper to live in Fort Collins than other areas of Colorado. There are still affordable options for housing in lots of areas, including Greenbriar Village and Buckingham.
Q: What salary do you need to live in Fort Collins?
A: For a single adult with no children, MIT’s Living Wage Calculator estimates a living wage of $26.76 per hour, which is about $55,700 annually before taxes. For households with children, of course, that number rises quite a bit, depending on family size and the number of working adults.
20 Things To Know About Living in Fort Collins, Colorado
There’s a lot to consider before making Fort Collins your next home. From housing costs and job opportunities to weather, neighborhoods, and things to do, here are 20 things to know about living in Fort Collins, Colorado.
1. The Cost of Living in Fort Collins, CO, Is Higher Than the National Average
Living in Fort Collins, Colorado, comes at a premium. The city’s cost of living index is 115.7, making it about 16 percent higher than the national average. Still, overall costs are somewhat lower than in the rest of the state.
How much you’ll need depends on your lifestyle and household. According to MIT’s Living Wage Calculator, a single adult with no children needs about $55,700 per year before taxes to cover basic expenses. A family of four with two working adults needs about $144,500 before taxes.
Breathtaking nature is par for the course when you’re living in Fort Collins, Colorado.
2. Living in Fort Collins Has Pros and Cons
Before you commit to living in Fort Collins, pros and cons should both be considered. Here are some key things to know before you make your move.
Pro: You’ll Have Prime Access to Nature’s Best Offerings
If you're looking for a city to enjoy year-round adventure, then Fort Collins is definitely the place for you. From hiking, biking, and skiing around the Rocky Mountains and local parks to white-water rafting and kayaking on the Cache la Poudre River, there’s an unending list of things to do.
Pro: Schools Are Good, From Elementary to University
The city of Fort Collins is known for its well-regarded public schools and higher-ed institutions, including Colorado State University. It’s an ideal place to live for college students and families with children — or with children on the way.
Pro: Fort Collins is Known as the Napa Valley of Craft Beer
You’ll find prominent names like Odell Brewing Co. and New Belgium Brewing Company, the fourth-largest brewer in the U.S., along with smaller up-and-comers that are making their own mark. Local tours of some of the city’s 20-plus breweries offer a closer look at the process, which is an ideal activity for a relaxing weekend.
Pro: There’s a Lively Music Scene
Live music in Fort Collins features a wide variety of genres, from bluegrass to indie rock, in an eclectic range of venues. The Mishawaka Amphitheatre, about 10 miles from Fort Collins, is a gorgeous spot along the Poudre River with views of the Rockies. The city also hosts the annual FoCoMX music festival, which showcases local talent.
Con: Traffic Is Getting Bad
The growth in and around Fort Collins has brought more people, which is great, but also more cars, which is not great. For commuters, one-way averages about 20 minutes. Still lower than the U.S. average of about 27 minutes, though.
Con: If You Don’t Like Snow, You Won’t Like Living in Fort Collins, Colorado
The winter weather in Fort Collins can be great for various outdoor activities. Who doesn’t love building snowmen, sledding, and walking in a winter wonderland? On the other hand, the 50 inches of snow the city gets can make driving a harrowing experience. Make sure you’re prepared.
Con: The Housing Market Is Competitive
Fort Collins' housing market makes it difficult for many people to find affordable homes. Young families and first-time buyers in particular may have a tough time.
3. Homes in Fort Collins Are Pricey
The average home price in Fort Collins is about $565,700, which doesn’t open the door to many affordable options. But you will find a variety of sizes and styles, from single-family houses and townhomes to condominiums and mobile homes. The city's central location and proximity to Colorado State University are part of why prices are high. Vacant land in the outlying areas is also often used for agriculture and new construction.
4. Fort Collins Rentals Are Abundant
If you’re on a tight housing budget, then you might want to consider renting initially to save up some money before you buy. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,700, and you can expect to get around 925 square feet of space at that price. Of course, studio apartments are usually the most affordable, while 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom apartments are a bit pricier.
5. There Are Many Great Neighborhoods in Fort Collins
Old Town Fort Collins
Old Town Fort Collins is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the city, with turn-of-the-century architecture, wide streets once used for horse-drawn carriages, and abundant brewery and dining options in Old Town Square. It’s a great neighborhood for young professionals, students, and recent graduates, but homes are pricey: The average cost is about $653,900.
Huntington Hills
This family-friendly neighborhood offers plenty of fun activities to keep everyone active. Portner Reservoir and the foothills mean optimal fishing access and plenty of hiking trails nearby. You can also enjoy a picnic or check out a baseball game at Fossil Creek Park, which wraps around the reservoir. The average home cost is about $669,300 — maybe a little too high for a first-time-homebuyer.
Brown Farm
Along with easy access to Colorado State University and the downtown Fort Collins area, the laid-back atmosphere and outdoor options make Brown Farm popular among retirees. The community features Blevins Park, with about seven acres of walking trails and playgrounds. It’s also a great spot for access to the Horsetooth Reservoir and other places along the Front Range.
6. Public Transportation Is Golden in Fort Collins
There are plenty of ways to get around when living in Fort Collins, Colorado. If you're looking to be more eco-friendly, Transfort runs 365 days a year, and the MAX Rapid Transit service is a great way to get around town. If you're in need of paratransit services, Dial-A-Ride is a great alternative to check out. And traveling longer distances is a breeze, too, with easy access to the Northern Colorado Regional Airport.
Colorado State University — the city’s major four-year school — is yet another good reason to consider living in Fort Collins, Colorado.
7. Fort Collins Is Known for Academic Excellence
Education is a major focus in Fort Collins. Colorado State University is the city’s major four-year school and also hosts lectures, performances, and other events for the local community. About 45 minutes away in Greeley, the University of Northern Colorado offers another public option, while K-12 students are primarily served by the Poudre School District.
8. CSU Sports Give Rams Plenty To Cheer About
Rams fan? You’ll have plenty of company in Fort Collins. CSU officially joined the Pac-12 Conference in July 2026, which means more games, more exposure for the teams, and better opportunities for students. But it’s not all about football in Fort Collins. Intramural sports are a great way to get more involved in the CSU sports scene, with sports like flag football, soccer, water polo, and kickball.
9. Fort Collins Weather Brings Sunny Summers and Snowy Winters
Fort Collins' summers are mostly clear and warm, while the winters are typically windy and snowy, with a few cloudy days here and there. The temperature ranges from 19°F to 87°F throughout the year, with July bringing the hottest temps and December the chilliest. Snow can make winter driving more challenging, but in Colorado it also makes skiing, snowshoeing, and other cold-weather recreation more exciting.
10. Crime Rates Vary Across the City
As in any city, crime levels vary by neighborhood. The overall Fort Collins crime rate is higher than the national average, but the city isn't among the most violent or property-crime-ridden areas. According to NeighborhoodScout, Fort Collins is safer than 10 percent of U.S. neighborhoods. Do your due diligence, and you’ll find a neighborhood that fits your comfort level.
11. Fort Collins Has a Relatively Low Unemployment Rate
The Fort Collins-Loveland metro area has an unemployment rate of 3.6 percent as of June 2026, compared with 4.4 percent nationwide. Job-seekers will find opportunities across a range of fields, including healthcare, education, retail, restaurants, and other service industries.
12. Hungry? Fort Collins Is the Place To Be
Fort Collins has a variety of restaurants, with everything from sushi to Italian and farm-to-table. You’ll find options throughout the city, but Old Town and the area around CSU are your best bets for creative cuisine.
Some of our favorite foodie spots:
13. Arts and Culture in Fort Collins Are Thriving
Theater, opera, ballet, music, museums, and public art all have a home in Fort Collins. The CSU Center for the Arts hosts performances and exhibitions, while local attractions include the Blue Moose Art Gallery, the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, and the Avenir Museum of Design and Merchandising.
14. Parks and Rec Are Abundant Throughout Fort Collins
Fort Collins Natural Areas
About 50 designated natural areas occupy more than 55,000 acres in and around the city. These protected spaces offer hiking, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and even an opportunity to see a pure Plains Bison herd at Soapstone Prairie Natural Area.
Lory State Park
Just west of Fort Collins, Lory State Park features over 26 miles of trails through rolling valleys, meadows, and rocky ridges. Popular activities here include hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park’s Arthur's Rock Trail offers magnificent views of Fort Collins and Horsetooth Reservoir.
Pawnee National Grasslands
About 30 miles east of Fort Collins, Pawnee National Grassland covers about 193,000 acres of shortgrass prairie. Visitors can hike, watch wildlife, and camp on land that feels worlds away from the city.
15. Fort Collins Makes Green Living Part of City Life
Fort Collins, Colorado, one of only three U.S. cities with Platinum Bicycle Friendly status from the League of American Bicyclists, has invested heavily in greener ways of living and getting around. Designated as an official Tree City, Fort Collins works closely with the Arbor Day Foundation to help residents plant trees to lower energy costs, filter air, and reduce stormwater runoff. Residents can also take advantage of miles of trails for cyclists, while organizations like the Sustainable Living Association offer programs focused on conservation and sustainable living.
16. The Music Scene Is Lively
Anyone looking for things to do in Fort Collins will undoubtedly want to check out the vibrant music scene, with local and national acts playing regularly at venues around town. One of the most prominent listening spaces in the state is the Fort Collins Armory, which has a capacity of 200 and features various acoustic acts. And Avogadro's Number, an indoor/outdoor music venue, is perfect for hanging with friends and listening to live music.
17. Fort Collins Nightlife Thrives in Old Town
Old Town is the hub of Fort Collins nightlife, with bars, craft beer breweries, restaurants, and live music venues packed into a walkable downtown area. Beer culture is a major part of the attraction, but cocktails, concerts, and other options give guests plenty to do beyond the kegs.
You’ll find locally owned boutiques, art-minded shops, and other treasures in the Old Town district of Fort Collins, Colorado.
18. Shop Local To Show Your Neighborly Support
Indie businesses are a big part of the Fort Collins character, particularly in the Old Town district, where you’ll find locally owned boutiques, art-minded shops, and other treasures. Mom-and-pop shops sell all kinds of goods and contribute to the tight-knit sense of community, and the Fort Collins Farmers Market joins the action from May to November with fresh produce and other goodies.
19. For History Buffs, There’s No Shortage of Things To Do in Fort Collins
Fort Collins historians trace its roots to Camp Collins, a military outpost established to protect travelers along the Overland Trail. Today, residents can explore that history through a variety of Fort Collins historical tours, the 1879 Avery House, and the Fort Collins History Connection. Up for a little scare? If you prefer your history with a little paranormal activity, the Fort Collins Ghost Tour will lead you through Old Town while sharing stories about local legends, hauntings, and other strange happenings.
20. You’ll Find Plenty of Fun Things To Do in Fort Collins
Explore Old Town
Historic Old Town is one of the best places to experience Fort Collins, with restaurants, shops, music venues, bars, and galleries all in a walkable downtown district. Fun fact: The area is said to have helped inspire Disneyland's Main Street, U.S.A. Even if you’re on a budget, a day just exploring the Old Town area is one of the most fun things to do in Fort Collins.
Catch a Show at Lincoln Center
The Fort Collins Lincoln Center hosts touring Broadway shows, concerts, dance, comedy, and family-friendly performances throughout the year. You’ll find a different kind of outing at The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, also located north of the town, with interactive exhibits covering science, history, and more, along with its OtterBox Digital Dome Theater.
Take Advantage of Summer Festivities
The summer season in Fort Collins is a great time to explore the many local festivals, such as the Taste of Fort Collins, where residents can enjoy food and live music. New Belgium’s Tour de Fat bike festival brings a famously colorful costumed bike parade through the city, along with music, entertainment, and plenty of fun. And the Peach Festival celebrates the end of summer at Civic Center Park with music, food, and peach-themed drinks and food.
Raft Down the Poudre River
If you’re looking for a little adventure, whitewater rafting down the Cache la Poudre River might just be the ticket. Start at A Wanderlust Adventure, where guides have been taking thrill-seekers on rafting trips down the Poudre for more than 45 years.
Move to Fort Collins With PODS
Ready to head west? Make your Rocky Mountain move to Fort Collins, Colorado, flexible with PODS portable moving containers. PODS will deliver your container right to your driveway, where you can pack and load on your own schedule. And you don’t have to feel rushed, because one month’s storage is built into the cost of every move. Need a hand with the heavy lifting? PODS can even refer you to local packing and loading services.
Visit PODS online for a free local moving quote or call 877-350-7637 for long-distance moving.
Editor’s note: For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100. Home values in the millions were rounded to the nearest $100,000.
*This article was written on behalf of PODS Enterprises, LLC (“PODS”). PODS does not warrant the completeness or accuracy of any information contained in this article and disclaims any liability for reliance upon the content herein.
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