Each year, Money Magazine scours the countryside to find the best small towns in the nation. What are they looking for? According to Money, these are towns that are “thriving economically” and have “all you could want in a place to raise a family: plenty of green space, good schools, and a strong sense of community.” This year, there’s good news for folks planning to relocate to Colorado and looking for a luxury home: three Colorado towns made it into the top 25. Here they are, along with some of the reasons they’re among the best:
Louisville (number 2)
With a population just under 20,000, Louisville made it to the number two spot this year, though in two previous years, it was number one—the best small town in America, and with good reason. The public school system is among the best around, and opportunities for higher education abound, with 37 colleges and universities within a 30-mile radius.
The housing market is also strong and has been for almost a decade, as are employment opportunities along the length of the tech-driven, Denver-Boulder corridor. Median family income stands at just over $104,000, and the median home price at about $370,000 with average property taxes less than $2,400 a year. Opportunities to find a great luxury home abound in this buyer’s market. View luxury homes for sale in Louisville.
If work and housing opportunities are very good, those for leisure and entertainment are great: 23 movie theaters, almost 2,000 restaurants, 121 golf courses and 8 museums all 30 miles or less from town. And then of course, there are the Rockies, just a 20-minute drive away.
Parker (number 12)
At just under 50,000, the population of Parker, CO went through some tough times at the start of the housing downturn, but since then the market has rallied with homes now selling fast—one of the reasons Parker is number 12 on Money’s list. Job growth is very strong, the median family income is about $105,000 and the average home price is about $285,000.
Town residents enjoy a strong education system and some very special amenities, including a Performing Arts Center and Water Park. View Parker Real Estate and Homes for Sale.
Firestone (number 24)
To say that Firestone, Co is “up and coming” would be a major understatement. A combination of low taxes and a great real estate market have spurred enormous growth, including a population that’s increased by more than 400% in the last decade.
Don’t be concerned that all the growth has hurt the character of this Rocky Mountain gem—there’s still an abundance of open space and a wealth of opportunities for fun outdoors, including St. Vrain’s State Park for camping and hiking.
Median family income is a bit under $90,000 and the average home sells for about $217,000—so you can be sure to find some great bargains on homes at all price levels. The downtown area is still a bit sparse, but there are plenty of movie theaters, restaurants, libraries and museums with a short (15-mile) drive. View all Firestone homes for sale.
If you’re planning a move to Colorado, or a move within Colorado, contact us to find a great deal on a luxury home. We’re here to help!