Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bayfield, CO
Considering a move to Bayfield, CO? This friendly town of about 2,700 offers affordable living with a median home price around $388,000 and average rents near $1,350. Bayfield boasts low violent crime rates, short 23-minute average commutes, and a high school graduation rate above 93%. With over 260 sunny days a year and easy access to outdoor recreation, Bayfield is ideal for those seeking a small-town feel with access to quality schools and beautiful mountain scenery.
Demographics - Bayfield, CO
Demographics - Bayfield, CO
Bayfield is a small town with a population of around 2,720, featuring a youthful median age of 34.2 and a close gender balance. The community is predominantly White (84%), with Hispanic, Native American, and other groups contributing to the area's diversity. A modest percentage of residents speak languages other than English, reflecting a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Population:
2,720
Density:
1,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.2
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
84.0%
Others:
2.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bayfield, CO?
Living in Bayfield is moderately affordable, with a median home value of $388,000 and average rent at $1,350 a month. The cost of living index is slightly above the national average, mainly due to housing, while utilities and daily expenses remain reasonable. State income taxes are consistent at 4.4%, making Bayfield an accessible choice for homebuyers and renters alike.
Median House Value:
$388,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,940
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$540
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
4.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
108
Grocery:
104
Housing:
112
Utilities:
95
Transportation:
105
Health Care:
101
Miscellaneous:
102
Crime
Is Bayfield, CO a safe place to live?
Bayfield enjoys a notably low violent crime rate, with only about 125 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate that remains below many urban areas. Residents have a relatively low chance of experiencing violent crime—about 1 in 800—making the town a safe place for families and individuals. The overall crime index suggests a peaceful, close-knit community environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
125
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,250
Crime Index:
1,375
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 800
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 80
Weather
What is the weather like in Bayfield, CO year-round?
Bayfield experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters dipping to 13°F and warm summers reaching up to 86°F. The town enjoys 67% sunny days and receives about 16.6 inches of rainfall annually, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The climate is ideal for those who appreciate clear skies and a mountain setting.
Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
40°F
Spring
Min:
29°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
49°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
28°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
16.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
67%
Neighbors
Bayfield's residents enjoy a median household income of $71,200 and a low poverty rate of 7.8%, reflecting a stable local economy. Over 93% of adults have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute is about 23 minutes. The community is characterized by steady employment, low unemployment, and a welcoming small-town vibe.
Median Income:
$32,900
Household Income:
$71,200
Family Income:
$77,500
Per Capita Income:
$30,600
Income Male:
$40,200
Income Female:
$35,100
Poverty Rate:
7.8%
Non English Speakers:
7.6%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
3.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
22.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.5%
Bachelors or More:
28.4%
Education
How are the schools in Bayfield, CO?
Bayfield offers quality educational options with well-rated public schools, such as Bayfield Middle and High School, both featuring low student-teacher ratios. For private education, Pine River Valley Christian School is available, and Fort Lewis College in Durango is just 18 miles away for higher education. The area’s schools are known for strong graduation rates and supportive learning environments.
Public Schools
Name:
Bayfield Middle School
Street:
615 E. Oak Dr
Phone:
970-884-2496
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.1
Name:
Bayfield High School
Street:
800 County Road 501
Phone:
970-884-9521
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.3
Private Schools
Name:
Pine River Valley Christian School
Street:
11942 CO-172
Phone:
970-884-2668
Students:
75
Colleges
Name:
Fort Lewis College
City:
Durango
State:
CO
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
3,300
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Bayfield is strong, with Mercy Regional Medical Center nearby and about 1.9 physicians per 1,000 residents. Health insurance coverage is high at 91%, supporting overall community well-being. The area offers reliable emergency and general medical services, making it a reassuring choice for families and retirees.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mercy Regional Medical Center
Address:
1010 Three Springs Blvd, Durango, CO 81301
Phone:
(970) 247-4311
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.0%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bayfield, CO?
Bayfield's housing market is robust, with a median home price of $388,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of nearly 70%. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $1,350 and a low vacancy rate of 4.8%. Home values have appreciated by over 4% in the past year, reflecting steady growth and investment potential.
Median Home Price:
$388,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
69.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Bayfield residents are served by the Colorado Department of Revenue – Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in nearby Durango. Essential DMV services, including licensing and vehicle registration, are easily accessible both in-person and online. The office provides comprehensive support for new residents and long-time locals alike.
State:
Colorado
Department:
Colorado Department of Revenue – Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2130 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301
Phone:
(303) 205-5600
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.