Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Boulder, CO
Moving to Boulder, CO? With a population of 104,175, Boulder is known for its vibrant college-town atmosphere, world-class outdoor recreation, and exceptional educational attainment—over 75% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The city offers a sunny, dry climate with 60% sunny days per year, a short 21-minute average commute, and strong healthcare access. While housing is pricey (median home price is $941,000; average rent $2,180), you’ll enjoy a lively, youthful community with top schools, abundant amenities, and a high quality of life.
Demographics - Boulder, CO
Demographics - Boulder, CO
Boulder is home to just over 104,000 residents, with a youthful median age of 28.6, reflecting its vibrant college-town energy. The city features a diverse community, with about 77% identifying as White and a significant portion of non-English speakers at 10%. High population density and a slight male-majority make Boulder dynamic and bustling.
Population:
104,175
Density:
4,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
28.6
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
77.5%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
5.6%
Others:
15.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Boulder, CO?
Boulder’s cost of living is notably high, driven by a median home value of $941,000 and average rent around $2,180, which reflects the city’s desirability and strong economy. Utility and transportation costs are close to the national average, but housing and overall expenses are well above. Residents benefit from moderate state taxes, but should budget for higher housing costs.
Median House Value:
$941,000
Gross Rent:
$2,180
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$92
Auto Insurance:
$1,670
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,640
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$870
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
4.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
167.4
Grocery:
106.7
Housing:
290.5
Utilities:
90.2
Transportation:
98.5
Health Care:
106.4
Miscellaneous:
106.9
Crime
Is Boulder, CO a safe place to live?
Boulder experiences moderate crime levels, with a violent crime rate of 354 per 100,000 and a property crime chance of 1 in 29. While most incidents are related to property, overall safety remains in line with many urban communities. New residents should remain aware but can expect a generally safe environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
354
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,457
Crime Index:
3,811
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 282
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 29
Weather
What is the weather like in Boulder, CO year-round?
Boulder offers a sunny, semi-arid climate with 60% of days being sunny and annual rainfall just over 20 inches. Winters are cold but manageable, while summers are warm and dry, perfect for outdoor pursuits. The city’s four distinct seasons make it ideal for residents who enjoy changing weather throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
45°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
20.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Boulder’s residents are well-educated, with over 75% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, and enjoy a median household income of $72,279. The city has a low unemployment rate of 2.9% and an average commute of just 21 minutes, supporting an active, professional lifestyle. Despite a higher cost of living, the community is engaged and enjoys easy access to amenities and public transport.
Median Income:
$46,400
Household Income:
$72,279
Family Income:
$109,000
Per Capita Income:
$48,100
Income Male:
$56,000
Income Female:
$43,800
Poverty Rate:
19.7%
Non English Speakers:
10.3%
Rent:
$2,180
Unemployment Rate:
2.9%
Public Transport Usage:
6.1%
Commute Time:
21.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.5%
Bachelors or More:
75.2%
Education
How are the schools in Boulder, CO?
Boulder is renowned for excellent public and private schools, with high graduation rates and student achievement. It is home to the University of Colorado Boulder, a major research university with 36,000 students, and several well-rated K-12 schools. Educational opportunities abound, making Boulder ideal for families and lifelong learners.
Public Schools
Name:
Boulder High School
Street:
1604 Arapahoe Ave
Phone:
720-561-2200
Students:
2,160
Student Teacher Ratio:
20:1
Name:
Summit Middle Charter School
Street:
4655 Hanover Ave
Phone:
720-561-3900
Students:
360
Student Teacher Ratio:
16:1
Private Schools
Name:
Boulder Country Day School
Street:
4820 Nautilus Ct N
Phone:
303-527-4931
Students:
350
Colleges
Name:
University of Colorado Boulder
City:
Boulder
State:
CO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
36,000
Name:
Naropa University
City:
Boulder
State:
CO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
900
Healthcare
Boulder boasts excellent healthcare access, including major hospitals like Boulder Community Health, and has 3.6 physicians per 1,000 residents. Nearly 95% of the population is insured, and the city is known for its strong health outcomes and wellness culture. Residents benefit from comprehensive medical facilities and emergency services close to home.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Boulder Community Health - Foothills Hospital
Address:
4747 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, CO 80303
Phone:
(303) 415-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
UCHealth Urgent Care - Boulder
Address:
5495 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, CO 80303
Phone:
(303) 686-5800
Type:
Urgent Care
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
3.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.7%
Health Care Index:
76.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Boulder, CO?
The Boulder housing market is competitive, with a median home price nearing $1 million and average rent for a two-bedroom at $2,180. Around 47% of homes are owner-occupied, and the vacancy rate is low, highlighting strong demand. Home values show steady appreciation, making Boulder attractive for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$941,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,180
Owner Occupied Rate:
47.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.8%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing in Boulder are handled by the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles located on Iris Ave, offering convenient access for local residents. The DMV provides standard driver services and information online or by phone. Newcomers will find the process straightforward and well-supported.
State:
Colorado
Department:
Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2850 Iris Ave, Suite F, Boulder, CO 80301
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.