Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Chimney Rock, CO
Thinking about a peaceful move to Chimney Rock, CO? This small community of about 250 residents offers stunning natural beauty, affordable housing with median prices around $380,000, and a cost of living that's lower than many Colorado towns. Enjoy a high rate of sunny days (71% annually), low crime, and a tranquil rural lifestyle. Commutes average 29 minutes, and while schools and amenities are nearby in Pagosa Springs, outdoor recreation and gorgeous mountain views are right at your doorstep.
Demographics - Chimney Rock, CO
Demographics - Chimney Rock, CO
Chimney Rock, CO is a close-knit rural community with a population of just 250 and a notably high median age of 54, reflecting its appeal to retirees and those seeking a slower pace of life. The area is predominantly White (84%), with a small but present diversity, and about 7% of residents speak a language other than English at home.
Population:
250
Density:
12 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.0
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
84.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.3%
Others:
15.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Chimney Rock, CO?
The cost of living in Chimney Rock is moderate, with a median home value of $380,000 and average rent around $1,300, making it relatively affordable by Colorado standards. Utility costs and state taxes are reasonable, and overall expenses are just slightly above the national average, offering good value for those seeking a rural lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$380,000
Gross Rent:
$1,300
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,550
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$550
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
4.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
107.5
Grocery:
102.0
Housing:
120.5
Utilities:
93.0
Transportation:
104.0
Health Care:
108.0
Miscellaneous:
100.0
Crime
Is Chimney Rock, CO a safe place to live?
Chimney Rock enjoys a low crime rate, with violent crime being especially rare at just 114 incidents per 100,000 people—much lower than many urban areas. The risk of property crime is also low, contributing to the area’s reputation as a safe and peaceful place to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
114
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,020
Crime Index:
1,134
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 877
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 98
Weather
What is the weather like in Chimney Rock, CO year-round?
Residents experience distinct seasons, with mild summers reaching up to 85°F and winters that can dip to 10°F. The area boasts 71% sunny days annually and receives about 17.5 inches of rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate clear skies and mountain scenery.
Winter
Min:
10°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
45°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
25°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
17.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
71%
Neighbors
Households in Chimney Rock typically have a median income of $40,000, with family incomes averaging $68,000 and an unemployment rate of just 3.8%. Most residents have completed high school, and the community maintains a welcoming and neighborly atmosphere, with a modest poverty rate of 12.5%.
Median Income:
$40,000
Household Income:
$62,000
Family Income:
$68,000
Per Capita Income:
$31,000
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$31,500
Poverty Rate:
12.5%
Non English Speakers:
7.0%
Rent:
$1,300
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
29.0 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.5%
Bachelors or More:
23.0%
Education
How are the schools in Chimney Rock, CO?
Public schooling options are available in nearby Pagosa Springs, with elementary and middle schools offering manageable student-teacher ratios under 16:1. For higher education, Fort Lewis College in Durango is about 52 miles away, providing additional opportunities for students in the region.
Public Schools
Name:
Pagosa Springs Elementary School
Street:
141 S 10th St
Phone:
970-264-2229
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Pagosa Springs Middle School
Street:
309 Lewis St
Phone:
970-264-2794
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.8
Colleges
Name:
Fort Lewis College
City:
Durango
State:
CO
Distance:
52 miles
Students:
3,300
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is convenient, with major hospitals like Pagosa Springs Medical Center and Mercy Regional Medical Center nearby, offering comprehensive services and emergency care. The community is well-served with 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 90% health insurance coverage.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Pagosa Springs Medical Center
Address:
95 S Pagosa Blvd, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Phone:
(970) 731-3700
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
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:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.2%
Health Care Index:
75.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Chimney Rock, CO?
Chimney Rock's housing market is stable and attractive, with a median home price of $380,000 and a high owner-occupied rate of 78.5%. Home values have appreciated by 7.2% over the past year, and rental options remain accessible with low vacancy and foreclosure rates.
Median Home Price:
$380,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,300
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents can access motor vehicle services through the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles office located in nearby Pagosa Springs, which provides convenient DMV assistance and resources for all licensing and vehicle needs.
State:
Colorado
Department:
Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
160 Driving Park Rd, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
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.