Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Durango, CO
Considering a move to Durango, CO? This scenic city of 19,500 offers a vibrant lifestyle with a median home price around $615,000 and average rents near $1,750. Residents enjoy a sunny climate with 71% sunny days, quick 15-minute commutes, and access to quality education via Fort Lewis College and strong local schools. While housing costs are above average and property crime rates slightly elevated, Durango’s outdoor recreation, community spirit, and easy access to healthcare make it a top pick for adventure lovers and families alike.
Demographics - Durango, CO
Demographics - Durango, CO
Durango is home to about 19,500 residents, with a median age of 32.9 and a diverse community where over 80% are White and 12.6% are Hispanic. The city maintains a balanced gender ratio and a youthful atmosphere, making it attractive for young professionals and families. With 7.2% of residents speaking a language other than English, Durango offers a welcoming environment for newcomers.
Population:
19,500
Density:
1,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
32.9
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
82.1%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
1.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Durango, CO?
Durango’s cost of living is higher than the national average, with a median home price of $615,000 and average rent around $1,750 per month. Housing is the primary driver of expenses, but utilities and healthcare remain relatively affordable. Residents benefit from a flat state income tax rate of 4.4%, making budgeting more predictable.
Median House Value:
$615,000
Gross Rent:
$1,750
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,250
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$790
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
4.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
129.0
Grocery:
110.0
Housing:
148.0
Utilities:
92.0
Transportation:
110.0
Health Care:
96.0
Miscellaneous:
106.0
Crime
Is Durango, CO a safe place to live?
Durango experiences a moderate crime rate, with property crime being more common than violent offenses. The chance of experiencing a property crime is about 1 in 45, while violent crime risk is lower at 1 in 455. While caution is advised, the community remains generally safe and welcoming.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
220
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,240
Crime Index:
2,460
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 455
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in Durango, CO year-round?
Durango enjoys a sunny climate with roughly 71% sunny days each year, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Winters are cold, with lows near 15°F, while summers are warm and pleasant, reaching highs of 86°F. The city receives about 19 inches of annual rainfall, contributing to its lush surroundings.

Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
40°F

Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
86°F

Fall
Min:
35°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
19 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
71%
Neighbors
Residents of Durango benefit from a median household income of $68,500 and a low unemployment rate of 2.8%. The community is well-educated, with over half holding a bachelor's degree or higher, and average commute times are a quick 15.5 minutes. Despite a poverty rate of 14.5%, the city’s quality of life and neighborly spirit remain strong.
Median Income:
$33,000
Household Income:
$68,500
Family Income:
$89,000
Per Capita Income:
$36,900
Income Male:
$43,200
Income Female:
$30,400
Poverty Rate:
14.5%
Non English Speakers:
7.2%
Rent:
$1,750
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
15.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
96.4%
Bachelors or More:
54.1%
Education
How are the schools in Durango, CO?
Durango offers strong educational opportunities, with highly rated public schools like Durango High School and a variety of private options. The community is served by Fort Lewis College, enrolling around 3,300 students and enriching the city’s academic and cultural environment. Families appreciate the city’s commitment to quality education at all levels.

Public Schools
Name:
Durango High School
Street:
2390 Main Ave
Phone:
970-259-1630
Students:
1,065
Student Teacher Ratio:
17:1
Name:
Escalante Middle School
Street:
141 Baker Ln
Phone:
970-247-9490
Students:
525
Student Teacher Ratio:
16:1

Private Schools
Name:
St. Columba School
Street:
1801 E 2nd Ave
Phone:
970-247-5527
Students:
230

Colleges
Name:
Fort Lewis College
City:
Durango
State:
CO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,300
Healthcare
Durango provides quality healthcare services, anchored by Mercy Hospital and a physician-to-resident ratio of 2.1 per 1,000 people. Over 90% of residents have health insurance coverage, ensuring access to essential medical care. The city’s healthcare index is favorable, supporting both families and retirees.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Mercy Hospital Durango
Address:
1010 Three Springs Blvd, Durango, CO 81301
Phone:
(970) 247-4311
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.5%
Health Care Index:
70.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Durango, CO?
Durango’s housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $615,000 and a 6.1% annual appreciation rate. About 54.5% of homes are owner-occupied, and the rental vacancy rate is a low 4.1%, reflecting high demand. New construction remains limited, so buyers and renters should act quickly.
Median Home Price:
$615,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,750
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Durango’s motor vehicle services are provided by the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located at 329 S. Camino Del Rio. Residents can access standard DMV services, including licensing and registration, by phone or online. The DMV’s local office supports a smooth transition for new arrivals moving to the area.
State:
Colorado
Department:
Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
329 S. Camino Del Rio, Durango, CO 81303
Phone:
970-247-4591
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.