Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fort Collins, CO
Thinking of moving to Fort Collins, CO? Home to about 169,000 residents and Colorado State University, Fort Collins offers a vibrant, youthful vibe and over 70% sunny days each year. The median home price is around $540,000, with average rents near $1,640, reflecting a popular and growing housing market. Residents enjoy short average commutes (20 minutes), excellent educational opportunities, and a strong outdoor lifestyle. While property crime rates are somewhat higher than national averages, the city’s strong community feel, high educational attainment, and mild climate make it a top choice for new arrivals.
Demographics - Fort Collins, CO
Demographics - Fort Collins, CO
Fort Collins is a youthful and diverse city with a population of 169,249 and a median age of just over 29 years, reflecting its vibrant college-town atmosphere. The community is predominantly White, but includes a mix of other ethnicities and about 11% non-English speakers, contributing to a welcoming and inclusive environment. Balanced gender ratios and a moderate population density make it an appealing place for families, students, and professionals alike.
Population:
169,249
Density:
3,020 per sq mi
Median Age:
29.3
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
83.2%
Black:
1.4%
Asian:
3.4%
Others:
12.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fort Collins, CO?
Living in Fort Collins comes with a slightly higher cost of living, with a median home value of $540,000 and average rent around $1,640. Utilities and groceries are moderately priced, while housing costs are the primary factor driving the cost of living index above the national average. State income taxes are a flat 4.4%, making budgeting straightforward for new residents.
Median House Value:
$540,000
Gross Rent:
$1,640
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$95
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,420
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$765
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
4.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
117.3
Grocery:
104.6
Housing:
137.5
Utilities:
89.5
Transportation:
103.2
Health Care:
105.8
Miscellaneous:
101.9
Crime
Is Fort Collins, CO a safe place to live?
Fort Collins offers a generally safe environment, with violent crime rates well below national averages and a 1 in 472 chance of experiencing such incidents. However, property crime is somewhat more common, with a 1 in 50 chance, so residents should take standard precautions. The city's overall crime index still supports a reputation as a secure and family-friendly community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
212
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,002
Crime Index:
2,214
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 472
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 50
Weather
What is the weather like in Fort Collins, CO year-round?
Residents enjoy over 70% sunny days each year, with mild summers reaching highs around 87°F and winters that are cold but not extreme, typically in the 40s. Rainfall is moderate at about 16 inches annually, supporting a variety of outdoor activities throughout the seasons. The climate is ideal for those who value sunshine and a distinct change of seasons.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
43°F
Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
15.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
71%
Neighbors
Households in Fort Collins benefit from a median income of $75,700 and an educated population, with over half holding a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average just 20 minutes, and unemployment remains low at 3.3%, making the city attractive for working professionals and families. The area is generally prosperous, though a 14% poverty rate highlights some economic diversity.
Median Income:
$43,000
Household Income:
$75,700
Family Income:
$105,200
Per Capita Income:
$38,800
Income Male:
$51,100
Income Female:
$41,400
Poverty Rate:
14.2%
Non English Speakers:
10.8%
Rent:
$1,640
Unemployment Rate:
3.3%
Public Transport Usage:
2.4%
Commute Time:
20.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.1%
Bachelors or More:
54.4%
Education
How are the schools in Fort Collins, CO?
Education is a strong suit in Fort Collins, with high-performing public and private schools, and renowned institutions like Colorado State University anchoring the city. Students benefit from excellent academic resources and a vibrant campus life, while families appreciate the variety of schooling options. The city’s emphasis on education contributes to its reputation as a great place for lifelong learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Fossil Ridge High School
Street:
5400 Ziegler Rd
Phone:
970-488-6260
Students:
2,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
21.4
Name:
Lesher Middle School
Street:
1400 Stover St
Phone:
970-472-3800
Students:
830
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2
Private Schools
Name:
Rivendell School
Street:
1800 E Prospect Rd
Phone:
970-493-9052
Students:
160
Colleges
Name:
Colorado State University
City:
Fort Collins
State:
CO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
33,400
Name:
Front Range Community College (Larimer Campus)
City:
Fort Collins
State:
CO
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
8,000
Healthcare
Fort Collins is well-served by major hospitals like UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital and Banner Fort Collins Medical Center, both offering comprehensive care and emergency services. With 2.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% health insurance coverage, locals have strong access to medical care. The city's healthcare index reflects reliable and quality services for both routine and emergency needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital
Address:
1024 S Lemay Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524
Phone:
(970) 495-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Banner Fort Collins Medical Center
Address:
4700 Lady Moon Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80528
Phone:
(970) 821-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.6%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fort Collins, CO?
The housing market in Fort Collins is competitive, with a median home price of $540,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,640. About 55% of residents own their homes, and vacancy rates are manageable, indicating steady demand and ongoing growth. Modest annual appreciation and low foreclosure rates make it a stable market for buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$540,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,640
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles in Fort Collins is conveniently located on South College Avenue, offering a full range of driver and vehicle services. Residents can access resources both in person and online through the state DMV website. Friendly staff and efficient service make vehicle registration and licensing a straightforward process for newcomers.
State:
Colorado
Department:
Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3030 S College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525
Phone:
970-494-9804
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.