Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lamar, CO
Considering a move to Lamar, CO? With a welcoming population of 7,650, this small city offers affordable living—median home prices are around $117,000 and average rents just $740. Residents enjoy short commutes averaging 14 minutes, a sunny High Plains climate with 73% sunny days, and local amenities like Lamar Community College. While property crime rates are higher than average, Lamar provides accessible healthcare and a friendly, close-knit atmosphere perfect for those seeking a quieter pace of life.
Demographics - Lamar, CO
Lamar is home to about 7,650 residents, with a median age of 34.8 years, reflecting a youthful, family-oriented community. The city boasts a diverse population, with nearly 20% speaking a language other than English at home and a majority identifying as white, complemented by a significant mix of other backgrounds. Its moderate population density offers a blend of small-town comfort and neighborly connection.
Population:
7,650
Density:
1,350 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.8
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
19.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
70.9%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
26.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lamar, CO?
Lamar offers a notably affordable cost of living, with median home values around $117,000 and average rents at $740 per month. Essential expenses like utilities and groceries are below national averages, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families and retirees. Colorado’s flat state income tax of 4.4% further supports financial ease for residents.
Median House Value:
$117,000
Gross Rent:
$740
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,030
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
4.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.9
Grocery:
93.8
Housing:
54.4
Utilities:
95.0
Transportation:
91.2
Health Care:
94.5
Miscellaneous:
85.0
Crime
Is Lamar, CO a safe place to live?
While Lamar maintains a welcoming small-town feel, property crime rates are higher than the national average, with a resident’s chance of experiencing property crime at about 1 in 36. Violent crime is less common, with a rate of 370 incidents per 100,000 people. Prospective residents should remain attentive to home and personal security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
370
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,800
Crime Index:
3,170
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 270
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 36
Weather
What is the weather like in Lamar, CO year-round?
Lamar features a classic High Plains climate, enjoying 73% sunny days each year and modest annual rainfall of 15 inches. Summers can be warm, with highs reaching the mid-90s, while winters are cold but manageable, with lows averaging around 17°F. The city experiences four distinct seasons, perfect for those who appreciate seasonal variety.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
48°F
Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
94°F
Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
15.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
Residents of Lamar enjoy a friendly, tight-knit community with a median household income of $44,600 and an average commute of just under 14 minutes. The area has a higher-than-average poverty rate at 17.2%, but most neighbors have at least a high school education. The community’s diversity and low public transport usage reflect its rural Colorado character.
Median Income:
$30,600
Household Income:
$44,600
Family Income:
$53,400
Per Capita Income:
$21,800
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$29,000
Poverty Rate:
17.2%
Non English Speakers:
19.2%
Rent:
$740
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
13.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
78.8%
Bachelors or More:
15.4%
Education
How are the schools in Lamar, CO?
Lamar offers comprehensive educational opportunities, including public schools like Lamar High School and Alta Vista Charter School, which feature supportive class sizes. Higher education is available locally at Lamar Community College, serving over 1,100 students. While there are no private schools, the city’s commitment to education meets the needs of families and lifelong learners.
Public Schools
Name:
Lamar High School
Street:
1900 S 11th St
Phone:
719-336-3488
Students:
460
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Alta Vista Charter School
Street:
504 College Rd
Phone:
719-336-2000
Students:
120
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.4
Colleges
Name:
Lamar Community College
City:
Lamar
State:
CO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,100
Healthcare
Lamar offers accessible healthcare through Prowers Medical Center, which provides emergency services and general care. With 1.3 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 87% health insurance coverage, basic medical needs are well supported locally. The city’s healthcare index indicates reliable services for families and seniors.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Prowers Medical Center
Address:
401 Kendall Dr, Lamar, CO 81052
Phone:
(719) 336-4343
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.2%
Health Care Index:
68.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lamar, CO?
The housing market in Lamar is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $117,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 62.5%. Rental options are also readily available, as indicated by a 7.7% vacancy rate and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $740. Home values have seen steady appreciation, making it an appealing place for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$117,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$740
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Lamar residents are served by the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles, with convenient access to statewide services. The main office is located in Denver, but many transactions can be completed online or by phone at 303-205-5600. The DMV provides licensing, registration, and other vehicle services for Colorado drivers.
State:
Colorado
Department:
Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3501 W. Oxford Ave, Denver, CO 80236
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.