Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Paonia, CO
Considering a move to Paonia, CO? This charming town of 1,470 offers affordable median home prices around $335,000 and average rents near $970, making it accessible for many budgets. Enjoy a mild climate with over 70% sunny days each year and short average commutes of 22 minutes. Paonia boasts a low violent crime rate (165 per 100K), local K-8 schools, and easy access to natural beauty—ideal for those seeking a small-town, active lifestyle in western Colorado.
Demographics - Paonia, CO
Demographics - Paonia, CO
Paonia is a close-knit town of 1,470 residents, with a median age of 47.1, reflecting a mature community atmosphere. The population is predominantly White, with about 7% speaking a language other than English at home, providing a touch of diversity. Its moderate population density encourages a friendly, small-town feel.
Population:
1,470
Density:
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.1
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
92.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
6.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Paonia, CO?
Paonia offers a cost of living slightly below the national average, with median home values around $335,000 and average rents near $970 per month. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, and Colorado’s flat 4.4% income tax rate helps keep expenses manageable. This makes Paonia an accessible choice for individuals and families seeking affordability in western Colorado.
Median House Value:
$335,000
Gross Rent:
$970
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,340
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,275
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
4.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.6
Grocery:
97.2
Housing:
93.1
Utilities:
97.0
Transportation:
101.5
Health Care:
99.2
Miscellaneous:
96.5
Crime
Is Paonia, CO a safe place to live?
Paonia has a notably low violent crime rate of 165 incidents per 100,000 people, making it a safe option for residents. Property crime is more common, with a 1 in 73 chance, but overall crime rates remain below urban averages. The community’s secure environment is appealing for those seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
165
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,370
Crime Index:
1,535
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 606
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 73
Weather
What is the weather like in Paonia, CO year-round?
Residents of Paonia enjoy a mild, sunny climate with 71% of days each year seeing sunshine. Summers are warm with highs near 89°F, while winters are cold but manageable, dipping to lows of 15°F. The area receives about 13 inches of rainfall annually, supporting its lush surroundings and outdoor lifestyle.

Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
38°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
66°F

Summer
Min:
53°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
71%
Neighbors
Paonia’s households have a median income of approximately $50,720, with a poverty rate of 13.8%. The community boasts high educational attainment, with over 92% having completed high school, and most people enjoy a short 22-minute average commute. Low public transit usage reflects the town’s rural character and reliance on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$30,400
Household Income:
$50,720
Family Income:
$60,800
Per Capita Income:
$25,400
Income Male:
$33,800
Income Female:
$28,700
Poverty Rate:
13.8%
Non English Speakers:
7.2%
Rent:
$970
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
21.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
92.5%
Bachelors or More:
29.1%
Education
How are the schools in Paonia, CO?
Paonia offers a well-regarded public K-8 school with a student–teacher ratio of 15.8, as well as a small private academy for families seeking alternative education. For higher education, Colorado Mesa University is within driving distance, offering a range of programs for local students. The town’s strong educational attainment highlights its commitment to learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Paonia K-8
Street:
846 Grand Ave
Phone:
970-527-3639
Students:
360
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8

Private Schools
Name:
Paonia Christian Academy
Street:
603 4th St
Phone:
970-527-3696
Students:
32

Colleges
Name:
Colorado Mesa University
City:
Grand Junction
State:
CO
Distance:
70 miles
Students:
10,700
Healthcare
Residents have access to Delta County Memorial Hospital, a full-service facility located nearby in Delta, and benefit from a high rate of health insurance coverage at 91.7%. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people, Paonia provides solid healthcare resources for a small town. The healthcare index indicates services are both accessible and affordable.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Delta County Memorial Hospital
Address:
1501 E 3rd St, Delta, CO 81416
Phone:
(970) 874-7681
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.7%
Health Care Index:
78.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Paonia, CO?
Paonia’s housing market features a median home price of $335,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $970, making homeownership and renting attainable for many. A majority of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has seen a 6.2% appreciation in home values over the past year, reflecting steady demand. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates contribute to a stable market.
Median Home Price:
$335,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$970
Owner Occupied Rate:
63.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Paonia residents access DMV services through the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles office in nearby Montrose, about 30 miles away. The office provides all standard vehicle registration and licensing services. Helpful resources and information can be found on the Colorado DMV website.
State:
Colorado
Department:
Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
222 S. 6th Street, Room 104, Montrose, CO 81401
Phone:
970-249-3362
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.