Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Salida, CO
Thinking of moving to Salida, CO? This charming mountain town of about 5,800 residents boasts abundant sunshine (69% sunny days), quick commutes averaging just 13 minutes, and a strong sense of community. While home prices hover around $510,000 and rents average $1,360, Salida offers a relaxed lifestyle with access to quality healthcare, good schools, and outdoor recreation. Crime rates are relatively low, and the cost of living sits just above the national average, making Salida a welcoming spot for families, retirees, and adventure-seekers alike.
Demographics - Salida, CO
Demographics - Salida, CO
Salida is a tight-knit mountain community with a population of approximately 5,800, a median age of 48.1, and a predominantly White demographic. The city has a near-even gender ratio and a small percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a welcoming and close community feel.
Population:
5,800
Density:
1,350 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.1
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
91.2%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
7.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Salida, CO?
Living in Salida comes with a cost of living index of 117.5, slightly higher than the national average, mainly due to housing expenses, with median home values around $510,000 and average rents at $1,360. Other essentials like groceries and utilities remain close to national norms, making Salida affordable compared to other Colorado mountain towns.
Median House Value:
$510,000
Gross Rent:
$1,360
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$100
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$590
State Taxes:
Low:
4.40%
|
High:
4.40%
Cost Of Living Index:
117.5
Grocery:
104.2
Housing:
147.0
Utilities:
94.0
Transportation:
103.5
Health Care:
105.0
Miscellaneous:
101.0
Crime
Is Salida, CO a safe place to live?
Salida offers a relatively safe environment, with a violent crime rate of 213 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,794 per 100,000. Residents have a low chance of encountering violent crime, contributing to the city's family-friendly and peaceful atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
213
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,794
Crime Index:
2,007
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 470
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 56
Weather
What is the weather like in Salida, CO year-round?
Residents of Salida enjoy a sunny climate, with about 69% sunny days annually and moderate precipitation of 11.5 inches per year. Seasonal temperatures range from cold winters with lows around 10°F to warm summers reaching highs of 86°F, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Winter
Min:
10°F
Max:
40°F

Spring
Min:
24°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
48°F
Max:
86°F

Fall
Min:
27°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
11.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
69%
Neighbors
Salida’s residents benefit from a median household income of $62,700 and a low unemployment rate of 2.9%. With high educational attainment—over 41% holding a bachelor's degree or higher—and an average commute of just 13 minutes, the city offers a comfortable and connected lifestyle.
Median Income:
$35,500
Household Income:
$62,700
Family Income:
$78,100
Per Capita Income:
$35,900
Income Male:
$41,200
Income Female:
$32,800
Poverty Rate:
10.4%
Non English Speakers:
5.8%
Rent:
$1,360
Unemployment Rate:
2.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
13.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
94.2%
Bachelors or More:
41.5%
Education
How are the schools in Salida, CO?
Salida provides quality education through its public and private schools, including Salida High School and Longfellow Elementary, as well as local access to Colorado Mountain College. With favorable student-teacher ratios and a high rate of residents holding college degrees, the city supports lifelong learning opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Salida High School
Street:
26 Jones Ave
Phone:
719-530-5400
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.7
Name:
Longfellow Elementary School
Street:
425 W 7th St
Phone:
719-530-5260
Students:
450
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2

Private Schools
Name:
The Crest Academy
Street:
627 Oak St
Phone:
719-539-2726
Students:
70

Colleges
Name:
Colorado Mountain College - Salida
City:
Salida
State:
CO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
180
Name:
Western Colorado University
City:
Gunnison
State:
CO
Distance:
65 miles
Students:
2,900
Healthcare
Healthcare in Salida is reliable, anchored by the Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center and supported by 2.5 physicians per 1,000 residents. Over 92% of locals have health insurance, ensuring good access to medical services for the community.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center
Address:
1000 Rush Dr, Salida, CO 81201
Phone:
(719) 530-2200
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.6%
Health Care Index:
78.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Salida, CO?
Salida’s housing market features a median home price of $510,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,360, reflecting strong demand and an 8.2% annual appreciation rate. With a 62.8% owner-occupancy rate and low foreclosure numbers, the market is stable and competitive.
Median Home Price:
$510,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,360
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
8.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Residents can handle all vehicle and licensing needs locally at the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles located at 448 E 1st St, Salida. The office offers convenient access to state DMV services and information through its website and phone support.
State:
Colorado
Department:
Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
448 E 1st St, Salida, CO 81201
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.