Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Vail, CO
Considering a move to Vail, CO? This picturesque mountain town of 4,900 residents is famous for its world-class skiing, vibrant outdoor lifestyle, and stunning scenery. Expect a higher cost of living, with median home prices around $1.25M and average rents at $2,350, but enjoy a low commute time (13.4 minutes) and excellent schools. Vail boasts low crime rates, plentiful sunny days (59%), and easy access to healthcare and recreation, making it an ideal spot for adventure seekers and families alike.
Demographics - Vail, CO
Vail is a close-knit mountain community of about 4,900 people, with a median age of 41.7 and a slightly higher number of males than females. The population is predominantly White (84.2%), with a notable Hispanic presence (13.6%) and a significant proportion of residents speaking languages other than English at home. The town's moderate density and diverse backgrounds create a welcoming environment for newcomers.
Population:
4,900
Density:
1,070 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.7
Gender Ratio:
106 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
16.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
84.2%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
1.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Vail, CO?
Living in Vail comes with a higher price tag, as median home values reach $1,250,000 and the cost of living index is well above the national average. Residents can expect to pay around $2,350 in rent and enjoy relatively low state income taxes at 4.4%. Expenses for groceries, transportation, and healthcare are also elevated, reflecting Vail’s status as a premium resort destination.
Median House Value:
$1,250,000
Gross Rent:
$2,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$95
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,400
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$950
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
4.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
178.0
Grocery:
121.4
Housing:
312.0
Utilities:
92.5
Transportation:
110.3
Health Care:
101.0
Miscellaneous:
107.0
Crime
Is Vail, CO a safe place to live?
Vail offers a safe environment, with violent crime rates significantly below the national average—just 187 incidents per 100,000 people. The probability of being a victim of violent crime is low, about 1 in 535, making it a reassuring choice for families and individuals. Property crime is also relatively uncommon, contributing to the town's overall sense of security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
187
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,020
Crime Index:
1,207
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 535
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 98
Weather
What is the weather like in Vail, CO year-round?
Vail experiences true Rocky Mountain weather, with cold, snowy winters and mild, sunny summers. Average temperatures range from winter lows of 7°F to summer highs of 75°F, and the area enjoys 59% sunny days alongside approximately 23 inches of annual rainfall. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the distinct four seasons and abundant sunshine.
Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
22°F
Max:
54°F
Summer
Min:
41°F
Max:
75°F
Fall
Min:
20°F
Max:
57°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
22.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
Vail’s residents enjoy a comfortable lifestyle, with a median household income of $85,400 and a low unemployment rate of 3.1%. Most neighbors are highly educated, with over half holding at least a bachelor’s degree, and the poverty rate remains below 8%. Commutes are short, averaging just over 13 minutes, reflecting the town’s compact layout.
Median Income:
$42,000
Household Income:
$85,400
Family Income:
$108,000
Per Capita Income:
$60,500
Income Male:
$48,000
Income Female:
$41,000
Poverty Rate:
7.8%
Non English Speakers:
16.5%
Rent:
$2,350
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
7.6%
Commute Time:
13.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.2%
Bachelors or More:
53.6%
Education
How are the schools in Vail, CO?
Vail offers excellent educational opportunities, including well-rated public schools with low student-teacher ratios and a private college-preparatory school. Nearby Colorado Mountain College provides higher education just 16 miles away, making the area attractive for families and lifelong learners. The community supports strong academic achievement and a variety of extracurricular options.
Public Schools
Name:
Vail Ski & Snowboard Academy
Street:
948 Chambers Ave, Eagle
Phone:
970-328-2832
Students:
175
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5
Name:
Red Sandstone Elementary School
Street:
551 N Frontage Rd W, Vail
Phone:
970-328-2910
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.2
Private Schools
Name:
Vail Mountain School
Street:
3000 Booth Falls Rd, Vail
Phone:
970-476-3850
Students:
425
Colleges
Name:
Colorado Mountain College Vail Valley
City:
Edwards
State:
CO
Distance:
16 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Vail is excellent, anchored by Vail Health Hospital offering comprehensive services and emergency care. The community boasts nearly three physicians per 1,000 residents, and about 94% of the population is insured. The healthcare index indicates quality services are readily available for residents and visitors alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Vail Health Hospital
Address:
180 S Frontage Rd W, Vail, CO 81657
Phone:
(970) 476-2451
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.7%
Health Care Index:
75.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Vail, CO?
The Vail housing market is marked by high demand and premium prices, with the median home price at $1,250,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $2,350. Home values have appreciated by over 6% in the past year, and about 46% of homes are owner-occupied. Vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, making it a competitive market for buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$1,250,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
46.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.4%
New Construction Rate:
2.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vail residents handle vehicle and licensing needs through the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles, located conveniently in nearby Eagle. The local DMV office provides standard services such as registration, licensing, and title transfers, and additional information is accessible online. Easy access ensures a smooth experience for new arrivals.
State:
Colorado
Department:
Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
328 Highway 6, Suite 6, Eagle, CO 81631
Phone:
970-328-2445
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.