June 2025 | May 2025 | April 2025
June 2025
3 Colorado cities make Top 100 Best Places to Live
Loveland, Colorado Springs, and Aurora have been recognized among the top 100 best places to live in the U.S. for 2025, according to recent Livability rankings. Loveland stands out for its vibrant public art scene, strong educational institutions, and community events like the annual Valentine Re-Mailing Program, which contribute to its nickname, “The Sweetheart City.” Colorado Springs is lauded for its scenic beauty, economic growth, and status as “Olympic City USA,” reflecting its association with the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee. Aurora earns praise for its cultural diversity, extensive park system, and robust healthcare facilities, including the Anschutz Medical Campus. Click here to read the full report.
2 Colorado communities named top Affordable Cities for Retirees
A recent analysis by GOBankingRates identified Colorado Springs and Fort Collins as two of the most affordable cities in the U.S. for retirement. Colorado Springs ranked 13th, while Fort Collins secured the 22nd spot on the list. The study evaluated factors such as housing costs, grocery prices, healthcare expenses, and overall cost of living to determine affordability. Both cities offer a balance of economic value and quality of life, making them attractive options for retirees seeking affordability without sacrificing amenities. Click here to read the full study.
Erie ranks 15th in nation for population growth
Erie, Colorado, ranked 15th in the U.S. for population growth, expanding by 9.2% between 2023 and 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Its location between Boulder and Weld counties has attracted new businesses, retail centers, and restaurants. Home prices remain relatively affordable, with a median of $732,500. Major developments, like the 800-acre Westerly project, are underway, adding to Erie’s rapid transformation from a small town to a thriving community. Click here to read more.
May 2025
CSU Grad Programs Earn Top 3 National Rankings
Colorado State University (CSU) has achieved national recognition with two of its graduate programs ranking among the top three in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 Best Graduate Schools rankings. The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program secured the No. 3 spot, highlighting its excellence in veterinary education and research. Similarly, CSU’s occupational therapy program also ranked No. 3 nationally. Click here to read the full article.
Northern Colorado craft breweries rank among largest in nation
Fort Collins’ Odell Brewing Co. and Longmont-based Monster Brewing Co. have been recognized among the nation’s largest craft breweries, according to the Brewers Association’s latest rankings. These two are the only Colorado craft breweries to make the list, highlighting Northern Colorado’s significant role in the U.S. craft beer industry. Click here to read the full article.
IRES 1st Quarter Report
Information and Real Estate Services (IRES) recently released their Q1 2025 MarketWatch Report. In Larimer County, the median sales price was $582,950 for Q1-2025, a 0.1% increase year-over-year. The number of closed sales was up 5.9% dropping to 995. In Weld County, the median sales price was $518,750 for Q1-2025, a 3.9% increase year-over-year. The number of closed sales was up 0.9%, coming in at 1,174. In Boulder County, the median sales price was $815,000 for Q1-2025, a 1.4% year-over-year increase. The number of closed sales was down 10.2%, coming in at 616.
April 2025
Weld County #1 for population growth
According to recently released U.S. Census Bureau data, Weld County led Colorado in population growth from July 1, 2023, to July 1, 2024, adding 9,529 new residents—a 2.6% increase. This seats Weld County No. 1 for population growth among Colorado counties with 1,000 or more population, and No. 2 overall, behind only San Juan County, which recorded 3% growth. As of July 2024, Weld County’s population was estimated at 369,745, positioning it as the eighth-most-populous county in Colorado and approaching Larimer County’s population of 374,574. Click here for additional data and analysis.
Celebrating Buy Colorado Day
On March 3, 2025, Colorado established “Buy Colorado Day,” a new annual holiday celebrating local businesses on “303 Day,” a nod to the state’s original area code. The day promotes Colorado-made products and small businesses through events and marketing campaigns. Lawmakers emphasized the state’s entrepreneurial spirit, noting nearly 700,000 small businesses employ over 1.2 million people. Iconic Colorado products like Crocs and Jolly Ranchers were also recognized as part of the celebration.
Sundance Film Festival event moving to Colorado
The Sundance Film Festival has announced its relocation from Park City, Utah, to Boulder, Colorado, starting in 2027. This move is anticipated to significantly boost Boulder’s economy and cultural scene, positioning Colorado as a central hub for the film industry during the festival’s duration. The festival’s activities are expected to be centered around downtown Boulder and the Pearl Street Mall, with the University of Colorado campus hosting some events. This development underscores Boulder’s growing prominence in the arts and entertainment sectors.
