Durango, CO


24 Reviews



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Durango, CO

About Durango, CO

Durango, CO is located in the heart of Southwest Colorado. The town of Durango has plenty to offer for visitors, with a vibrant downtown area full of restaurants and shops, easy access to outdoor activities like hiking trails, skiing, and fishing, as well as many historical sites. Durango is also home to Fort Lewis College which provides a wide variety of opportunities for students and faculty alike. Whether you're looking to relax or explore, Durango has something special in store - come experience it yourself! Small metro area set in the mountains and high desert of the Rocky Mountains. Primary industries include tourism and recreation. Also known as a college town and a retirement destination. - Positioned in southwestern Colorado, 215 miles southwest of Denver and 160 miles north of Albuquerque, New Mexico..

Location Details

State: Colorado
County: La Plata County
Metro Area: Durango Metro Area
City: Durango
Zip Codes: 81301 81303
Cost of Living: 17.9% higher
Time zone: Mountain Standard Time (MST)
Elevation: 6532 ft above sea level
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Dig Deeper on Durango

Durango, Colorado, nestled in the southwestern part of the state, is a city that seamlessly blends its historic past with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Founded in 1880 by the Denver and Rio Grande Railway, Durango was initially established to serve the mining industry, which thrived on the extraction of silver and gold from the nearby San Juan Mountains. Over time, as the mining boom receded, Durango transitioned into a town celebrated for its scenic landscapes, outdoor recreation, and cultural heritage.

The geography of Durango is marked by its dramatic setting at the foot of the San Juan Mountains, part of the larger Rocky Mountain range. The Animas River runs through the heart of the city, adding to its picturesque charm and providing numerous recreational opportunities. Durango experiences a varied climate, with warm, pleasant summers and cold, snowy winters, making it an ideal location for seasonal outdoor activities ranging from hiking and mountain biking to skiing and snowboarding.

Today, Durango's economy is driven by a mix of tourism, education, and healthcare. The presence of Fort Lewis College contributes to the city's vibrant cultural scene and supports a variety of educational pursuits. Tourism, fueled by attractions such as the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and the proximity to Mesa Verde National Park, plays a significant role in the local economy, drawing visitors from around the globe to experience Durango's unique blend of natural beauty and historical richness.

In terms of voting patterns, Durango tends to exhibit a more progressive stance compared to other areas in the region, reflecting its diverse population and the influence of its educational institutions. This dynamic creates a community that values open dialogue and civic engagement, contributing to a lively and participatory local governance.

Cultural and recreational activities abound in Durango, catering to a wide range of interests and passions. The city is renowned for its commitment to preserving its historical architecture, with numerous buildings in the downtown area listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Art galleries, theaters, and music venues offer a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, while the surrounding landscapes provide endless possibilities for adventure and exploration. Annual events such as the Durango Independent Film Festival and the Music in the Mountains festival celebrate the arts, while the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic challenges cyclists in a race from Durango to Silverton.

For new residents, Durango offers the chance to be part of a community that cherishes its natural environment, embraces its history, and fosters a culture of inclusivity and creativity. Living in Durango means experiencing the best of both worlds: the tranquility of life in a small mountain town combined with the vibrancy of a community rich in cultural offerings and outdoor adventures. It's a place where the spirit of the Old West meets the energy of the contemporary, creating a living experience that is both unique and deeply rewarding.

In summary, Durango, Colorado, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the American Southwest, offering a lifestyle that is deeply connected to the rhythms of nature and the legacy of its pioneering past. With its stunning landscapes, dynamic economy, and thriving cultural scene, Durango invites residents and visitors alike to discover a world of beauty, history, and community.

Durango Cost of Living
$$$$

College town, natural beauty, and pleasant summers make Durango a great place to live.

$677,500
+50.1% higher than avg
$68,550
-0.7% lower than avg
$1,410 /mo
Monthly rent (2br)
-1.4% lower than avg
Durango Crime
48.1 / 100
Crime is ranked on a scale of 1 (low) to 100 (high). US average: 35.4
Minimum annual income
To live comfortably in Durango, Colorado
$129,960
for a family
$50,000
for a single person
Pros & Cons of Durango
   College town
High home prices
   Natural beauty
Dry climate
   Pleasant summers
Isolated
Reviews for Durango
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Over 4 years ago

I grew up in Durango, fifth generation. Of course it is beautiful and my roots are there. Too many people have moved there though. I still love the landscape, and my  More

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Absolutely wonderful place to live. The amount of scenery and natural beauty within 5 hours in all directions (literally all of them) is unbeatable. So close to  More

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Been in or near durango for 20 years and am stuck here. Can't earn enough to live on, no decent jobs, ridiculously expensive housing, relatively unfriendly, snobbish  More

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