I'm fortunate to be a native of this beautiful state, and we as a people are welcoming... but there are probably a few things you should know before jumping in a box truck and moving here.

I see this all the time, people move here because of a vacation some years back they skied in our mountains, hiked in Rocky Mountain National park and got to witness the bugling Elk, or they dream of having the Rockies as a backdrop out of their bedroom window.  Only to have them leave a couple of years later disappointed. let me help you prepare for your adventure to Colorado. 

here are my top 10 things you should know about Colorado before moving here.

#1    The altitude: the altitude can take some getting used to. Colorado's elevation is higher than most states. The Dever metro ranges from 5200-6300  which can cause altitude sickness for some people. This means It's important to stay hydrated. Drink a ton of water!

#2 Tumbleweeds and Prarie Dogs:  Welcome to the West, it's not just for the movies these things are real. Tumbleweeds: while you're driving down the road you will encounter a tumbleweed or two. don't worry it's not going to damage your car just keep driving through it.  DO NOT swerve. All too often there is an avoidable accident because a driver tried to get out of the way of the migrating tumbleweeds only to find themselves in a ditch or worse.

Prairie Dogs.  These adorable little guys will run from you every time, sounding an alarm bark sending all their neighbors to their whole.  If you want a photo you will need to take one from a distance.  It's probably best to keep your dog and children out of their home.  It is not uncommon for a break out of the Bubonic plague usually linked to the fleas that hang out around these adorable guys.     

#3   The weather: our weather can be unpredictable Colorado has a reputation for having 300+ days of sunny skies, but it's also known for its sudden changes in weather. Be prepared for snow, hail, and thunderstorms even in the summer months. It's smart to keep some water, a blanket, and a snack in the car just in case. In the Denver Metro area, we get snow in May all the time and March is when we usually get the most snow.  You've been warned. 

#4    The cost of living can be high: While it varies by city, Colorado is an expensive place to live. The cost of housing, food, and utilities add up quickly.  If you're moving here from the east or west coast Colorado may seem like a deal but if you're coming from middle America this can be a shocker and a demoralizing factor real quick. 

#5 Traffic: traffic is always challenging: Be prepared for crowded highways and long work Commute times in any of the cities along the front range. If you plan on visiting the mountains from the front range plan for a significant amount of travel time. Not only do the winding roads cause slower speeds the highway is constantly packed with fellow adventure seekers. I've spent 14 hours in traffic coming from a day of skiing and riding.  now that may be my worst so far... but plan for a minimum of 4 hours of traffic when coming out of the mountains. 

#6 Outdoor recreation: Playing in the great outdoors is a way of life and Coloradans are famous for calling in sick to go play outside. From hiking, skiing, hunting, and rafting. You'll have plenty of opportunities to play outside and explore the natural beauty of this awesome state. Just be ready all that beauty comes with a lot of other guests. 

#7 Politics: The state is politically divided, with Colorado having roughly 6M residents and half of those living in the Denver metro area. what Denver wants is usually what Colorado gets.  The metro area inside the C470 circle strongly leans liberal.  The cities and towns outside of Denver are balanced or lean conservative. The mix of conservative and liberal voters has the state's political atmosphere contentious at times.

#8 Communities: This is a great place to raise a family. towns across Colorado consistently rank high on lists of the best places to live. Colorado has strong schools, great healthcare, and friendly people who are welcoming to newcomers.

#9 Natural Disasters: our state experiences wildfires regularly along with flooding, mudslides, and the occasional snowstorm that will trap you in your home for days. This can be devastating for communities, and it has made it extremely difficult to get homeowners insurance on homes in the mountains.  

#10 Subaru:  Colorado is the Subaru capital of the world. I'm not saying you need to drink the cool aid and run out and get one, but it does not take long for newcomers to realize that the rear-wheeled drive vehicle they have now is no good for our streets and seasons. personally, I prefer the 4runner.    

Thank you for sticking with me and I hope this helps. if you have any questions feel free to reach out at any time through text, email, or even the good old phone call.