Living in Fort Collins

What it’s like to live in Fort Collins: waking up to mountain views, biking to work in the sunshine, grabbing a craft beer with neighbors after a day on the trails, and being part of a community that genuinely cares about where it lives. It’s no wonder Fort Collins consistently lands near the top of national “best places to live” rankings. This is the heart of our Fort Collins relocation guide.

What It’s Like to Live in Fort Collins

Quality of Life

Fort Collins offers a rare combination: the amenities and economy of a mid-sized city with the friendliness and accessibility of a small town. With a population of around 170,000, it’s large enough to support a thriving food scene, strong job market, and rich cultural life, yet small enough that you’ll keep running into familiar faces.

The Economy & Jobs

The local economy is anchored by Colorado State University, a major employer and research institution, alongside a robust technology sector, advanced manufacturing, healthcare systems, and a thriving small business community. Major employers include CSU, UCHealth, Broadcom, and Woodward, Inc. The unemployment rate in Fort Collins has historically tracked below the national average.

Housing & Neighborhoods

Fort Collins offers diverse housing options, from historic homes near Old Town and CSU to newer master-planned communities on the south and east sides. Home prices have appreciated steadily, reflecting the city’s desirability, but remain more attainable than Boulder.

Getting Around

Fort Collins is famously walkable and bike-friendly, with extensive trails and the MAX bus rapid transit line connecting north and south. Denver International Airport is roughly 70 minutes away.

For anyone considering a move, Fort Collins delivers a lifestyle that’s hard to match anywhere in Colorado. For everything else you need to know, see our complete guide to moving to Fort Collins, Colorado. You may also want to explore local neighborhoods and schools.

Fort Collins at a Glance

• Fort Collins has a population of approximately 170,000 and is the largest city in Larimer County, Colorado.
• Major employers in Fort Collins include Colorado State University, UCHealth, Broadcom, and Woodward, Inc.
• Denver International Airport is approximately 70 minutes by car from Fort Collins.
• The MAX Bus Rapid Transit line runs along the Mason Corridor, connecting north and south Fort Collins.