10 Best Cities Near Colorado Springs to Live in 2025

Colorado Springs, nestled against the majestic Rocky Mountains, attracts new visitors every year thanks to its stunning mountain views, incredible sporting opportunities, and strong tourist economy. It's no wonder that many who come to visit this city decide to live there as well. However, if you're thinking about making the move to Colorado Springs, but want to live a bit outside the city, you might not know where to start.

From bustling small cities to peaceful mountain towns, there's a neighborhood to suit your lifestyle and preferences. In this blog post, we'll delve into the best cities near Colorado Springs for renters, providing insights into their unique features, amenities, and what makes them stand out.

All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates, which is available for download. Transit scores come from walkscore.com and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census website.

Cities Near Colorado Springs

1. Fort Carson, CO

• Distance from Colorado Springs: 8.1 mi
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via car: 18 mins
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via public transport: n/a
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via bike: 59 mins
• Starting rent: $1,199
• Population: 17,693
• Median household income: $62,582
• Walk score: 33
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 40

Fort Carson offers a military-friendly community with a variety of housing options, from base housing to off-base apartments and homes. For renters seeking affordable housing options, Fort Carson offers a variety of choices. Residents enjoy a variety of outdoor adventuring opportunities, including the nearby Cheyenne Mountain State Park.

Base housing is often a popular option for military families, as it provides a secure and affordable living environment. Off-base housing options also abound, including apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. Military residents can enjoy access to on-base amenities like fitness centers, swimming pools, and community centers. The base is conveniently located near shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment options.

2. Cimarron Hills, CO

• Distance from Colorado Springs: 8.8 mi
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via car: 18 mins
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via public transport: 2 hr 3 mins
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via bike: 50 mins
• Starting rent: $1,340
• Population: 19,311
• Median household income: $74,686
• Walk score: 34
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 25

Cimarron Hills is a suburban community that offers a peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere. Residents can enjoy ample green spaces, parks, and trails for outdoor activities. The city is known for its excellent schools and low crime rate. Cimarron Hills is also conveniently located near Fort Carson and Colorado Springs, providing easy access to employment opportunities and amenities.

For renters seeking a family-friendly community with excellent schools, Cimarron Hills is a great choice. The city offers a variety of rental options, including apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes.

3. Air Force Academy, CO

• Distance from Colorado Springs: 14.9 mi
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via car: 20 mins
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via public transport: n/a
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via bike: 1 hour 8 mins
• Starting rent: $1,225
• Population: 6,608
• Median household income: $79,250
• Walk score: 3
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 11

The Air Force Academy is a picturesque town nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains that hosts its namesake school. Residents, military personnel, and students can enjoy stunning views, hiking trails, and a variety of housing options, including base housing and off-base rentals. While the town is smaller and more secluded than others on the list, it provides a unique and peaceful living experience.

For renters seeking a unique and peaceful living experience, the Air Force Academy offers a charming and secluded environment. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery like the stunning Cathedral Rock and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. While the housing market may be smaller than in larger cities, renters can find a variety of options to suit their needs, including base housing and off-base rentals.

4. Fountain, CO

• Distance from Colorado Springs: 15.6 mi
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via car: 18 mins
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via public transport: 1 hr 56 mins
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via bike: 1 hr 24 mins
• Starting rent: $895
• Population: 28,489
• Median household income: $80,311
• Walk score: 19
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 30

Fountain is a growing city that offers a mix of suburban and rural living. Renters will find a mix of affordable apartments and spacious single-family homes. The city is known for its low cost of living and friendly atmosphere. Residents enjoy abundant natural spaces, notably the Fountain Creek Nature Center.

For renters seeking affordable housing options in a growing city, Fountain is a great choice. The city offers a variety of housing options to suit different budgets and lifestyles. Residents can enjoy a low cost of living, a friendly atmosphere, and easy access to nearby amenities.

5. Black Forest, CO

• Distance from Colorado Springs: 19.6 mi
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via car: 26 min
• Starting rent: $1,385
• Population: 15,097
• Median household income: $135,859
• Walk score: 20
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 23

Black Forest is a charming community that offers a peaceful and secluded atmosphere. Residents can enjoy beautiful forests, hiking trails, a low crime rate, and great local history attractions like the Western Museum of Mining and Industry.

While more people own than rent in Black Forest, renters can still enjoy this peaceful and secluded community. If you're looking for a rural experience closer to Colorado Springs, this city offers a beautiful natural setting with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

6. Castle Rock, CO

• Distance from Colorado Springs: 40.9 mi
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via car: 40 mins
• Starting rent: $1,395
• Population: 81,415
• Median household income: $135,985
• Walk score: 11
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 40

Castle Rock is a charming town located south of Colorado Springs. It offers a mix of suburban and rural living, with beautiful mountain views. The city's namesake, Castle Rock, is a much loved natural treasure known for its unique appearance and makeup. The grains of sand in castle rock and wrapped in agate, making them stronger than concrete.

For renters seeking a family-friendly community with excellent schools and plenty of outdoor activities, Castle Rock is a great choice. The town offers a variety of housing options, including apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes.

7. Centennial, CO

• Distance from Colorado Springs: 55.1 mi
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via car: 50 mins
• Starting rent: $1,473
• Population: 106,883
• Median household income: $124,617
• Walk score: 35
• Transit score: 21
• Bike score: 46

Centennial is a growing city that offers a suburban lifestyle with plenty of amenities. Centennial has a thriving business community, with a variety of shopping and dining options, including fantastic live shows at the Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre.

The city offers a variety of housing options, including apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. Residents can enjoy a suburban lifestyle with easy access to parks, trails, and shopping centers. Centennial is also a great option for those who commute to Denver.

8. Parker, CO

• Distance from Colorado Springs: 57.1 mi
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via car: 59 mins
• Starting rent: $1,521
• Population: 62,743
• Median household income: $126,615
• Walk score: 21
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 44

Parker is a growing city that offers a suburban lifestyle with plenty of amenities. Parker is known for its fantastic historical buildings that provide a unique blend of modern amenities and historical features. Downtown Parker offers a variety of shopping and dining options. Like other cities on this list, Parker residents also enjoy access to beautiful parks like Cherry Creek State Park.

For renters seeking a growing city with excellent schools and plenty of amenities, Parker is a great choice. The city offers a mix of rental types, and is also a great option for both Colorado Springs and Denver commuters.

9. Highlands Ranch, CO

• Distance from Colorado Springs: 62.3 mi
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via car: 1 hour
• Starting rent: $1,791
• Population: 103,444
• Median household income: $148,227
• Walk score: 28
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 49

Highlands Ranch is a master-planned community nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The community boasts numerous parks, trails, and open spaces, perfect for hiking, biking, and picnics. Residents can also take advantage of the Highlands Ranch Recreation District, which offers a wide range of activities, including swimming pools, fitness centers, sports leagues, and community events. Renters in Highlands Ranch can enjoy a variety of housing options, from spacious apartments to single-family homes.

The city also hosts annual festivals and celebrations, such as the Highlands Ranch Heritage Days and the Summer Concert Series. With its convenient location near Colorado Springs and Denver, Highlands Ranch offers easy access to employment opportunities, shopping centers, and cultural attractions.

10. Ken Caryl, CO

• Distance from Colorado Springs: 68.2 mi
• Commute time to Colorado Springs via car: 1 hr 6 min
• Starting rent: $1,635
• Population: 33,811
• Median household income: $113,459
• Walk score: 38
• Transit score: 8
• Bike score: 52

Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Ken Caryl offers a serene and idyllic setting for residents. Beyond its natural splendor, the Ken Caryl Ranch Metro District provides a wide array of amenities, including swimming pools, tennis courts, playgrounds, and community events.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Ken Caryl is a paradise. The community offers miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as access to nearby parks and open spaces. Nature lovers can explore the scenic beauty of the foothills, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding environment.

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