Pros and Cons of Living in Aspen, Colorado
Thinking about moving to Aspen? Already a resident weighing whether to stay? Here is an honest, no-marketing-spin look at what's great about Aspen — and what isn't. Aspen News compiled this from resident feedback, public data, and our own coverage of the community.
The pros
- No state income tax
- Excellent schools (Aspen High School)
- Walkable neighborhoods (rare in Aspen area)
- Close to Colorado Medical Center
- Strong community feel
- Mature tree canopy
- High home value appreciation
The cons
- Very expensive housing
- Property taxes are high
- Hot, humid summers
- Flooding risk in some areas
- Surrounded by Aspen so traffic is shared
- Limited new construction
- Premium pricing pushes out younger buyers
Aspen is great for
- Medical Center professionals
- Families prioritizing schools
- High-income Aspen professionals
Aspen may not be right for
- First-time buyers on modest budgets
- Those wanting suburban sprawl with cheaper land
Real talk
Aspen is the rare Aspen-area suburb that feels like its own town — quiet, residential, well-schooled. You pay for that.
Should you move to Aspen?
YES if: you can afford it, value walkability and schools, and work in/near Colorado Medical Center. NO if: you need to keep housing costs reasonable.
If you do move here
Aspen ISD zoning matters — Aspen HS attendance zone is the premium. Check flood maps; some areas flooded during Harvey. Properties sell fast.
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