Pack your laptop and your sense of adventureits time to explore the best of Colorados budget-friendly mountain living.

With the shimmering McPhee Reservoir nearby, its a paradise for fishing, kayaking, and boating enthusiasts.

Its a place where affordable living meets outdoor adventure at every turn.

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By Jeffrey Beall – Own work, CC BY 4.0

Where is Dolores?

The serene environment is perfect for those seeking a tranquil setting to balance work and relaxation.

With its small-town charm and affordability, Cedaredge presents an idyllic mountain lifestyle without the hefty price tag.

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Home prices in Cedaredge range from $310,000 to $591,000 for a 3-4 bedroom property.

Where is Cedaredge?

Cedaredge is situated in Delta County in western Colorado, perched at an elevation of over 6,000 feet.

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The towns laid-back atmosphere and friendly community make it easy to settle in and feel at home.

Where is Kremmling?

Denver is roughly a two-hour drive southeast, making Kremmling accessible yet comfortably distant from the urban sprawl.

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Steeped in rich history, the town boasts charming architecture and a revitalized downtown with local cafes and shops.

Homes in Del Norte range from $250,000 to $400,000 for a 3-4 bedroom property.

Where is Del Norte?

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The surrounding geography includes desert landscapes transitioning to alpine forests, offering diverse scenery.

Fairplays tight-knit community and small-town charm make it a welcoming place to live and work.

Where is Fairplay?

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The town is accessible via US Highway 285, approximately a 90-minute drive southwest from Denver.

Its high-altitude setting offers expansive views of the surrounding Mosquito Mountain Range.

Fairplays central location makes it a convenient base for exploring other mountain towns and outdoor attractions in the region.

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The Creede Repertory Theatre adds a cultural touch, hosting performances that attract visitors from around the state.

Housing prices in Creede range from $300,000 to $500,000 for a 3-4 bedroom property.

Where is Creede?

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The town is surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, offering breathtaking vistas and a sense of seclusion.

Its unique geography includes dramatic cliffs that encircle the town, adding to its off-the-beaten-path allure.

The town embraces its artistic spirit with local galleries and the annual Ridgway Creative District events.

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Where is Ridgway?

Situated in Ouray County in southwestern Colorado, Ridgway lies at the junction of Highways 550 and 62.

The town is nestled in the Uncompahgre Valley, framed by the towering San Juan and Cimarron mountain ranges.

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This prime location offers easy access to nearby towns like Ouray and Telluride while maintaining its small-town charm.

The areas geography is notable for its dramatic peaks and rolling valleys, providing endless scenic views.

The nearby Comanche National Grassland provides trails for hiking and exploring ancient dinosaur tracks.

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Where is Trinidad?

Located in Las Animas County in southern Colorado, Trinidad sits along the historic Santa Fe Trail.

Its unique geographical position offers a blend of mountainous terrain and expansive grasslands.

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The Rio Grande flows through Alamosa, providing scenic spots for fishing and kayaking.

Where is Alamosa?

Alamosa is located in Alamosa County in southern Colorado, at an elevation of about 7,500 feet.

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Its proximity to the Great Sand Dunes and other natural attractions makes it a hub for exploration.

Homes in Montrose are typically priced between $400,000 and $600,000 for a 3-4 bedroom property.

Where is Montrose?

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Located in Montrose County in western Colorado, Montrose lies at the intersection of US Highways 50 and 550.

The Montrose Regional Airport offers flights to major cities, enhancing its connectivity.

The natural geothermal pools in town provide a relaxing retreat after a day of work or outdoor exploration.

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Pagosa Springs combines wellness, adventure, and affordability in a picturesque setting.

Where is Pagosa Springs?

Situated in Archuleta County in southwestern Colorado, Pagosa Springs is accessible via US Highway 160.

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The town lies along the San Juan River, which feeds the famous hot springs.

Its location provides easy access to both Durango to the west and the San Luis Valley to the east.

The surrounding geography includes vast forests, mountains, and rivers, offering a diverse landscape to explore.

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Outdoor enthusiasts will find the nearby Crested Butte Mountain Resort a haven for skiing and snowboarding.

For a 3-4 bedroom house in Gunnison, expect prices between $400,000 and $600,000.

Where is Gunnison?

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Located in Gunnison County in central Colorado, Gunnison sits at the junction of US Highways 50 and 135.

The towns central location makes it a convenient base for exploring a wide array of Colorados natural wonders.

Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the access to numerous 14,000-foot peaks, providing challenging climbs and rewarding vistas.

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Housing options in Buena Vista range from $400,000 to $600,000 for a 3-4 bedroom home.

Where is Buena Vista?

Located in Chaffee County in central Colorado, Buena Vista sits along US Highway 24 between Salida and Leadville.

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The geography offers a mix of alpine and river landscapes, making it a hub for outdoor activities.

The Arkansas River flows right through town, providing opportunities for kayaking, rafting, and riverside relaxation.

Mountain bikers and hikers will appreciate the extensive trail systems in the surrounding hills.

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For a 3-4 bedroom home in Salida, prices generally range from $500,000 to $800,000.

Where is Salida?

The geography features a mix of river valleys and mountain terrain, offering diverse scenery.

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Outdoor activities are abundant, with easy access to hiking, biking, and skiing in the surrounding Rockies.

Community events like the annual Leadville Trail 100 races bring residents together, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie.

Combining historical charm with modern amenities, Leadville presents a unique and inspiring place to live and work.

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The cost of a 3-4 bedroom home in Leadville generally ranges from $300,000 to $500,000.

Where is Leadville?

Its elevation provides cooler temperatures and panoramic mountain vistas year-round.

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The geography is characterized by alpine forests, clear mountain lakes, and remnants of its mining history.

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