Manitou Springs, Colorado
What It Is Like to Retire in Manitou springs
Manitou Springs is a small town of 5,800 that is a short distance west of Colorado Springs. Pikes Peak rises above the town. The downtown is a Victorian sampler that has attracted many people, including a previous generation of hippies. The town is popular with tourists and with retirees for its mountains and scenery. Many interesting shops and galleries, along with Victorian B & Bs await the weary traveler. Although almost physically connected to Colorado Springs, the 2 towns are worlds apart politically and culturally. The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is one of the local attractions. Photos of Manitou Springs City Hall, and Manitou Springs Historic District in the 700 block of Manitou Avenue, courtesy of Wikipedia and Smallbones (public domain).
Where to Retire in Manitou springs and Home Prices
People who come here are often attracted by the Victorian homes in many of the neighborhoods. Over 700 homes have been included in a historic district. There are not many new developments, although there are newer homes outside of town ranging from log homes to very palatial mountain estates. Zillow reports the median home value in early 2020 was $407,408.
What Is Special about Manitou springs
Its preserved Victorian charm and its artsy side appeal to many people. The cog railway is a big attraction, as are the Manitou Cliff Dwellings. Colorado is a friendly state for people over 65 - there are significant property tax exemptions as well as exemptions on significant amounts of social security and pension income.
What Is Not Special about Manitou springs
Manitou Springs is a busy tourist town near the very busy city of Colorado Springs.
Who Will Like Retirement in Manitou springs
People who are attracted to artsy towns and Victorian architecture will like it here. Also, those who crave the mountains will enjoy living above 6,000'. Being so close to Colorado Springs means you are not stuck in a small town out in the mountains.
Local Economy Is Driven by
Tourism is very important to the local economy. Nearby Colorado Springs has a diversified economy.
Climate and Physical Environment
Manitou Springs is just west of Colorado Springs in central Colorado. The elevation is high at 6,412'. Thanks to that altitude the January average temperature is in the high teens and the average July temperature is in the high 50's.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
A big part of the attraction to Manitou Springs are the shops, restaurants, and galleries in the downtown. Many artists live and work in town. The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are a popular attraction, as is the Pike's Peak Railway. Nearby Colorado Springs has a plethora of cultural attractions and restaurants.
Crime
The crime rate is well below average with an index of about 250 vs. the national index of 320.
Medical facilities
Nearby Colorado Springs has 2 hospitals and a large supply of medical professionals.
Transportation
Colorado Springs has several transportation options.
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