Are you ready to trade in the heat and humidity of the Lone Star State for the crisp air and beautiful mountains of Colorado? There are few places in the country that have the natural beauty, desirable climate, and access to the outdoors that Colorado provides. From the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains to the incredible streams, lakes, and rivers surrounding the region, Colorado’s natural beauty is just one of the many reasons so many people love calling it home. Combine the gorgeous landscape with a strong economy, low taxes, great schools, and outdoor recreation and it’s no wonder Colorado consistently ranks among the top places to live in the country.

While there is certainly plenty of excitement to look forward to, moving from one state to another can also present a number of challenges. Long-distance moves require a great deal of planning and organization. Before you pack up and head for the Centennial State, there are several things to consider that can affect the cost, timing, and ease of your move. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect from life in Colorado, as well as tips and tricks that can help you simplify the moving process.

Why It’s Great to Live in Colorado

It’s no secret that Colorado is one of the most beautiful places in the country. Complete with incredible views of the Rocky Mountains, rolling hills, pristine lakes, and rushing rivers, Colorado’s landscape lends itself to some of the most stunning scenery in the U.S. This outdoor wonderland also makes Colorado a premier destination for recreational activities including world-class skiing, snowboarding, mountain climbing, hiking, camping, whitewater rafting, fishing, biking, and so much more. Colorado is home to 4 national parks, 7 national monuments, 2 national recreation areas, 3 national historic trails, 11 national forests, 41 national wilderness areas, 44 state parks, and a number of other scenic and recreational areas.

Aside from the great outdoors, Colorado offers mild weather, a great economy, and exceptional schools. Colorado is also packed with excellent restaurants, loads of craft breweries, and one of the best outdoor music venues in the world- Red Rocks Amphitheater. From museums and festivals to shopping and professional sports, Colorado is packed with incredible amenities and leaves little to be desired.

Most Popular Cities to Live in Colorado

Colorado is a breathtaking state and offers an abundance of amenities and outdoor activities. Whether you prefer a sprawling metropolis, close proximity to nature, or a quaint town, Colorado has it all. Here are just a few of the most popular places to live in Colorado.

1. Denver

The capital of Colorado, Denver is one of the most preferred places to live in the state. Despite its high cost of living, residents love everything the city has to offer. It’s booming job market draws plenty of young professionals while outdoor enthusiasts love the easy access to the outdoors. It is packed with amenities such as great restaurants, excellent shopping, exciting sports teams, and one of the best beer scenes in the country. It is also home to the famous Red Rocks Amphitheater as well as dozens of museums and art galleries. Boasting beautiful scenery and unique neighborhoods, it comes as no surprise that Denver is ranked among the fastest growing cities in America.

2. Colorado Springs

Located just an hour outside of Denver, Colorado Springs is home to a large military presence, with facilities that include Fort Carson and the US Air Force Academy. Many people choose to live in Colorado Springs because the real estate is much cheaper than Denver and the close proximity to the city makes for an easy commute. Colorado Springs also offers a fantastic downtown scene packed with fabulous restaurants, live music, and plenty of things to see and do.

3. Boulder

While the crown jewel of the city is the University of Colorado at Boulder, there’s plenty more to this incredible city than just a college town. It has been named one of the best bike cities in North America and provides residents with ample opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities including climbing, hiking, biking, and exploring nature. Packed with great restaurants, bars, and shops, this beautiful city leaves little to be desired.

4. Castle Rock

Located just 35 minutes from Denver, Castle Rock is hands down one of the best places to live in Colorado. Here you will find access to big city amenities along with plenty of small-town hospitality. It is a great place to enjoy nature, as it offers 400 acres of state parks, canyons, and natural beauty. The city is also noted for its excellent schools, which make it a great place to live and raise a family. It is an easy drive to Denver, which makes it perfect for commuters who don’t want to pay the high prices to live right in the city.

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Texas to Colorado?

There are so many things to think about when it comes to a long distance move and cost is probably at the top of your list. There are several things to consider when determining the cost of your move. Hiring a professional moving company will certainly be your most expensive option while you can save a little money by renting a moving truck or renting a portable storage container. Other factors that can impact the cost of your move are the number of items being moved, the exact distance of your move, and even the time of year in which you are moving. In order to get a better idea of what your move will cost, let’s take a look at a few different moving options.

What Moving Options Do I Have?

When you are moving from one location to another, your first decision will be choosing your moving method. There are a number of different options for long-distance moving. Whether you are looking to take on a do-it-yourself approach or you prefer to hire assistance, there are multiple options to consider.

1.Hire a Full-Service Moving Company

If you prefer the ease of having someone else do all the work for you, hiring a full-service moving company could be a good option. A full-service company can do everything from packing and loading your belongings to transporting them and unloading them in your new home. While this is certainly a convenient option, it is not feasible for everyone’s budget. Hiring professional movers is without a doubt the most expensive option and could cost on average between $3000-$6000 depending on the number of belongings you are moving. Aside from the cost, there are a few other things to consider when choosing a moving company. First, you have to work around their schedule and you may pay a premium price depending on the time of year and the demand for movers. Second, you won’t have access to your belongings during the moving process.

2. Rent a Moving Truck or Trailer

For those who want total control over their move, renting a moving truck or trailer might be the best option. Renting a truck or trailer could save you thousands of dollars. You could end up moving from Texas to Colorado for just over $1000. There is typically a fixed rate for rental prices as well as fuel and insurance costs. Although this option does require more work on your part to pack and load your boxes, it also gives you complete control over your moving timeline.

3. Rent a Portable Storage Container

This is a great option because it combines the best of both worlds. You have the flexibility of moving on your own but you also have the convenience of having your belongings transported for you. Another added benefit of renting a storage container is that it provides you with much needed storage space before, during, and after your move. Made of weather-proof steel, these containers can be left outside for long periods of time while ensuring the safety of the contents inside. They are conveniently delivered directly to your door giving you the freedom and flexibility to pack and load your belongings at your convenience. When you are ready, simply call the storage company and arrange to have your container transported to your new location. This type of hybrid DIY move is a great way to save money while also enjoying the convenience of additional storage.

How Can Smartbox Moving and Storage Help?

Moving to a new state can be both exciting and overwhelming, but at Smartbox Moving and Storage, we have the tools you need to simplify your move. We offer a variety of moving containers to fit your needs. Our moving containers are safe, secure, and easy to load and unload.  They also provide a perfect storage solution so you can take your time packing and unpacking. In addition to our convenient storage containers, we also rent trailers for those who prefer that option. For added convenience, we can provide loading and unloading services to make your move even easier. Need boxes and moving supplies? We have that too! We are your one-stop-shop for all your moving needs.