Thinking about moving to Colorado Springs in 2026? Whether you're an incoming military family, a first-time homebuyer, or someone chasing that mountain-town lifestyle — this guide walks you through everything you need to know before you unpack your boxes.

Colorado Springs continues to grow as one of the country’s top relocation destinations. With five military installations, incredible outdoor access, improved infrastructure, and steady housing opportunities, 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the city.

This guide expands on every major topic to help you move with confidence.

Why Colorado Springs Remains a Relocation Hotspot

Colorado Springs has long been a favorite for:

• Military households

• Outdoor lovers

• Value-driven homebuyers

• Families seeking stability and safety

In 2026, the Springs remains highly attractive, but with a few important shifts:

• City budget pressures affecting certain services

• Increased cost-of-living awareness

• Housing inventory rising again

• Job growth in defense, tech, aerospace, and healthcare

Whether you're moving from across the country or across the world, being informed will set you up for a smooth transition.

Best Places to Live in Colorado Springs

The beauty of the Springs is its diversity — each area brings a different lifestyle.

North Colorado Springs

• Briargate, Cordera, Wolf Ranch

• Newer homes, great schools, parks, and family-friendly master-planned communities

Eastside / Powers Corridor

• Stetson Hills, Banning Lewis Ranch

• Convenience-driven living, tons of shopping, restaurants, and newer builds

West Side / Old Colorado City

• Charming older homes, tree-lined streets, mountain views, and quick access to Garden of the Gods

Downtown / Central Springs

• Walkability, redevelopment, craft food + coffee culture, historic districts

Military Favorites

• Fountain / Security-Widefield: budget-friendly, close to Fort Carson

• The Powers Corridor: central, fast-growing, easy commutes

• Monument / Northgate: highly rated schools, close to the Air Force Academy

Cost of Living in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs remains more affordable than Denver — but it’s still Colorado.

Expect rising but manageable expenses in:

• Housing

• Utilities

• Groceries

• Transportation

Military families using BAH often find that homeownership is still very feasible, especially with sellers offering concessions again and increased inventory expected throughout 2026.

Schools in Colorado Springs

Schools are a major factor for families relocating here. Top districts include:

• District 20 (Academy): highly rated, strong academics and extracurriculars

• District 49 (Falcon): fast-growing, modern facilities

• District 11 (Central): historic, diverse, centrally located

• District 8 (Fountain–Fort Carson): great support for military-connected students

School choice programs also provide flexibility depending on your family’s needs.

Medical Care and Healthcare Access

Colorado Springs has seen major medical expansion in the last decade.

Options include:

• UCHealth Memorial Hospital

• Penrose–St. Francis Medical Center

• Children’s Hospital Colorado

• Kaiser, Centura, and countless specialty clinics

Military families benefit from care at Evans Army Community Hospital and on-base services.

Military Life in Colorado Springs

With multiple major installations — Fort Carson, Peterson, Schriever, NORAD/NORTHCOM, and USAFA — military life is central to the culture of the city.

Expect:

• Strong support networks

• Tons of veteran-owned resources

• PCS-friendly relocation options

• Community events tailored for service members & families

Military families consistently rate Colorado Springs as one of the easiest and most welcoming PCS locations in the country.

Outdoor Living in Colorado Springs

If you love the outdoors, you’ll thrive here. Locals enjoy:

• Hiking Palmer Park, Garden of the Gods, Red Rock Canyon

• Biking extensive trail systems

• Paddleboarding and fishing

• Day trips to ski resorts

• Rock climbing and camping

You don’t just live near the mountains — you live in them.

Family Fun & Lifestyle

Colorado Springs is incredibly family-friendly. Some local favorites:

• Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

• Pikes Peak & Seven Falls

• U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum

• The Broadmoor area

• Dozens of parks and recreational programs

There’s always something happening here — seasonal festivals, food truck rallies, concerts, farmers markets, and more.

Rentals in Colorado Springs

Rentals remain competitive, especially during heavy PCS months. In 2026:

• Expect slight rent increases

• More single-family rentals coming available

• Commute distance will greatly impact price

Start searching early, especially if arriving between May and August.

Housing Market Outlook for 2026

The 2026 Colorado Springs housing market is shaping up to be balanced and opportunity-rich for buyers.

Key takeaways:

• More inventory than previous years

• Sellers offering concessions again

• VA buyers gaining stronger negotiating power

• Rates expected to stabilize or trend lower

• Reliable demand due to military relocations and job market growth

Whether you're buying, selling, or investing — preparation and strategy matter in 2026.

Important Things to Do When You Relocate to Colorado Springs

Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

✔ Create your moving timeline early

Especially crucial for PCS households.

✔ Get pre-approved or confirm your BAH range

Your buying power changes each year — get ahead of it.

✔ Explore neighborhoods with a local expert

Lifestyle, commute, school district, and budget all matter.

✔ Get ready for high elevation

Hydrate the first few days — your body will feel it.

✔ Prepare for snow

Winters are mild but unpredictable.

✔ Lean on local experts

Your lender, relocation team, and agent will smooth the entire process.

Ready to Move to Colorado Springs in 2026? Let’s Talk.

Whether you're a military family, a first-time homebuyer, or planning your next chapter, you deserve a move that feels clear, informed, and stress-free.

I’m Daniel Padilla — retired U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer and Founder of The PCS Team™. We’ve helped hundreds of families relocate with confidence and precision.

📞 Call or text anytime: 719-900-6998