Colorado Springs continues to attract new residents thanks to its strong jobmarket, outdoor lifestyle, and relatively affordable housing compared toDenver. But as prices rise and demand remains strong, many people areasking the same question:What salary do you actually need to live comfortably in Colorado Springs?
The answer depends on your lifestyle, housing situation, and financialgoals—but this guide breaks down realistic numbers so you can decide what“comfortable” means for you.What the Data Says for Colorado Springs● According to a 2025 study, a household income of approximately$108,462 per year was identified as the amount needed to live“comfortably” in Colorado Springs. This figure is based on the 50/30/20budgeting rule (50% necessities, 30% wants, 20% savings/debt).● Compared to national averages, the overall cost of living in ColoradoSprings tends to be about 2% higher than the U.S. average, with housingcosts significantly influencing that figure.● For housing: typical rents or housing costs in the area tend to be abovethe national median for many units — especially if you aim for quality orin popular neighborhoods.What “Comfortable” Probably Means (and What you Get)If you earn around $100,000–$110,000 a year (before taxes) in ColoradoSprings, you could reasonably expect to:● Afford mid-range rent or a mortgage on a modest-to-mid home withoutspending more than ~30% of gross income on housing● Cover necessities like groceries, utilities, transportation, health care, andinsurance● Have room for discretionary spending — dining out, occasional travel,entertainment● Set aside money for savings, emergencies, or retirement (assumingmoderate debt)
● Maintain a stable, middle-class lifestyle with some comfort — no severefinancial stress for basics, and flexibility to avoid living “paycheck topaycheck.”What Can Change the NumbersYour required salary for comfort depends heavily on some factors:● Household size & dependents: Single adult vs couple vs couple + kids —costs scale up.● Housing type & location: Rent vs mortgage, quality of home,neighborhood — housing drives a big portion of costs.● Lifestyle choices: Dining out, travel, hobbies, savings goals, debt(student loans, auto loans, etc.).● Long-term financial goals: Savings, retirement, children’s education,emergencies — these require more income than just “livingcomfortably.”My Recommendation: Comfortable Salary Ranges forDifferent SituationsHere’s a rough guideline depending on lifestyle/household type:Situation / Household Estimated Gross Salary for Comfort
Single adult, modest lifestyle(rent/apartment, few extras)~$70,000–$85,000Single adult, more comfortablelifestyle (saving, leisure, someluxuries)~$90,000–$100,000Couple (dual income) or small family(with or without kids)~$110,000–$130,000+Family with children + savings &moderate comforts~$130,000–$150,000+What Does “Living Comfortably” Mean?For most households, living comfortably means:● Paying rent or a mortgage without financial strain● Covering utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare● Having discretionary income for dining, travel, or hobbies● Saving for emergencies, retirement, or future goals● Avoiding a paycheck-to-paycheck lifestyleA common benchmark used by financial planners is the 50/30/20 rule:● 50% of income for necessities● 30% for wants● 20% for savings and debt reductionThis framework helps estimate the income needed to maintain stability andflexibility.
Cost of Living in Colorado SpringsColorado Springs sits slightly above the national average in overall cost ofliving, with housing being the biggest driver.Key Expense Categories● Housing: Home prices and rents have increased significantly over thepast several years● Utilities & transportation: Generally close to national averages● Groceries & healthcare: Slightly above average● Taxes: Colorado’s flat income tax helps offset some housing costsWhile Colorado Springs is still more affordable than Denver or Boulder, it is nolonger considered a low-cost city.Estimated Salary Needed to Live ComfortablyBased on current housing costs, inflation trends, and budgeting models, hereare realistic salary ranges for different household situations:Single Adult● Modest lifestyle: $70,000 – $85,000● Comfortable lifestyle with savings: $90,000 – $100,000Couple (No Children)
● Comfortable combined income: $100,000 – $120,000Family With Children● Comfortable household income: $120,000 – $150,000+For many households, a salary around $100,000–$110,000 per year providesenough flexibility to cover housing, enjoy the city, and still save responsibly.Housing Costs Matter MostHousing is typically the largest expense and the biggest variable.Renting● One-bedroom apartments can consume a large portion of income ifearnings are under $70,000● Newer or centrally located units push costs higherBuying● Mortgage payments, insurance, property taxes, and maintenance add upquickly● Higher interest rates mean buyers often need higher incomes than inpast yearsKeeping housing costs below 30% of gross income is a common rule ofthumb for long-term comfort.
Lifestyle Choices Can Shift the NumbersYour personal choices can significantly change what salary feels“comfortable.”Factors that increase required income:● Living alone instead of sharing housing● Carrying student loans or auto debt● Frequent travel, dining out, or entertainment● Aggressive savings or retirement goalsFactors that lower required income:● Dual incomes● Paid-off vehicles● Remote work reducing commuting costs● Modest housing choicesWhy This Matters for Homeowners and BuyersUnderstanding income requirements is important not just for renters andbuyers—but also for homeowners thinking about selling.As affordability tightens:● Fewer buyers qualify for traditional mortgages
● Homes take longer to sell● Cash buyers become more common● Sellers may prioritize certainty and speed over top-dollar pricingThis shift has increased demand for as-is and cash transactions acrossColorado Springs.How HBR Colorado Helps in a Changing MarketAt HBR Colorado, we work with homeowners navigating affordabilitychallenges, life transitions, and changing market conditions. Whethersomeone is relocating, downsizing, or simply finding the cost of living higherthan expected, we provide flexible solutions.We buy residential and commercial properties:● As-is● With no repairs or showings● No commissions or hidden fees● On your timelineFor many sellers, certainty and simplicity matter more than chasing a perfectprice in an unpredictable market.Final ThoughtsLiving comfortably in Colorado Springs is still achievable—but it requiresrealistic expectations and careful budgeting. For many households, earning
around $100,000 per year provides the balance needed to enjoy the city whilestaying financially secure.As the market continues to evolve, understanding income, affordability, andhousing trends helps residents make smarter decisions—whether they’rebuying, renting, or selling.If you’re considering selling a home or property in Colorado Springs and wanta straightforward, no-pressure option, HBR Colorado is here to help.