Aspen, Colorado is the 53rd largest city in the state, and was incorporated in 1881. Sitting at 7,908 feet in elevation and surrounded by gorgeous Rocky Mountain peaks, you’ll find Aspen at the southeastern end of the Roaring Fork Valley, which stretches roughly 40 miles south from I-70 along Highway 82.
Colorado boasts over 300 days of sunshine each year, which means endless activities and an abundance of Vitamin D. The economy in Colorado continues to stay strong, as does the real estate market.
Why Move to Aspen?
To outsiders, Aspen, Colorado is most often associated with luxury vacations, world-class skiing, celebrities, and billionaires. But if you’re planning on relocating to Aspen, you’ll meet quite a different town. You’ll find yourself thoroughly embracing this natural wonderland — and all it has to offer — once you call it home.
Scouting Aspen Before You Move
The first thing to do if you’re planning to move to Aspen is to schedule a visit to the valley with the sole intention of scouting the area. We suggest booking a trip for an entire week to give you enough time for in-person interviews, real estate viewing, chatting with locals, and exploring the area.
If your move isn’t imminent and you have the time, you may consider scheduling two separate visits: one in the summer and one in the winter. This will give you a full experience of the Aspen valley, both in- and off-season.
Finding Housing in Aspen
Aspen is known for having the most expensive real estate in the country — a combination of high-end luxury compounds and downtown condos, with scattered single-family homes, mobile homes, and employee housing.
Housing in and around Aspen is highly competitive; however, if you’re willing to look downvalley, your options will increase. Most Roaring Fork Valley locals who work in the Aspen core commute from other valley communities, such as Snowmass Village, Basalt, El Jebel/Willits, Carbondale, and Glenwood Springs.
Whether you’re planning to buy a home in Aspen — or happy to find a short-term Aspen vacation rental while you wait for the perfect piece of real estate — Whitman Fine Properties is eager to help you settle in.
Choosing Schools When Relocating to Aspen
The Aspen valley provides many high-quality schooling options for children of all ages. From preschool at the Yellow Brick to kindergarten at Aspen Elementary or Aspen Country Day and on to Aspen Middle and High Schools, you won’t be disappointed. You’ll find a Waldorf School downvalley, and multiple additional charter schools for alternative schooling environments. You’ll also find numerous licensed daycare centers in Aspen, should your children not yet be ready for all-day schooling.
Professional Aspen Relocation Advice
- Once you’ve scout the Aspen area successfully and decide it’s time to stay, we’re happy to guide you through:
- Colorado-specific home purchasing programs
- Aspen area tours and orientations
- Custom home searches based on your unique lifestyle
- Real estate assistance
- Moving company recommendations and special local rates
As local experts with a multitude of combined connections, we at Whitman Fine Properties are happy to help you plan your move to Aspen and ease your transition. We can provide you with local insider information, such as:
- Detailed maps of the Aspen area, including bike and walking paths, public transportation, schools, parks, and major landmarks.
- Details on local neighborhoods, including home styles and prices as well as any perks included.
- Guides to locals’ favorite food, shops, entertainment, and excursions around the area.
- Aspen relocation reminders to help you wrap up outstanding tasks at your current home and be prepared when you arrive at your new home in Aspen.
- Referrals and recommendations to locally applauded professionals such as doctors, financial planners, and landscapers.
Feel free to contact our team for a personalized introduction to Aspen, and your relocation to the Aspen area will go more smoothly than you could have dreamed!