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Black Forest

Black Forest

Located in El Paso County

$837,373 Average Value
$367 Average Price per Sq Ft
13 Homes For Sale

Colorado Springs suburb with a mountain-forest feel

Black Forest is a Colorado Springs suburb that attracts privacy seekers looking for larger lots, many of which are zoned for horses. Named for the thick mass of Ponderosa pines that blanket the area, this unincorporated area of El Paso County has a steady population of around 15,000 and just two traffic lights. “This area used to be way out there and would feel that way, but the town has grown so much that it’s really becoming more populated by people looking for that mountain-forest feel,” says Re/Max associate Lisa Pflugh, who has been selling in the region for nearly a decade. Boasting views of Pikes Peak in the distance, Black Forest sees a lot of transplants from other states and the military. “Colorado Springs has five military bases, so that is a population that is always on the move,” Pflugh says.

Enjoy living within the great outdoors at Black Forest, Colorado Springs, CO.
Enjoy living within the great outdoors at Black Forest, Colorado Springs, CO.
Black Forest has some wonderful trails winding throughout Colorado Springs, CO.
Black Forest has some wonderful trails winding throughout Colorado Springs, CO.
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Old cabins with modern additions and contemporary estate homes

The median home price in Black Forest is about $920,000, more than double the national number and well above the Colorado median of $600,000. The community attracts buyers looking for privacy and larger lots that can accommodate horses. Housing inventory is entirely single family, with no stock of condos and townhomes. Fox Run is a luxury neighborhood known for high price points. “There’s a dichotomy in housing here. Some homes are like someone’s old cabin, and they’ve added on over the years. And then you’ve got multimillion-dollar contemporary estate homes, and everything in between,” Pflugh says. “Our price points are typically appreciating at 4-5% a year. In 2020, it was 20%. I always tell people, especially during a time of high interest rates, to buy now because you can always refinance. If you wait, you’re fighting against appreciation, and if the rates drop, you’re fighting against more buyers.”

Black Forest is mainly comprised of large estates situated near Colorado's remarkable trees and mountains.
Black Forest is mainly comprised of large estates situated near Colorado's remarkable trees and mountains.
Black Forest, Colorado Springs, CO offers a range of private lifestyles depending on one's desires.
Black Forest, Colorado Springs, CO offers a range of private lifestyles depending on one's desires.
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The area is served by multiple public school districts

Colorado Springs School District No. 11 is graded B by Niche, with an A in diversity. The district serves over 20,000 students in 57 schools. Edith Wolford Elementary and Chinook Trail Elementary are two community schools that serve Black Forest.

Ray E. Kilmer is a public pre-K and elementary school in Black Hills.
Ray E. Kilmer is a public pre-K and elementary school in Black Hills.
Edith D. Wolford is a public pre-K and elementary school in Black Hills.
Edith D. Wolford is a public pre-K and elementary school in Black Hills.
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Black Forest Regional Park is the community's crown jewel

Colorado is known for boundless outdoor recreation, and Black Forest is no different. In addition to enjoying nature on their private property, the town has a few dedicated community parks, a public 18-hole golf course and regional access to some of the best hiking, hunting and fishing in the U.S. “The parks here are great, and you’ve always got people hiking the trails or riding horses,” Pflugh says. Situated on nearly 400 acres, Black Forest Regional Park is the community’s crown jewel, with over 4 miles of trails, a playground and picnic pavilion with views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range painting the distance. Fox Run Regional Park is another community hotspot known for its spectacular views. Set on just over 400 acres, the park has miles of trails and multiple ponds and hosts social events and sports programs.

Have fun on the swings at Black Forest Park.
Have fun on the swings at Black Forest Park.
There is a dedicated area for dogs at Fox Run Regional Park
There is a dedicated area for dogs at Fox Run Regional Park
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Shopping and dining is in nearby Northgate

Since Black Forest is almost entirely residential beyond a few lodging options, residents must go to the nearby suburb of Northgate for shopping and dining, where there is a shopping center anchored by a grocery store and a mix of chain and mom-and-pop dining establishments. "Northgate has a big entertainment center and the Ford Amphitheater is there," Pflugh says. For fine dining or a broader retail experience, residents can travel to nearby Colorado Springs or even Denver.

You'll find woodsy charm in the shopping and restaurants of Black Forest, Colorado Springs, CO.
You'll find woodsy charm in the shopping and restaurants of Black Forest, Colorado Springs, CO.
For shopping, eating, or even errands, the southern tip of Black Forest provides for all.
For shopping, eating, or even errands, the southern tip of Black Forest provides for all.
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Black Forest Festival Weekend in an annual event highlight

A tradition that started in 1969, the Black Forest Festival Weekend is the calendar highlight of annual events. The two-day August festival includes vendors, a pancake breakfast, live demonstrations, a parade and more.

Treat yourself to homemade sweats at the Black Forest Holiday Market in Black Forest, Colorado Springs, CO.
Treat yourself to homemade sweats at the Black Forest Holiday Market in Black Forest, Colorado Springs, CO.
Get here early for the Annual Black Forest Community Trunk-Or-Treat.
Get here early for the Annual Black Forest Community Trunk-Or-Treat.
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Stop-and-go traffic on the 60-mile trip to Denver

Black Forest has direct access to state Routes 83 and 21 and is about 5 miles west of Interstate 25. Denver is 60 miles north for commuters, and Colorado Springs is about 20 miles south. “Traffic is increasing with the population — it’s gotten much busier over the last few years,” Pflugh says. “There is stop-and-go traffic to Denver on the 25, so more people take 83, which has been expanded in some spots to accommodate more traffic.” Public transportation options are limited in the city. There is Greyhound bus service for out-of-town trips and an interregional express bus service called Bustang operated by the Colorado Department of Transportation. Colorado Springs Airport is only 20 miles away, but to catch an international flight outside of Cancun, residents must make the trip to Denver.

Increased snowfall along the Palmer Divide

Black Forest has an alpine desert climate known for blue skies and low humidity. Summers are warm, with daytime temperatures in the 80s that fall comfortably into the 50s at night. Winters are cold, with moderate snowfall and daytime temperatures in the 40s. “There’s a joke in Colorado that you must dress for all seasons in one day in the winter. It might be cold and snowy in the morning, so you’ve got your big coat on, then the sun sets in by afternoon, and you’re fine in just a vest. Then it gets super cold again at night,” Pflugh says. The city is located on the Palmer Divide, an area between Denver and Colorado Springs with north winds known to cause more significant snowfall events. Denver sees between 65 and 70 inches of snow in the winter and Colorado Springs gets about 40 inches, while Black Forest can see over 100. “One thing about the snow is that it normally melts in a couple of days because of the sun, particularly if you’re facing south,” Pflugh says.

Due to its rural location and dense coverage of Ponderosa pines, the wildfire risk in Black Forest is substantial. There was a major fire in 2013 that destroyed hundreds of buildings. “The pine trees are a tinder box. When you live in an area like this, you must do fire mitigation on your property, like raking up the highly flammable pine needles that are dry and have resin,” Pflugh says. “Insurance in this area is becoming more expensive because insurance companies are pulling out."

Crime statistics for Black Forest were not immediately available.

Amber Steinmetz-Cole
Written By
Amber Steinmetz-Cole
Evan Melgren
Photography Contributed By
Evan Melgren
Tyler Hall
Video By
Tyler Hall

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Tamara Whalen, an experienced agent in this area.

Agents Specializing in this Area

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Schools

Source:
GreatSchools: The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process. View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

Parks in this Area

Crime and Safety

1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime Black Forest US
Homicide 3 4
Sexual Assault 1 4
Assault with Weapon 2 4
Robbery 2 4
Burglary 3 4
Motor Vehicle Theft 3 4
Larceny 3 4
Crime Score 2 4

Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com

Area Facts

Number of Homes
28
Number of Homes for Sale
13
Median Year Built
2024
Months of Supply
156.00
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
3,145
Significantly above the national average
1,931
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
8,494

Open Houses

  • Friday, May 1
    Open Fri 4PM - 6PM

    4740 Foxchase Way, Colorado Springs, CO 80908

    $2,295,000

    • 6 Beds
    • 6 Baths
    • 5,376 Sq Ft
    • 4740 Foxchase Way
    • New 20 days ago

    Immaculately maintained and thoughtfully updated, this exceptional Cathedral Pines ranch offers true main level living on 2.88 acres with breathtaking Pikes Peak views. Major recent improvements include a new roof, new boiler for the 6 zone radiant heat system, new furnace, and new AC, offering peace of mind along with timeless quality and comfort. Inside, the open floor plan is warm, inviting,

    Agent Photo
    Aimee Fletcher
    eXp Realty, LLC
    (866) 593-4286
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  • Sunday, May 3
    Open Sun 1PM - 4PM

    7991 Pennydale Dr, Colorado Springs, CO 80908

    $675,000

    • 4 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 2,939 Sq Ft
    • 7991 Pennydale Dr

    Better than new and thoughtfully upgraded at every turn, this stunning home blends refined design with everyday comfort. From the moment you arrive, the custom walkway accented with black river rock and designer boulders sets the tone for what’s inside — intentional, elevated, and beautifully maintained. The backyard is truly exceptional. Framed by custom landscaping including five evergreens,

    Agent Photo
    Ramon Milano
    Exp Realty LLC
    (877) 730-2158
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  • Saturday, May 2
    Open Sat 11AM - 2PM

    5618 Makalu Dr, Colorado Springs, CO 80924

    $610,000

    • 5 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 3,024 Sq Ft
    • 5618 Makalu Dr
    • New 22 days ago

    Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac in the desirable Bradley Ranch community, this well-appointed home offers the perfectbalance of comfort, functionality, and access to the outdoors. Backing to open space and surrounded by scenic walkingtrails, the setting provides a peaceful backdrop with easy access to nature, in addition to being just minutes away fromthe variety of recreation

    Agent Photo
    Scott Coddington
    Pulse Real Estate Group LLC
    (833) 545-7437
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Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Neighborhoods in Black Forest

Property Mix - Square Feet

Black Forest Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population
16,820
Median Age
47
Population under 18
22.1%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
23.5%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$149,812
Significantly above the national average
$79,597
Average Household Income
$173,983

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
97.4%
Above the national average
89%
College Graduates
54.6%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
21%
% Population in Labor Force
65.9%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
22''
Average Winter Low Temperature
16°F
Average Summer High Temperature
81°F
Annual Snowfall
64''

Area Factors

Somewhat friendly

Bike Score®®

30 / 100

Not friendly

Walk Score®®

0 / 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic

Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.

Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
Black Forest