Corrections-focused community that is home to 11 prison facilities
The county seat of Fremont County, Cañon City is a sleepy southern Colorado community of about 17,000 residents. Situated 40 miles south of Colorado Springs and 40 miles west of Pueblo, the city has a decidedly small-town feel despite being a reasonable driving distance to major urban centers — Denver is only 115 miles north. “This is a nice, quiet area. The people are friendly, the community is helpful, and we have unbelievable outdoor amenities,” says Realtor/broker John Liese of Pikes Peak Dream Homes Realty, who has been listing and selling in the area for nearly a decade and made it his home in 2020. Home to the Museum of Colorado Prisons, Cañon City is a corrections-focused community famously home to 11 correctional facilities — seven state and four federal prisons. “A lot of people that live around here work at the prison facilities, but we do get people from all over moving to this area for different reasons,” Liese says.
Cañon City is home to 11 prisons, 4 federal and 7 state, making the Department of Corrections one of the cities biggest employers.
Visiting the Museum of Colorado Prisons is uniquely a Cañon City experience.
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Discounted home prices compared to the Colorado median
In early 2025, the median home price in Cañon City was around $425,000, compared to $400,000 nationally and over $600,000 in Colorado. "A four-bedroom, three-bath home here may be around $360,000, but in Colorado Springs, it's going to be $100,000 more," Liese says. Some of the oldest real estate around the downtown historic district was built in the late 1800s, but there is a mix of housing from different eras, including new housing developments like the one at Four Mile Ranch Golf Club. "New housing developments have started to take off. It's not like we have 400 homes on a sprawling development, though, it's more like 20 homes at a time," Liese says. "This is a high-desert area, so the vast majority of the newer stuff will be the stucco ranch-style home." Some of the most expensive properties are off Forge Road and Tanner Parkway in the city's southwest section, while the majority of homes are around the downtown area.
Home sizes and styles vary widely in Cañon City.
These Cañon City craftsman style homes are very similar, you completely different.
As Cañon City grows, new homes are popping up northeast of downtown.
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Eating and shopping in and around Canon City
There are commercial stretches along Main Street and Fremont Drive around downtown Cañon City. “Downtown, you’ve got something like eight restaurants in four blocks, everything from pizza to Mexican or fast food. And there are a few dining spots next door in Florence, so you don’t have to drive to Colorado Springs or Pueblo for a meal,” Liese says. There is a Safeway and Walmart for stocking up on groceries and essentials, as well as a couple of shopping plazas, but residents have to travel for a more robust retail experience. “You are 35 minutes from the mall and Pueblo and less than an hour from shopping in Colorado Springs,” Liese says.
The Owl Cigar Store is a Cañon City legend that serves up some scrumptious burgers and milkshakes.
Stepping into Cañon City's Owl Cigar Store is like taking a trip back in time.
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Playgrounds and pavilions at Centennial Park
Cañon City has a handful of community parks that feature sports facilities, playgrounds and pavilions. Centennial Park is the city’s crown jewel and home to annual events like the Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival and Arbor Day. Situated in a mountain bowl along the Arkansas River, the city has boundless outdoor recreation, from hiking and biking to fishing and hunting. “There is a ton of fishing, camping and whitewater rafting in the area. You can follow the river all the way into the mountains for some of the most gorgeous scenic fishing you can imagine,” Liese says. It’s under 5 miles from downtown to hiking at the trailhead in Temple Canyon Park.
Centennial Park is one of the more popular parks in Cañon City.
Let the kiddos run off some energy on the playground at Centennial Park.
Centennial Park has many areas to enjoy a picnic.
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Art in the Park is held each summer
Cañon City has a full calendar of seasonal events for a town of its size. "From May until October, there is literally always something to do," Liese says. In the spring, there is the Antique and Classic Car Show at the Abbey and the Music & Blossom Festival. Summer brings Art in the Park and the annual Fourth of July Celebration. Boo at the Bridge and the Turkey Trot are highlights of the fall, and the Christmas Parade of Lights and tree lighting ceremony occur in November and December.
Cañon City celebrates Halloween with the "Boo on the Bridge" event.
There are local events throughout the year in Cañon City, few bigger than the Music & Blossom Festival.
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Easy drives to nearby Pueblo and Colorado Springs
Cañon City has direct access to U.S. Route 50, which connects to Pueblo to the east. Colorado Springs is about 45 miles north via State Route 115. “They just widened 115 over the last few years, so now there are enough passing lanes where you don’t get stuck behind big trucks the whole way. It’s a much easier drive to get there,” Liese says. There isn't much in the way of public transportation, but Fremont County Transit operates limited bus service in the city, and other curb-to-curb options are available. The closest major airport is Colorado Springs. CommonSpirit — St. Thomas More Hospital is the city’s primary medical facility.
Cañon City schools
The Cañon City School District is graded B-minus by Niche. The district has 11 schools and serves approximately 3,500 students.
Washington Elementary School of the Cañon City School District RE-1.
Most students in the area will complete their public education at Cañon City High School.
Cañon City Middle School serves grades 6 through 8.
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High-mountain desert climate with less snow than areas nearby
Cañon City has a semi-arid high-mountain desert climate with four distinct seasons categorized by warm summers in the mid-to-upper 80s and winters in the 40s. Drastic temperature swings from day to night, and moderate precipitation is typical throughout the year. “In terms of snow, we don’t get a lot here because we’re at a lower elevation. We might get five inches of snow here, which would be a lot, but 15 minutes south, they might have three feet,” Liese says. “The climate here is interesting. We don’t get as hot or cold as Pueblo and Colorado Springs; temperatures are milder, and when it snows, it melts quickly.”
Wildfire is the predominant environmental concern in Cañon City, which encourages fire mitigation efforts and education among homeowners. The landscape is known to be dry and packed with vegetation that can erupt under certain conditions. Some insurers are leaving the state due to wildfires and rising costs, which means higher rates. For those at extreme risk, the Colorado FAIR Plan is in place for buyers otherwise rejected for coverage. FAIR Plan policies are known to be particularly expensive and have more limited coverage.
Crime statistics for Cañon City were not immediately available.
Written By
Amber Steinmetz-Cole
Photography Contributed By
Karl Brewick
Video By
Pasha Chichagov
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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On average, homes in Canon City, CO sell after 87 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Canon City, CO over the last 12 months is $320,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Charming Bungalow 2 bed and 1 bath and detached garage. High wood panel fencing around the entire property, with RV parking within the fence. Updated home, move in ready. Large bonus room off of the kitchen 21ftx13ft, could easily be a primary bedroom or a large family room. The home is located in the historic Brookside neighborhood. You get the small town feel and still close to many amenities.
Luxury living awaits in this well-maintained home located in the prestigious Cranberry Park subdivision. Featuring a spacious master bedroom with walk-in closet and a large master bath, this split-design property offers the utmost comfort and privacy with bedrooms on opposite sides. Enjoy the convenience of a walk-in shower, gas fireplace, central air, forced air heat, and a vaulted ceiling. The
Work From Home Potential and Affordable Square Footage and Unique Design with the perfect space for the Back Yard of Your Dreams. The Feel of being out in the Country...surrounded by Huge Maples, Peach, Apple, Pear and Plum Trees. Just minutes from all the In Town Amenities with this spacious, fenced property! The Kitchen is bright and open to the Living Room. The First Bedroom you'll encounter
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath HUD- mobile home located in the desirable Lamplighter Mobile Home Park in Canon City. Built in 2019, this modern home features a spacious open floor plan with a seamless flow between the living, dining, and kitchen areas—perfect for both relaxing and entertaining.Enjoy the outdoors in your fully fenced yard—ideal for pets,
Price Reduced! Now Under $300,000! Flexible, Spacious Main Level Space in a Prime Business Location on Main Street in Canon City. The Property is centrally located 1 block off Highway 50 with easy access to and from any part of town. Near a host of restaurants, businesses, schools and shopping, the options are wide open for this property. Formerly a long running local salon. Infrastructure still
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bath ranch-style home located in the highly desirable Dawson Ranch HOA community of Cañon City.This spacious home offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and Colorado lifestyle living. The main level features a large, inviting living room filled with natural light, creating an ideal space for entertaining or relaxing. The
Discover comfort and convenience in this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 1-bath home located in the heart of Caon City, Colorado. Step inside to find a warm, inviting living space enhanced with modern amenities while maintaining its classic charm. The spacious kitchen features stylish updates perfect for everyday cooking or entertaining. Two comfortable bedrooms and a refreshed bathroom offer cozy
Check out this spacious property with income potential! The main home offers 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and two separate living areas, providing flexibility for everyday living and entertaining. A wood-burning fireplace adds warmth and character, solar panels help keep heating costs down and recent updates including a newer roof and new carpet in two bedrooms make this home ready for it's next
Exceptional Colorado views, quality construction and a beautiful setting make this Cañon City home truly stand out. Designed to take advantage of its surroundings, the property offers sweeping panoramic views of the mountains and surrounding landscape, creating an impressive backdrop from inside and out.Built with durability and craftsmanship in mind, this solidly constructed home
A standout feature of this amazing 35 acre property is the 1,687 sq ft guesthouse offering 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a full kitchen, living room, and an additional kitchenette—ideal for guests or multigenerational living. Discover unmatched privacy, comfort, and luxury in the stunning 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom main home, which offers high-end finishes, expansive living spaces and breathtaking views -
Discover the space, flexibility, and comfort you've been searching for at 811 Meadows. With four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and separate living areas, this home offers room to spread out, gather together, and adapt to your changing needs.The main living room features a cozy fireplace insert, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for relaxing evenings and seasonal gatherings. The kitchen
Set in Dawson Ranch with mountain and foothill views, this 5-bedroom, 3-bath home offers a flexible layout, generous indoor living space, and outdoor areas designed to enjoy the setting. The main level features an open living, dining, and kitchen area with vaulted ceilings, wood-look flooring, updated lighting, and natural light. The kitchen is a standout with granite counters, abundant
Located in desirable Dawson Ranch, this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers comfort, space, and functionality on a large lot with exceptional outdoor privacy and views. Gorgeous hardwood floors flow throughout the home, complementing the open-concept layout designed for everyday living and entertaining.The spacious kitchen features abundant cupboard space and opens
Escape to your private cul-de-sac home in highly desirable Dawson Ranch neighborhood. This three bedroom 2 bath home has open concept living, dining, and kitchen area that serves as the ultimate hub for entertaining or relaxing in the living room with the cozy gas fireplace or sitting at the window seating admiring the mountain views. The kitchen offers functionality with a massive storage
Welcome home to 714 Woodlawn in beautiful Cañon City! This inviting rental offers comfortable living space in a convenient location, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a place to call home. Enjoy easy access to local shopping, restaurants, parks, schools, and other nearby amenities. With a welcoming layout and a great location, this home is ready for its next residents. Please call
Nestled in Canon City, 1120 1/2 S 9th exudes sophisticated luxury across its two-story expanse. Bathed in natural light, the spacious living area boasts gleaming hardwood floors and tasteful accents, ideal for relaxation and entertainment. The kitchen features stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, and granite countertops, complemented by a formal dining room and cozy breakfast nook.
Welcome to 311 Macon #1. This bright, move-in-ready unit combines comfort and convenience in a quiet, friendly neighborhood. Featuring a smart layout and inviting living spaces, it’s perfect for tenants looking for a hassle-free rental. Enjoy being just minutes from local shops, dining, and everyday amenities while coming home to a peaceful, welcoming space. Property also has a shared back yard
2 Bedroom 1 Bath house with a front yard near downtown. This home has been repainted inside. Please inquire about pets before applying. Deposit is set off background check. Please see our policy at: .
This is a 1 bedroom, 1 bath home with a yard. Please inquire about pets before applying. Deposit is set off background check. Please see our policy at: .
This one bedroom home is newly remodeled, has a full kitchen, nice three-quarter bath and laundry, along with a private patio and shed. Enjoy your offstreet parking at your one bedroom home close to a park.
Home was recently remodeled and has 2 bedroom with an office that could be a 3rd bedroom or additional space. Large galley kitchen with laundry room off the back. A must see home! May allow 1 small dog, with a deposit and pet rent, on a case by case basis. Please inquire on your pet prior to applying.Deposit is set off background check. Please see our policy at: .
Nice 3 bedroom home centrally located in Canon City. There is a 4th room that could be used as a bedroom, office or den! Large yard with an attached and detached garage!A dog may be allowed with an additional deposit and pet rent. Please inquire ahead of time.
This charming and cozy mobile home has recently updated flooring, two bedrooms, and one and half bathrooms with washer dryer hook ups. The property features plenty of living space, great neighbors, and has direct access to Mountain View Park in Northern Canon City. Rent is $1050.00 and that includes water, sewer and trash. Deposit is $1050.00 depending on credit.1 Pet is welcome with
This 2 bedroom 2 bath has plenty of room. There is a living room, family room with a gas fireplace, a dining area, and a laundry area. Please inquire about pets before applying. Deposit is set off background check. Please see our policy at: .
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