An expanding city filled with charm in northern Colorado
With views of the Rocky Mountains Front Range, in the foothills of northern Colorado, Fort Collins is a lively and historic city with a close-knit community. Arts and music events are held throughout the year, and residents are never far from mountain and riverside recreation.
Colorado State University was established in 1870 and remains one of the city's largest employers, along with UCHealth, Advanced Energy and Poudre School District. In 1862, Camp Collins was established as a military outpost along the Overland Trail near the Cache La Poudre River. Roughly eight years later, the former camp began to develop into a small town, and its population has been increasing ever since. Today, Fort Collins is home to over 170,000 residents.
A short drive from Huntington Hills, Horse Tooth Reservoir provides additional outdoor r
Old Town West is next to the bustling center of Fort Collins.
The Canvas Stadium at CSU is just down the street from the Sheely Addition neighborhood.
University Park residents love the Lagoon Summer Concert Series.
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Old Town's shopping hub
Old Town serves as the city’s shopping and dining hub, with dozens of local restaurants and unique storefronts. Long-standing, family-owned eateries sit next to used bookstores, trendy bars and comedy clubs.
Neighborhoods like Troutman Park and The Landings flank midtown Fort Collins' more commercial district, which features shopping centers with big-box grocery stores, chain restaurants and more. Notably, Foothills shopping mall has 29 stores and 14 restaurants.
Old Town West is walking distance from local events.
Zwei Brewing Co. offers a great selection of beers on tap nearby Mission Hills.
Old Town West is just blocks from downtown and its attractions.
Downtown Fort Collins features vibrant shops, dining, and historic charm.
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A diverse housing market on the Poudre River
The city has a widely diverse housing market, from 19th-century Victorians near Old Town and University Park to newly built modern traditional and Craftsman-style homes in eastern neighborhoods like Bucking Horse and Lake Sherwood. “We’re still seeing low inventory, but there’s a renewed interest in the market these days with the lower interest rates,” says Associate Broker Laura Olive with RE/MAX Alliance, who has over 40 years of experience in the Northern Colorado real estate market. The median sales price hovers around $657,000. Additionally, homes in Fort Collins cost more on average than the state and national averages.
Craftsman-inspired bungalows are popular Old Town West properties.
Kechter Farm is a historical property located in Fort Collins, Colorado.
Homes in the Kechter Farm area can be a mix of modern and traditional designs.
Colorful bungalows are everywhere in Old Town.
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Mountainous and riverside recreation in the Front Range
One of the biggest draws to the city is its proximity to a bounty of outdoor recreation. The Poudre River runs northeast of downtown through natural areas and alongside walking trails. The Spring Creek Trail connects some of the city’s most popular recreation areas, including a creekside park in Edora Acres and the Rolland Moore Park. The Horsetooth Reservoir, which spans 1,900 acres, is the largest and most popular in the Fort Collins area and lies just west of the city’s suburbs, with over 20 miles of trails in the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. Additionally, Rocky Mountain National Park is around 45 miles away, roughly a 70-minute drive, from downtown.
A Rogers Park couple spend their afternoon hiking the trails along Horsetooth Reservoir.
Surrounded by lush green and fall colored trees, Fort Collins homeowners have wonderful views.
Fort Collins offers a vibrant real estate market, great outdoor living, and much more.
Younger University Park children love the watery shores of the university lagoon.
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An active art scene in Fort Collins
Known as the Cultural Capital of Northern Colorado, Fort Collins has six live-theater stages, a symphony orchestra, a ballet troupe, and an opera – with performances all year long. Additionally, The Lincoln Center is Northern Colorado’s largest presenter of professional performing arts. As the city’s cultural arts center, it hosts nationally touring Broadway shows and concerts.
Downtown’s Old Town District is flush with shops and galleries featuring local artwork. The First Friday Art Walk is a monthly event that allows collectors and community members to admire the paintings and galleries on display. Another important factor to Fort Collins’ culture is its 20 award-winning craft breweries. As Colorado’s Craft Beer Capital, the city is home to well-known breweries such as Anheuser-Busch and New Belgium Brewing Co. “We’re known as the Napa Valley of beer here,” Olive says.
You can find local artist around nearby Downtown Fort Collins.
You can find many events at The Foothills Mall which is 5 minutes from Indian Hills.
Rally King is a local brewery on the southwestern edge of Highlander Heights.
The action of Downtown Fort Collins is only 10 minutes by car from Highlander Heights.
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Quality education for kindergarten through college
Local families are served by the Poudre School District, which earns an A grade from Niche, which also ranks it as the seventh-best school district in Colorado. The district has 32 elementary schools, nine middle schools and seven high schools, as well as two specialty schools and six charter schools.
Colorado State University plays a big role in the community, enrolling over 33,000 students. During the school year, Old Town becomes more active, and restaurants have special happy-hour deals. Additionally, CSU hosts numerous events and attractions, including the Annual Flower Trial Gardens, where hundreds of floral varieties are planted and monitored by the university’s department of horticulture. On Friday evenings in the fall, Live! at CSU is a free concert series that draws in attendees from across the city, while the Lagoon Concert Series is held on Wednesdays in June and July.
Dunn Elementary sits at the southern edge of Old Town West.
Riffenburgh Elementary School has a 17 to 1 student to teacher ratio.
Fort Collins High School is the #3 rated high school in Larimer County.
Lesher Middle School serves over 700 students yearly from grades 6th - 8th.
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Traveling around Northern Colorado
According to FBI data, property and violent crime rates in Fort Collins are lower than the state average. The city has a slightly higher rate of property crime, compared nationally, but a lower rate of violent crime.
Fort Collins is known for its bikeable streets, with over 200 miles of roadside bike lanes and biking trails throughout the city. “When the weather is nice, I like to ride my bike to work downtown,” says Mike Sibbald, a longtime Fort Collins Resident and Realtor with Elevations Real Estate. “It’s pretty common for people to bike to work or to grab a drink in Old Town. Even if you live on the south side of town near Village East and Warren Shores, it’s only a 5-mile ride.”
The city’s Transfort bus system operates over 20 routes across town, while MAX Rapid Transit bus provides direct transportation to downtown and other major employment areas. Interstate 25 runs north to south just east of Fort Collins and can take drivers to nearby cities like Denver and Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Written By
Jillian Pillow
Photography Contributed By
Paul Winner
Video By
Mallory Nolte
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Fort Collins, CO sell after 52 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Fort Collins, CO over the last 12 months is $575,000, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Historic 1900 Victorian Farmhouse Homestead just 10 miles from Colorado State University and 30 minutes to Cheyenne for out-of-state collegiate students. This 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom Victorian farmhouse offers a fully equipped hobby farm and homesteading lifestyle. Inside, the home features high ceilings, stainless steel components, and a wood-burning stove that efficiently heats the entire home.
MOVE-IN READY. Farmhouse elevation Magnolia plan by Hartford Homes in Bloom in Fort Collins. New construction cottage. Open floor plan, two story. Kitchen w/ island. Powder bath on main level. Eucalyptus painted maple cabinetry. Quartz countertops. Vinyl plank flooring and carpet. S.s. dishwasher, fridge, microwave, range. Second level has 2 bedrooms and laundry w/ Washer & dryer included.
Tucked away, yet right in the middle of it all. This impeccably maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home sits in a prime Fort Collins location that quietly elevates everyday living. ----- The location does the heavy lifting. Genesis Gym is a 6-minute drive or 12-minute bike ride. Breckenridge Brewery is 8 minutes by car, 15 by bike. Fort Collins' Old Town and Farmers Market is just 9 minutes away, or
Welcome to this beautifully updated, move-in-ready 2-bedroom, 2-bath townhome on the desirable west side of Fort Collins. Completely renovated from top to bottom, the home combines modern design with major system upgrades for both comfort and peace of mind. Inside, you'll find a bright, open-concept living area filled with natural light, featuring new luxury vinyl plank flooring, fresh carpet,
This beautifully maintained two-story cottage at MacKenzie Place is located in the heart of Fort Collins in a 55+ community. This 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath home features an open floor plan filled with natural light and a spacious living area ideal for everyday living. Wood floors, upgraded black stainless steel appliances, and convenient main-level laundry add style and function, while pride of
Discover comfort, convenience, and an active lifestyle in this beautifully maintained cottage at MacKenzie Place, an exclusive 55+ community in the heart of Fort Collins. Ideally situated on a southwest-facing corner lot, the inviting front porch overlooks the green space and clubhouse, creating a peaceful setting to enjoy your morning coffee or visit with neighbors. Offering a larger footprint
PRICE IMPROVEMENT!! Join our open house this Friday (July 30th) from 3PM to 5PM. Welcome to Penny Flats, a modern and conveniently located community built in 2008, blocks from Old Town Square, the Poudre River, and Lee Martinez Park. This thoughtfully designed condo features a spacious primary bedroom, a versatile flex room ideal for a home office or guest space, and two bathrooms. The
Seller just completed $17k in upgrades in this condo! Great top floor end unit with beautiful views of the ponds & Horsetooth Rock plus there are extra windows for more natural light! This great condo is located within a half of mile to CSU, restaurants, shopping, Rolland Moore Park, Red Fox Meadows Natural Area and Spring Creek Trail! Why pay rent when you can own, this is a fabulous investment!
Ultimate Privacy Meets Entertainer's Dream! Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this exceptional 3-bedroom, 4-bathroom home offers unparalleled privacy, bordered by protected open space behind & across the street. The main level welcomes you with soaring 9 ft. ceilings, newer flooring and a bright eat-in kitchen complete with newer stainless-steel appliances. Upstairs, the thoughtful
Welcome to this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath bi-level home located at the endof a quiet cul-de-sac with limited traffic and a location that puts you minutes fromHorsetooth reservoir, biking trails, and CSU. Lovingly maintained by the original owners,this home offers the perfect combination of thoughtful updates, flexibility, andconvenience - all with the added benefit of no HOA and no
Don't miss the breathtaking views from this 0.34 acre lot overlooking Horsetooth Reservoir and Fort Collins! Amazing location just 20 minutes from town and located next to Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. Build your dream home and start living the Colorado life, with boating, fishing, mountain biking, and hiking just outside your front door. Please note there are no utilities at the property.
Welcome to your dream home in the highly desirable Harvest Park subdivision! This meticulously maintained and beautifully updated end-unit offers the ultimate in main-floor living, boasting an expansive 2,950 square feet of thoughtful design. As you step inside, you are greeted by an airy open floor plan accentuated by gorgeous hardwood floors throughout. The inviting living area serves as the
Welcome to a beautifully updated residence in the highly desirable Huntington Hills community known for it's mature trees, community charm, and convenient location. The home is located on oversized corner lot w/ greenbelt between your neighbors to the north. As you step inside, you're welcomed by a bright, open floor plan with vaulted ceilings. The inviting family room features a cozy fireplace,
Some neighborhoods you move to. Some you wait for. Bucking Horse is one of those. It's easy to see why. Beyond the neighborhood pool, parks, and miles of trails, you're just a short walk from Jessup Farm Artisan Village-one of Fort Collins' favorite gathering spots for coffee, dinner with friends, boutique shopping, craft cocktails, and, of course, ice cream. It's the kind of neighborhood where
Discover easy, single-level living near the energy of Old Town Fort Collins. This ground-floor corner condo offers a townhome-style feel with tall ceilings, oversized windows, and an open layout filled with natural light. The spacious kitchen provides ample cabinetry and workspace, flowing comfortably into the dining and living areas for everyday living or entertaining. All kitchen appliances are
Settlers' Creek offers luxury resort comforts tucked among the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Our convenient location means you will live at the center of it all. With fast access to I-25 and convenient bus stops only steps away, you are minutes from Colorado State University, Front Range Community College, Downtown Fort Collins, shopping centers, parks, restaurants and more. After a long day,
Spacious one, two, and three-bedroom apartments with upscale finishes and smart features. Minutes from hiking, biking, boating, and skiing, our pet-friendly community includes an on-site dog park. After your adventures, unwind with resort-style amenities and relaxing spaces. Timnath Trail at Riverbend isnt just an apartment - its luxury living designed for your lifestyle.
The Social West® offers spacious studios and one and two-bedroom floor plan options in the dynamic area of Elizabeth Street. The community provides easy access to Colorado State University and is within walking and biking distance of many facilities in the area including Horsetooth Reservoir and Spring Canyon Community Park. The Social West® is a pet-friendly community, welcoming both cats and
Nestled in a serene, residential community featuring studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments for rent in Fort Collins, CO. The Granary embodies quiet luxury and effortless living. Its allure is heightened by the surrounding array of exceptional and exceptionally close neighborhood conveniences. Our brand-new apartments are designed with meticulous attention to sustainable principles and filled
Governor's Park is a wonderful apartment community centrally located in Fort Collins, Colorado. Well designed with attention to detail, each of our studios, lofts, one and two-bedroom floor plans come fully equipped with wood-burning fireplaces, washers and dryers, plush wall-to-wall carpeting, and select units have private balconies and patios, walk-in closets, and hardwood flooring. As a
The Social at Stadium Walk® offers spacious one and two-bedroom floorplan options in the energetic area of Southern CSU. The community provides easy access to campus and nearby old town Fort Collins and is within walking and biking distance of many facilities in the area including Horsetooth Reservoir and Spring Canyon Community Park. At The Social at Stadium Walk®, the possibilities are endless!
ReNew Foothills® offers spacious two-bedroom floorplan options in the energetic yet pleasing aura of the Fort Collins area. The community provides easy access to Elizabeth Street and is within walking and biking distance of many facilities in the area including Colorado State University, Horsetooth Reservoir, and Spring Canyon Community Park. ReNew Foothills® is a pet-friendly community,
Located in Fort Collins' sought-after Old Town neighborhood, Ascend at Old Town brings a modern, unique feel to everyday living. Offering garden-style and two-story homes all equipped with attached garages, these modern interiors fit your needs. With smart home locks and select homes featuring personal balconies and fenced front yards, every detail was crafted for the way you live. At Ascend at
** Please call before applying to verify availability! Changes to site can take 24 hours to provide accurate information **Nestled in the heart of Fort Collins, Aspenleaf Apartments is located on 17 acres in a serene, park like setting. We offer spacious one- and two-bedroom floor plans complete with 9 ft. ceilings, lovely kitchens furnished with self-cleaning ovens, garbage
Harmony at Willow Springs Apartments in Fort Collins, CO, offer luxurious living in the scenic Willow Springs neighborhood. Our one, two, and three-bedroom apartments near CSU feature vaulted ceilings, relaxing balconies, large walk-in closets, in-unit washers and dryers, and cozy fireplaces. Plus, we're pet-friendly!Enjoy our premium amenities, including a swimming pool, bark
Welcome to Landing at Lemay, a brand-new luxury apartment community in the heart of Fort Collins. Choose from spacious 1, 2, and 3-bedroom floor plans thoughtfully designed with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, wood-style flooring, oversized closets, in-home washers and dryers, and private balconies or patios with mountain views. Relax and recharge with
Welcome to Stadium, the ultimate student-living experience in Fort Collins near Colorado State University. Just minutes from campus, Stadium offers an array of fully furnished floor plans, including two-, three-, four-, and five-bedroom apartments with exceptional features. Our private bedrooms, spacious living areas, and modern amenities make every layout perfect for studying, relaxing, and
In Prospect of Spring Meadows, residents stroll from cul-de-sacs of townhouses and ranch-style homes down sidewalk paths leading to a woodsy nature preserve. The park is part of many people’s daily routines and surrounds one of Fort Collins’ main bike trails — Spring Creek Trail. “The main draw for my buyer was the nice walking path along the water there,” says Realtor Lori Smith who works with First Colorado Realty and has almost two decades of experience in the area. This slice of everyday life may look like it belongs in the suburbs, but Prospect of Spring Meadows is a city neighborhood only a mile east of bustling retail. The area appeals to those who want a suburban vibe only minutes away from bustling Old Town and Colorado State University. <br><br>Centered around a nature preserve called Mallard's Nest Natural Area, Prospect at Spring Meadows has a suburban feel. It features cul-de-sacs of townhouses and condominiums. Most of the area’s single-family homes are on its northern edge on East Prospect Road. They have yards around 3,000 square feet in size, some with garden beds planted with lilac and sumac bushes. The neighborhood’s architecture includes contemporary townhouses, condos, split-levels and ranch-style homes from the 1990s. Contemporary townhouses range from $400,000 to $500,000, while ranch-style homes range from $600,000 to $700,000. Condos start from $300,000 and go up to $350,000. “Prices have gone up like everywhere else. There’s a strong market because it’s a desirable neighborhood,” Smith says.<br><br>O’Dea Elementary School has a B-plus rating on Niche. Lesher Middle School also has a B-plus. Fort Collins High School has an A-minus grade and allows students to choose from multiple academic pathways, including Bioscience Career Academy and Performing Arts. <br><br>Mallard's Nest Natural Area lies in the middle of Prospect at Spring Meadows, with multiple sidewalk paths leading to the park. Shaded by trees, it’s a nature preserve along Spring Creek. The popular neighborhood staple has the Spring Creek Trail, where people walk their dogs and ride their bikes on a regular basis. This is a small portion of the trail, which spans about 14 miles from Riverbend Ponds Natural Area to Spring Canyon Park. Many Fort Collins cyclists complete the whole path. Spring Hill Park is another dog-friendly recreation space on the trail only about half a mile west of the neighborhood. It features a new playground, a path around a pond and ballfields. <br><br>South College Avenue, the area’s main retail area, is between Prospect at Spring Meadows and Colorado State University. The area has a college town feel, with plenty of diverse restaurant options. Bawarchi Biryanis serves Indian Food on a patio lit by lanterns and an interior with TVs playing Bollywood movies. At Music City Hot Chicken, patrons can order Nashville-inspired wings in a laidback bar atmosphere. As for shopping, Olive Tree Market has specialty Mediterranean groceries, while Whole Foods Market is the neighborhood’s closest supermarket. About 2 miles from Old Town, Prospect at Spring Meadows is close to Fort Collin’s historical downtown, which brims with restaurants, local shops and entertainment. <br><br>At the Gardens on Spring Creek, located about 2 miles west of the neighborhood, locals can stroll through about 20 acres of botanical gardens. There's also concerts on the lawn in the summertime and a Christmas lights display in the winter. A mile east of Colorado State University, the neighborhood is close to some of the university’s cultural attractions, like the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art and the University Center for the Arts, which hosts concerts and plays. Moby Arena hosts basketball games, where fans of the Colorado State Rams can cheer for their home team. <br><br>Prospect at Spring Meadows is a semi-walkable and highly bikeable community. It's located 2 miles south of downtown Fort Collins via Whedbee Street. Those who prefer public transit can catch a Transfort bus at stops along East Prospect Road. For the nearest medical center, UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital is a mile north of the neighborhood. Denver International Airport, the closest major airport, is about 70 miles south.
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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.
