Why Live in Rifle
Rifle, Colorado, a small city along the Colorado River, retains an Old West charm while offering modern amenities and abundant natural recreation. The city’s economy is driven by agriculture, tourism, and energy production, with a diverse small business scene providing employment and entertainment. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy dirt-biking on the Roan Plateau, rock climbing at Rifle Mountain Park, and beach activities at Harvey Gap State Park. Centennial Park features a sundial, cowboy statue, playground, and the Rifle Creek Trail with historical interpretive signs. Metro Park and Deerfield Park offer community pools and sports fields. Rifle’s historic downtown, with its old-school storefronts and dining options on Railroad Avenue, attracts tourists, while local restaurants often feature locally raised beef. The Ute Theater, renovated in 2014, hosts free music events, and the Garfield County Fairgrounds offer rodeos, concerts, and demolition derbies. Housing in Rifle ranges from pre-World War I homes to modern manufactured homes, condos, and site-built properties, reflecting the city’s growth from 6,784 residents in 2000 to 10,437 by 2020. The Garfield Re-2 School District serves local students, and Colorado Mountain College offers programs in solar energy and welding. Rifle’s crime rate is well below the national median, though the city faces wildfire risks managed by Colorado River Fire Rescue. Located along Interstate 70, Rifle is about an hour’s drive from Grand Junction and has its own hospital, Grand River Health Rifle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular zip codes in Rifle, CO for renters?
The most popular zip codes in Rifle, CO for renters include
81650 and
81647.