Evergreen, Colorado, is a charming small town with a big heart. Known for its stunning natural beauty, friendly community, and outdoor recreation opportunities, Evergreen is a popular destination for retirees, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. But what about the cost of living in Evergreen? Is it affordable to live in this mountain paradise? As an Evergreen resident of 12 years, I’ll share my personal experience along with thorough research to cover the cost of housing, utilities, transportation, food, and healthcare.
What is the Cost of Living in Evergreen?
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s take a look at the overall cost of living index in Evergreen compared to Jackson Hole, Seattle, and Park City to put the cost into perspective.
The United States average cost of living index is 100, so anything ranked higher or lower will reflect the overall cost of living in comparison to the national average.
Evergreen: 158.8
Jackson Hole: 170.5
Seattle: 167.8
Park City: 186.6
Housing Costs
One of the biggest expenses for most people in Evergreen is housing. The median home price is around $900,000, which is higher than Denver’s average of about $550,000. However, there are a variety of options available, from apartments to luxury homes, so there is something for a variety of budgets. We sell homes all the time in the $600,000-900,000 range.
Renting is also an option in Evergreen, with the average monthly rent range for a three-bedroom house around $3,000-5,000 per month. However, rental inventory can be limited, so it’s important to start your search early if you’re looking to rent in Evergreen.
Utilities and Transportation Costs
Utility prices and housing expenses in Evergreen are generally in line with the national average. The average monthly cost for electricity, water, and gas is around $200-300 per month, depending on usage. Most homes in Evergreen do not have air conditioning, simply because it’s not needed. In the summer months, my utility bill is under $100/month.
Transportation costs in Evergreen can vary depending on your lifestyle–how often you visit the mountains, your work commute times, etc. You’ll need to factor in the gas prices, maintenance, and insurance for your car. It’s important to have at least an all-wheel drive vehicle to get around Evergreen and any trips you may take in the mountains.
Food and Entertainment Costs
Food and entertainment costs in Evergreen are generally in line with the national average. One of the great things about living in Evergreen is the access to outdoor recreation opportunities. Hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and fishing at Evergreen Lake are all popular outdoor activities in the area, and many of them are free or low-cost. Evergreen Parks and Recreation District also offers tons of activities ranging from ice skating classes to indoor rock climbing to children’s summer camps, so you’ll always be able to find something to do year-long.
The cost of food in Evergreen is roughly the same as the national average. There are a variety of restaurants and bars in town, ranging from upscale dining to casual pubs like Murphy’s Mountain Bar and Grill, Lariat Lodge Brewing Company, and Muddy Buck Cafe.
Healthcare Costs
The cost of health care is not necessarily higher than average, just more limited. Evergreen has a majority of your primary care needs covered including primary care physicians, dentists, optical, physical therapy, chiropractic, nutritionists, home health care and hospice, acupuncture, massage, and assisted living resources.
I’ve personally received a high level of care and attention at St. Anthony Health Center that I don’t think I could get living in the city. While the Evergreen community doesn’t have its own hospital or urgent care, you can drive about 25 minutes to NextCare Urgent Care in Golden. Major medical resources can be found about 25 miles away in Denver, but of course, in any emergency, you can always call 911 and an ambulance will come to assist you.
Job Market and Average Salary in Evergreen
The median household income in Evergreen is around $129,445 per year, which is higher than the national median income of $70,784. Many residents of Evergreen making a livable salary are either business owners, work remotely, or choose to commute to Denver. The commute from Evergreen to Denver is approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.
For those who prefer to work closer to home, there are also job opportunities within the Evergreen community itself. Evergreen has a variety of small businesses, including retail stores, restaurants, and professional services, which provide some employment opportunities for locals.
While Evergreen may not offer the same range of job opportunities as a larger city like Denver, it does have a tight-knit community and a strong sense of local pride. Many residents are passionate about supporting local businesses and promoting economic growth within the community.
Comparison of Cost of Living in Evergreen to Other Cities in Colorado and the US
Compared to other cities in Colorado, Evergreen is generally more expensive, mostly attributed to the cost of housing. Additionally, Denver’s total sales tax is about 9.25%, and Evergreen’s total sales tax is at 4.4%. All of these factors could offset the higher home costs, along with the quality of life that isn’t found in larger cities.
However, it’s important to note that property taxes in Colorado are significantly lower than in other states. A great example is the property tax of a New Jersey home versus an Evergreen home. The property tax on a 1 million dollar house in Evergreen is around $5,000 a year, whereas in a similarly priced home in New Jersey, you’ll see an annual cost of around $22,600 in property taxes.
Conclusion
Understanding the cost of living in Evergreen, Colorado is essential for anyone considering moving to or living here. From housing prices to healthcare costs, transportation expenses, and grocery bills, the overall cost of living could play a significant role in determining the standard of living for its residents.
By carefully considering and budgeting for the various factors that contribute to the cost of living in Evergreen, you can make informed decisions about your financial well-being and lifestyle choices in this beautiful mountain community. Knowledge and awareness of the cost of living in Evergreen can help you plan ahead, set realistic expectations, and enjoy the benefits of living in this vibrant and scenic Colorado town.
