Colorado Faces a Population Shift as These Towns Lose Residents

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Colorado, known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, outdoor recreation, and rapidly growing cities like Denver and Colorado Springs, has seen a steady influx of residents in recent years. However, some smaller towns across the state are facing a different reality — a significant population decline.

The reasons behind this “Great Colorado Exodus” are tied to economic challenges, rising living costs, and a shift toward urbanization. Here, we explore five towns in Colorado that are losing residents rapidly and what’s causing this trend.

1. Pueblo

Pueblo, once a thriving industrial hub in southern Colorado, is now experiencing a slow but steady population decline. The town’s economy was traditionally based on steel production, mining, and manufacturing, but as these industries have faded, Pueblo has struggled to diversify its economy.

The city has faced challenges in attracting new businesses, and many younger residents have moved away to larger cities for better job opportunities. While Pueblo still offers affordable housing and access to outdoor activities, the lack of job growth and limited amenities compared to larger urban areas have contributed to its dwindling population.

2. Alamosa

Alamosa, located in the San Luis Valley, is known for its proximity to the Great Sand Dunes National Park and its agricultural roots. However, the town has been losing residents over the years due to a lack of economic diversification and limited job opportunities.

While agriculture plays a significant role in the local economy, it doesn’t provide enough jobs for the growing population. Additionally, many younger individuals are leaving to seek better-paying jobs and opportunities in larger cities like Denver or Boulder. With a relatively small tax base and limited infrastructure, Alamosa has struggled to attract new residents and businesses.

3. La Junta

La Junta, located in southeastern Colorado, has seen its population steadily decline over the past few decades. The town’s economy was once dependent on agriculture and railroads, but as these industries have declined, La Junta has struggled to find a new economic foundation. Many residents, particularly young people, have moved to larger cities with more job opportunities and a wider array of amenities.

The town’s small population base, aging infrastructure, and lack of modern amenities have further compounded its challenges. As a result, La Junta has found it increasingly difficult to retain or attract new residents.

4. Craig

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Craig, a small town in northwestern Colorado, has faced significant population decline due to the decline of the coal industry. Once a key center for coal mining and energy production, Craig has struggled since the industry began shrinking in recent years. The closure of the coal-fired power plants and the move toward cleaner energy sources have had a profound effect on the local economy.

While the town has made efforts to diversify its economy, it has been difficult to replace the high-paying jobs that were once abundant. As many families and workers leave to find better opportunities elsewhere, Craig’s population continues to shrink.

5. Cañon City

Cañon City, located near the Arkansas River in central Colorado, has also seen a steady decline in population. Historically, the town was known for its prisons and the nearby Royal Gorge, a popular tourist destination. However, as the prison industry has faced budget cuts and as tourism has failed to consistently draw visitors year-round, Cañon City has struggled to maintain its population.

The town’s economy has failed to diversify significantly, and many younger residents are moving to larger cities like Colorado Springs, where they can access better jobs, schools, and healthcare.

Why Are These Towns Losing Residents?

Several common factors are contributing to the population decline in these Colorado towns:

1. Economic Decline: Many of these towns were historically reliant on one or two industries, such as manufacturing, agriculture, or coal mining. As these industries have experienced significant decline, the towns have struggled to find new economic drivers. Without sufficient job opportunities or new industries to replace those lost, residents are increasingly seeking employment elsewhere.
2. Rural-to-Urban Migration: As urban centers like Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs continue to grow, more people are drawn to these cities for the job opportunities, amenities, and lifestyle they offer. The allure of city life — with its modern infrastructure, cultural offerings, and higher-paying jobs — is pulling people away from rural and smaller towns.
3. Rising Living Costs: While some of these towns are still relatively affordable compared to the rapidly appreciating housing markets of larger cities, the overall cost of living, especially in terms of healthcare and services, is rising. Young people, in particular, may find it more difficult to settle down and start families in smaller towns when compared to the economic opportunities available in larger cities.
4. Aging Population: Many of these towns have older populations with fewer younger residents staying or moving in. Without a younger workforce to support the economy, it becomes difficult to maintain local businesses and services. The aging demographic often results in a stagnant local economy and fewer people to fill jobs or volunteer in the community.
5. Limited Infrastructure and Services: Smaller towns like these often face challenges related to infrastructure, education, and healthcare services. Many residents are leaving for larger cities where there is better access to higher education institutions, healthcare facilities, and other essential services. These amenities are crucial in attracting new residents and retaining young people who want access to quality services.

What Can Be Done?

To combat this population decline, towns like Pueblo, Alamosa, La Junta, Craig, and Cañon City need to take a proactive approach to revitalization. Some strategies that could help include:

• Economic Diversification: Attracting new businesses, especially those related to technology, renewable energy, and other growing industries, could help create new job opportunities and stimulate economic growth.
• Improving Infrastructure: Investing in modern infrastructure, such as transportation, broadband internet, healthcare, and schools, would make these towns more attractive places to live for both families and young professionals.
• Revitalizing Main Streets: Revamping downtown areas, supporting local businesses, and improving the town’s aesthetics can bring life back to the community, drawing visitors and potential new residents.
• Focusing on Education and Workforce Development: Creating partnerships with local colleges and vocational schools to offer job training and educational opportunities can help develop a skilled workforce that is more attractive to businesses.

While the Great Colorado Exodus is a concerning issue for smaller towns, there is still hope for these communities. With targeted efforts to improve economic opportunities, infrastructure, and quality of life, towns like Pueblo, Alamosa, La Junta, Craig, and Cañon City have the potential for revitalization.

However, it will require a combined effort from local leadership, residents, and state policymakers to ensure these towns can recover and grow in a sustainable manner.