South of Denver and just north of Colorado Springs lies the town of Monument. With a population of just over 8,000 residents, Monument is currently a small town. But with the area's steady growth, it might not stay that way for long. Many people move to the Denver/Colorado Springs area each year, and if you’re looking for a rural feel not too far from the big city, Monument might be perfect for you.
The actual town of Monument is 7 square miles. The major highway that goes north/south through Colorado goes through Monument, which makes it convenient for commuters. In fact, many people drive daily to Denver or Colorado Springs for work.
Monument also attracts people who work remotely or those that are retired. Families love raising their children in a slower-paced environment where there are tons of recreational activities plus excellent schools.
Here are 7 reasons that will make you seriously want to move to Monument, Colorado.
1. Location
The monument is located 23 miles north of Downtown Colorado Springs and 50 miles south of the Denver metropolitan area. As Interstate-25 winds its way south, it elevates a bit near Monument and the Palmer Divide. This gives it amazing views and distinct weather patterns.
On the east side of the town is the Black Forest. On the west side are the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and Pike National Forest. On the north side are Bald Mountain, True Mountain, and Spruce Mountain. All of these offer endless recreational activities.
The New Santa Fe Trail runs through the center of town and follows parts of abandoned railroad lines. This is a 17-mile trail that runs from Palmer Lake Recreation Area down to the US Air Force Academy in northern Colorado Springs. Four trailheads are located in Monument making it popular among bikers and hikers.
Living in Monument does mean that you’ll get to hear and trains pass through the area periodically, as there are active lines running through town.
2. Climate
If you’re a fan of the four seasons, you’ll love living in Monument. Because of its higher elevation, it is cooler in the summer. For the same reasons, there is more intense weather, including snow that stays on the ground into the Spring months. Colorado also has over 300 sunny days per year and thus, Monument is a great place to live if you love the outdoors.
3. Community
Living in Monument, CO means that you are moving to one of the up-and-coming areas of Colorado. Because of its proximity to two major cities and the mountains, it is an undiscovered gem. There’s plenty of room for growth between Castle Rock and Colorado Springs with a lot of open space in which to build. Colorado is very popular and Colorado Springs will continue to expand to the north and Denver will continue to expand to the south. There is a possibility that they will meet in the middle if the growth continues.
But currently, the town is small and there is a close-knit feel among the residents.
The monument is in El Paso County and has a Board of Trustees. Government services are handled through the county or the city of Colorado Springs.
4. Homes
Like many places in Colorado, home prices are on the rise. Homes near the foothills which have at least one-half an acre. Homes on the lower end of the spectrum may need some updating.
One of the best neighborhoods in Monument, CO is Sanctuary Pointe, a new home development southeast of the historic downtown area. These homes have heavily treed lots and one-of-a-kind homes. There are ranch and two-story floor plans ranging from 2500 to over 5000 square feet. There are green spaces and a park inside the community.
Other neighborhoods to check out include Woodmoor, Promontory Pointe, Forest Lakes, Kings Deer, and Jackson Creek. Many of these will have manicured lawns and homes, country club access, or are close to shopping areas and medical facilities. Wagons West is a prominent townhome community.
If you like homes with large lots, head to the west into the foothills. Here, you’ll find privacy on winding mountain roads closer to nature and wildlife.
5. Top Schools
The public school system is managed by the Lewis-Palmer School District 38, a highly regarded district in the state. There are five elementary schools - Lewis-Palmer, Palmer Lake, Kilmer, Prairie Winds, and Bear Creek. These serve Monument and the Palmer Lake area. Lewis-Palmer Middle School serves both communities. There are two high schools - Lewis-Palmer is the closest to Monument.
Monument Academy is a charter school serving grades K through 8.
Homeschooling is also a popular option in this area, with many support groups available.
6. Historic Downtown Area
Downtown Monument has historic buildings that have been revitalized. There are streets with wooden sidewalks where you can find a Victorian tea house, art galleries, gift shops, and antique stores.
Two notable places to eat are The Coffee Cup Cafe for breakfast and La Casa Fiesta for lunch or dinner. Also, check out Lolly’s Ice Cream for a touch of dessert. There is public parking on the west side of town - from there walk a couple of blocks to eateries and shops. In the summer, come down to the farmer’s market for fresh produce and artisan gifts.
7. Things to Do in Monument, CO
Monument Rock is where the town got its name. The formation is on the west side of town and one can hike up to the rock.
Monument Lake is just west of town. It’s a 30-acre reservoir with fishing, canoeing, paddleboarding, and more. It’s popular in both summer and winter.
Dirty Woman Creek Park is along Monument Creek and is a great place for a picnic. There are also baseball and softball fields, a horseshoe pit, and BBQ grills.
Moving to Monument, CO
Monument, CO, is a hidden gem near two major metropolitan areas. Here, you will find small-town appeal and a sense of community. If you’re looking for a home near the mountains with great access to metropolitan areas, definitely check out Monument.
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