The Largest City in Colorado Now and in 2050

Denver, the Mile High City, is surrounded by the Colorado Rockies. From its perch, it serves as the state’s capital, and is currently its largest city. With a seamless blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure, it presents an iconic image of what Colorado can be. From its trendy eateries in the RiNo district to its world-class museums, Denver promises visitors and residents alike a rich cultural experience. However, its proximity to the great outdoors, including kayaking spots and hiking trails within the city limits, adds a unique dimension to its identity.

Denver’s rise as an urban hub has been meteoric. In fact, it’s the fastest-growing city in Colorado. Yet, this urban expansion comes with its set of challenges. These include overcrowding and infrastructure strains, not to mention a growing homeless population. Moreover, the city’s growth has been so rapid that it often appears to be in a perpetual state of construction.

Denver Today

Dominant and Emerging Industries

Denver’s industrial landscape is a mix of tradition and innovation. The city has strong roots in aerospace, renewable energy, and cleantech sectors. Additionally, the area has become a magnet for major distribution and e-commerce companies, such as IntelliSource and Ibotta.

Piles of Culture to Match the Mountain Snows

Set against a backdrop of the Rockies, Denver, the Mile High City (referring to altitude, of course) stands tall and proud, echoing the vast mountain ranges with its cultural peaks. Its neighborhoods brim with life. Each offer a distinct rhythm and sound. Maybe it’s the whir of bicycles, the splash of kayaks, or the clink of craft beer glasses. The artistic energy of RiNo, juxtaposed with the legacy of Capitol Hill, presents a city alive with diverse influences and a shared appreciation for nature.

Avalanche of Culture

But Denver’s charm goes beyond its natural setting. The city serves as a canvas painted with rich artistic strokes. Iconic landmarks such as the Red Rocks Amphitheatre and the Denver Performing Arts Complex stand testament to this. And the pulse? It’s distinctly artistic.

The heart of Denver’s art scene can be found in areas like the Golden Triangle Creative District. It’s home to eight museums and a beacon for art enthusiasts. Take, for instance, the Denver Art Museum. Here you can find a staggering collection of 70,000 art objects. They also store a significant American Indian art collection. And for those wanting a grassroots feel, the Art District on Santa Fe brims with over 60 galleries.

Then there’s the historic Brown Palace Hotel & Spa on 17th Street, echoing tales of times gone by. Families seeking adventure aren’t left wanting. The likes of Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park, Denver Museum of Nature & Science, and Denver Zoo promise a day of discovery and joy.

Micro-Brewery Madness

But perhaps what sets Denver apart is its spirited beer culture. With over 200 different beers churned out daily, the city’s love for brews is palpable. Establishments like Stranahan’s Colorado Whisky epitomize this fervor. Yet, amidst its bustling urban life and myriad offerings, Denver retains a laid-back charm. It’s casual vibe embraces both nature and culture.

Denver’s Current Population Dynamics

As of 2023, Denver proudly stands as Colorado’s most populous city, sheltering an estimated 699,288 residents. However, the metropolis has faced the rippling effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Its population has observed an annual decline of 0.86 percent from a previous count of 717,630 in the 2020 US Census, amounting to a 2.56 percent decrease. These figures mirror a broader trend observed in major cities like New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco, which too faced population dips between mid-2020 and mid-2021.

The nuances of Denver’s population dynamics during these challenging times are multifaceted. Notably, a temporary ebb in its growth was caused by the pandemic. The balance tilted with more people moving out than in. Yet, such declines have been cushioned by a net natural increase in the city, where births consistently outnumbered deaths.

The Counties of Colorado

Driving deeper into Colorado’s heartland, one discerns a mixed bag of population dynamics at play. While certain counties like Jefferson and Arapahoe have experienced net out-migration and populations lower than their 2020 counts, places like Douglas County and Weld County flourished. Their surge in population can be credited to new housing constructions and affordability. However, even as Denver’s overall figures tilt towards a decline, the housing market tells a story of anticipated resurgence. Despite the present slowdown, housing supply shortages and escalating prices in Denver underscore predictions that its population decline is transient.

As such, experts remain optimistic. They forecast that cities like Denver will soon reverse their population declines, propelled by a rebounding job market and opportunities. Furthermore, the evident strain on housing supplies, seen in the relentless demand outstripping supply, strengthens this optimism. The state demographer’s sentiment echoes this positive outlook for Colorado, banking on job prospects to catalyze growth. Yet, as promising as the future looks, challenges loom large. Attracting skilled workers and ensuring housing affordability in a fiercely competitive market remain pivotal concerns. Indeed, the stark reality of Denver’s ballooning homeless population, which saw an increase of around 32 percent from 2022 to 2023, illustrates in facts, figures, and tent encampments, the many housing challenges the city faces.

From the Mile-High City to the Springs: A Tale of Two Colorado Cities

As we journey southward from Denver, we arrive at another Colorado gem: Colorado Springs. Unlike Denver, which serves as a hub of commerce and culture, Colorado Springs offers a different flavor of urban life. Here, the emphasis is increasingly on sustainability and community resilience. They are a reflection of its unique local environment dominated by natural landmarks like Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods.

But Colorado Springs is far from static. By the year 2050, it is projected to surpass Denver as Colorado’s largest city. Further, it’s a city in flux. The challenges of urbanization, be it in Denver with its rapid population growth and infrastructure demands, or in Colorado Springs with its focus on sustainable and resilient urban planning, are complex but not insurmountable. Each city, while sharing the broad challenges that come with growth and modernization, has its own set of priorities, resources, and solutions.

In the following sections, we’ll explore how Colorado Springs is not only embracing its growth but doing so in a manner that serves as a roadmap for other cities striving for a sustainable and resilient future. With this broader understanding, let’s dive into the vision that Colorado Springs has for itself by the year 2050.

Summary Table of Current and Projected Population Totals for Denver and Colorado Springs

This table represents the projected demographic shift, with Colorado Springs expected to overtake Denver. The driving factors behind this demographic shift could be attributed to various economic and social factors as mentioned in the sources.

Data sources:

• https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/denver-co-population
• https://www.cobizmag.com/what-colorado-city-will-grow-fastest-by-2050/
• https://www.coloradopolitics.com/news/forecasts-show-colorado-springs-will-become-colorados-largest-city/article_69622eae-06d4-5df1-8102-1315e7507885.html
• https://www.populationu.com/cities/colorado-springs-co-population
• https://www.denverpost.com/2017/11/07/colorado-population-growth-fastest-regions/

Vision of Colorado Springs in 2050

Embracing Sustainability

By 2050, Colorado Springs aims to be a leader in clean energy, leveraging its current commitments such as SustainableCOS and WastelessCOS. Imagine a city where renewable energy isn’t the alternative but the norm. Rooftop solar panels could be as common as chimneys, and the concept of “waste” could be antiquated, thanks to circular economy models that find new life for old products.

The city’s PlanCOS and Smart Sustainability programs will likely evolve into more comprehensive plans that address not just environmental resilience, but also social and economic resilience.

Infrastructure of Tomorrow

Future mobility in Colorado Springs is not just about moving from point A to B; it’s about connecting lives. With initiatives like ConnectCOS, the city aims to seamlessly integrate public and private transport options, while a next-generation fiber network ensures that the digital divide is a thing of the past.

Housing, Commercial Spaces, and Land Use

Urban planners in Colorado Springs will likely focus on creating multi-use spaces that serve communities better. With commercial real estate already diversifying, by 2050, we can expect more co-working spaces, vertical farms, and maybe even drone ports.

Green Lungs and Smart Growth

Amidst the sprawl and urban clamor, Colorado Springs’ Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services department stands as a guardian to the city’s verdant heart. Yet, these pockets of green are more than just spots of tranquility or spaces for leisure. They transform into living laboratories, manifesting sustainable practices, and fostering community farming.

Echoing this sustainable vision, the city recently welcomed a new comprehensive development blueprint, PlanCOS. With a foresight recognizing the city’s anticipated growth, an influx of over 200,000 residents in the coming two decades, the plan charts a distinct course. Prioritizing infill and redevelopment, it seeks to breathe new life into the urban core. But the metamorphosis isn’t just physical; it’s ideological. The plan ardently promotes walkability, bike accessibility, and endorses sustainable transportation modes, integrating these values into future developments.

Gone are the days of unrestrained suburban sprawl. PlanCOS heralds a new dawn of concentrated growth, underpinned by intelligent planning. Its aim is two-fold: to reinvent existing neighborhoods and to infuse new ones with a balanced blend of residential, commercial, and recreational amenities. By spearheading such initiatives, Colorado Springs hopes to etch its legacy in the annals of urban development of rapid yet thoughtful growth.

The Demographic Forecast of Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, nestled at the base of the Front Range, is undergoing a demographic transformation as vibrant and varied as its natural surroundings. Key indicators suggest an evolution in age, population, and cultural diversity, painting a vivid portrait of a city in flux.

The Pulse of Population Growth

Colorado Springs, the second-largest city in Colorado, has consistently showcased impressive population growth. According to the 2022 Budget and Strategic Plan, the city’s estimated population stands at 506,646. This growth isn’t sporadic. Historical data from the 2000 census recorded 360,890 residents, marking a striking 69.44 percent rise since 1992. In 2010, it was home to 416,427 residents. By 2023, projections anticipate the city will be home to nearly 693,000 individuals. This trajectory underscores the city’s allure, drawing a steady influx of new residents year on year.

Age Distribution

The city basks in a youthful glow. The median age, which was 33.6 in 2000, matured slightly to 34.6 by 2020. This reveals a demographic with energy and potential. This relatively young populace, evenly split with a marginally higher female population (50.12 percent) than males (49.88 percent), is not only contributing to its economic dynamism but is also influencing its cultural makeup.

Racial and Ethnic Diversity

While Colorado Springs traditionally leaned towards a predominantly White demographic, with this group accounting for 68.7 percent of its populace in 2020, there’s a discernible shift towards greater diversity. Over the last two decades, the White population has seen a relative decrease from 80.7 percent in 2000. In contrast, the Hispanic and Black populations have witnessed growth, reaching 16.3 and 5.4 percents, respectively, by 2020.

Springing Forward

Beyond quantity, Colorado Springs is seeing a qualitative evolution. With the PlanCOS comprehensive plan, the city underscores a commitment to sustainability, walkability, and balanced growth. Shifting its focus from suburban expansion, Colorado Springs is now channeling its energies towards rejuvenating its urban core. This includes emphasizing infill, redevelopment, and a harmonious blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

The future of Colorado Springs, it seems, is one of smart growth, youthful energy, and increasing cultural diversity.

Economic Engines

So, what makes Colorado Springs the star of the coming mid-century? The city boasts a diversified economic base that includes key industries like healthcare, retail trade, professional and technical services, and accommodation and food services. Military installations alone constitute over 17 percent of all employment in the area. This diversification not only provides a cushion against economic downturns but also makes the city attractive for future growth and investment.

The Educational Landscape

Colorado Springs is a hub for education. It feature nine public school districts and an array of vocational schools, colleges, and universities. Impressively, 43.8 percent of residents aged 25 and older hold at least a bachelor’s degree, surpassing the national average of 33.1 percent. This educated workforce is an asset that promises to drive innovation and economic growth in the coming years.

Political and Cultural Shifts

Colorado Springs has traditionally been conservative. But there’s evidence of a shift towards more moderate politics, thanks in part to its diversifying population. An increasing number of unaffiliated voters are emerging, signaling possible changes in the city’s political landscape.

Millennial Magnet

In line with nationwide trends, the South and West regions of the US are experiencing the highest millennial growth. Millennials are often seen as a crucial demographic for future economic development. They hold higher levels of education. They’re more comfortable with technology. While Denver is the current go-to city for millennials, Colorado Springs seems well-positioned to attract this energetic and educated cohort, which bodes well for its future. (For those interested in the latest findings on this topic, Harvard’s Joint Center for housing Studies will hold a webcast on October 27. It’ll feature Hyojung Lee of Seoul National University to discuss a forthcoming article he co-authored.)

Challenges Ahead

Of course, growth comes with its set of challenges. The city is grappling with issues such as affordable housing, cultural diversity, and the need for further economic diversification. While specific plans for managing population growth were not outlined in the 2022 budget, the city’s diverse economic base and educational opportunities suggest it is well-prepared for the road ahead.

The Pulse of Urban Development

Downtown Colorado Springs has been a hotbed of development, with investments reaching over $2 billion in 2021. This development spans various sectors, from residential to commercial, further underlining the city’s appeal. However, there are challenges to contend with. They include the high cost of building materials and supply chain disruptions that have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Small businesses need sustained support to recover from the pandemic’s impact.

By painting a picture of a city in flux, these demographic and economic trends highlight how Colorado Springs is evolving. Whether it’s the burgeoning millennial population, the diversification of the economy, or the shifts in political landscapes, Colorado Springs in 2050 promises to be a city that has not only grown but also in complexity and character.

Colorado Springs and the Climate Imperative

Preservation through Recreation

In Colorado Springs, local parks aren’t just places for leisure. Under the guidance of The Nature Conservancy’s state initiatives, they’re evolving into biodiversity hotspots that align with wider conservation objectives.

Landscaping for Tomorrow

Given the pressing threats of climate change, the city is embracing landscaping that’s water-efficient and ecologically beneficial.

Investing in Climate Resilience

The Climate Resilience Challenge allocates significant funds for projects that prioritize both climate adaptation and mitigation, offering a holistic approach to environmental well-being.

Navigating the Future with PlanCOS

As Colorado Springs stands on the cusp of transformation, PlanCOS emerges as its compass, guiding the city’s journey into the future. This comprehensive strategy is more than just a document; it’s a reflection of the city’s aspirations, challenges, and solutions. From economic considerations to community involvement, from visionary ideals to practical planning, PlanCOS encapsulates a holistic perspective on growth. In the subsequent sections, we’ll delve deeper into its multifaceted approach. We’ll explore how Colorado Springs is preparing for change with foresight, inclusivity, and sustainability at its core.

Economic Insight

PlanCOS emphasizes grasping the financial ramifications of growth. This insight aims to foster sustainable land use and policy decisions, ensuring a forward-thinking, resilient future.

Community-driven Planning

Established after extensive community dialogue and endorsed by the Colorado Springs City Council in 2019, PlanCOS is the city’s blueprint for land use. The plan is founded on six major themes. They are: vibrant neighborhoods, unique places, thriving economy, strong connections, renowned culture, and majestic landscapes. Each is designed to accommodate growth while accentuating community assets.

The Vision Ahead

The plan dreams of a dynamic Colorado Springs where outdoor beauty, health, and recreation reign supreme. It endeavors to shape the city as a distinctive cultural center, harmoniously constructed around its natural milieu.

Holistic Planning

PlanCOS doesn’t act in isolation. It’s interwoven with various other tools, including land use regulations and capital improvement programs. The plan’s triumph relies on a blend of legislative, regulatory, and financial avenues.

Growth with Purpose

PlanCOS doesn’t overtly aspire to eclipse Denver in population. Rather, its emphasis on fiscal prudence, communal strengths, and eco-friendly design presents a thoughtful path to expansive growth.

Conclusion

As urban hubs become ubiquitous worldwide, Colorado Springs holds a crucial position. Currently standing as Colorado’s second-most populous city, it mirrors broader urbanization patterns. Moreover, while Denver holds the title of Colorado’s largest city, projections indicate that Colorado Springs is on track to surpass it by 2050.

In essence, Colorado Springs isn’t merely undergoing a transformation happening to it. Rather, the city is steering into its future with clarity and purpose. Embracing sustainability, civic engagement, and cutting-edge infrastructure, Colorado Springs is emerging as an exemplary beacon for urban evolution amidst global challenges like climate change and widespread urbanization.