1. Boulder
Coming in at #5 on Livability's Best Places to Live list is beautiful Boulder and its "pristine natural surroundings, strong farm-to-table restaurant scene, and dynamic arts and cultural attractions." While we agree with all of the above, we must also mention the city's equally close proximity to both Denver and the Rocky Mountains, as well as the stellar shopping scene. (We love you, Pearl Street Mall!)
2. Fort Collins
Not only is Fort Collins home to Colorado State University, a quirky festival scene, and nearly 150,000 residents, it is also home to the #13 spot on Livability's list. The reason for this Top 20 spot? The site notes "thriving microbreweries to its mountain views and hiking trails, Fort Collins has an enticing assortment of amenities that draw talented workers to the high-tech companies located here."
3. Longmont
Livability seems to love the Front Range--and who can blame them? Listed at #23 is the City of Longmont, which "offers not only easy access to spectacular hiking and mountain adventures but a thriving arts scene, great schools, affordable housing options, and quality health care." Our favorite aspect of this 90,000 resident town? The charming and historic downtown area (pictured).
4. Littleton
One spot down from Longmont (at #24) is the Denver suburb of Littleton. What do we love most about Littleton? Why, Roxborough State Park and Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield, of course. What does Livability love? How "(n)early each week, residents can choose between art walks, concerts and festivals, including Western Welcome Week, an annual event that began in the late 1920s."
5. Lakewood
Next on the list is Lakewood, which went above and beyond to earn its spot at #26. With its variety of boutique and big-store shopping, as well as its dreamy mountain-side location, we couldn't adore this city anymore. Livability also notes the city's strong schools and access to outdoor recreation.
6. Loveland
"What’s not to love about Loveland?" Sorry, couldn’t resist. But all kidding aside, this city--at the base of the Rocky Mountains--provides residents with quality health care, a strong economy and lots of things to do." We "love" your analysis, Livability, and must also note the lower home prices of this #41 choice.
7. Lafayette
This view alone could have earned Lafayette its #44 ranking... but Livability went on to note how "(q)uality health-care facilities, varied housing options, and a politically and socially active population make Lafayette a great place to live."
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