đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Colorado Springs and Little Rock
Head-to-Head Analysis
Colorado Springs vs Little Rock
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Colorado Springs | Little Rock |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $83,215 | $59,762 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.9% | 4.1% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $460,900 | $248,750 |
| Price per SqFt | $null | $139 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,408 | $950 |
| Housing Cost Index | 123.2 | 67.3 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 94.3 | 92.1 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $2.26 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 456.0 | 1234.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 44.8% | 43.1% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 20 | 40 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Colorado Springs vs. Little Rock: The Ultimate Relocation Showdown
So, you're standing at a crossroads. One path leads to the shadow of Pikes Peak, where the air is thin and the mountains are massive. The other winds down to the banks of the Arkansas River, where Southern charm meets a gritty, historic core. You’re weighing Colorado Springs against Little Rock.
This isn't just about picking a new zip code; it's about picking a new life. One is an outdoor mecca with a high-altitude lifestyle, the other is an affordable Southern hub with a soul all its own. As your relocation expert, I'm not just reading you the data. I'm going to tell you how it feels to live in each, where your paycheck goes further, and which city is the right fit for your stage of life.
Let’s settle this.
The Vibe Check: Mountain Majesty vs. River City Soul
Colorado Springs is your friend who’s always training for a marathon. It’s active, aspirational, and breathtakingly beautiful. The vibe is "mountain town meets military town." You’ll feel the influence of the U.S. Air Force Academy and the five military bases in the area; it’s patriotic, family-oriented, and clean. The culture revolves around the outdoors—hiking, biking, climbing, and skiing are part of the social fabric. It’s ideal for the outdoorsy family, the active retiree, or the young professional who wants adventure on the weekends without sacrificing city amenities.
Little Rock is the friend who knows the best hole-in-the-wall restaurant and can tell you the history of the city’s architecture. It’s laid-back, deeply historic, and unpretentious. The pace is slower, the people are friendly in that classic Southern way, and the cost of living is a breath of fresh air compared to most U.S. metros. It’s a city of neighborhoods with strong identities, from the trendy Hillcrest to the historic Quapaw Quarter. This is the spot for the budget-conscious family, the arts and culture lover, or the young professional looking for an affordable place to put down roots without the cutthroat competition of bigger cities.
The Takeaway: If you crave elevation, epic landscapes, and an adrenaline-fueled lifestyle, Colorado Springs is calling your name. If you prefer river walks, rich history, and a more grounded, affordable day-to-day, Little Rock might be your perfect fit.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Feel Like a Million Bucks?
This is where the rubber meets the road. Let’s talk cold, hard cash and what it actually buys you.
The Sticker Shock: There’s no sugarcoating it—Colorado Springs is significantly more expensive than Little Rock. The Housing Index tells the story: 123.2 for Springs vs. 67.3 for Little Rock (where 100 is the national average). That means housing in Colorado Springs is 23% more expensive than the U.S. average, while in Little Rock, it’s 33% cheaper.
Let’s break it down.
Cost of Living Snapshot (Monthly Estimates)
| Category | Colorado Springs | Little Rock | The Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR) | $1,408 | $950 | 48% Higher in CO |
| Utilities | ~$185 | ~$210 | Slightly more in AR (summer AC) |
| Groceries | ~$350 | ~$320 | Slightly more in CO |
| Median Home Price | $460,900 | $248,750 | 85% Higher in CO |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
Let’s run a scenario. You earn a $100,000 salary.
- In Colorado Springs: Your median income ($83,215) is already above the city's average, so you're doing well. But your biggest expense—housing—will devour a massive chunk. A $460,900 home, even with a 20% down payment, comes with a hefty mortgage. Your $100k will feel respectable, but you won't be living lavishly. The state income tax is 4.4%, which adds to the pressure.
- In Little Rock: With a $100,000 salary, you are a king or queen. The median income ($59,762) is much lower, so your money grants you a significantly higher standard of living. That $248,750 median home price is not just attainable; it’s potentially a stretch for a single-family home. Arkansas has a progressive income tax, but the top rate (5.9%) only kicks in at $40,000 for singles. Your purchasing power here is immense.
The Verdict on Dollars:
For pure purchasing power and financial comfort, Little Rock wins by a landslide. You get more house, more space, and more disposable income for your dollar. Colorado Springs is a premium product with a premium price tag.
đź’° Dollar Power Winner: Little Rock
Your paycheck goes farther, your housing costs are dramatically lower, and you can afford a lifestyle in Little Rock that might be out of reach in Colorado Springs on the same salary.
The Housing Market: To Buy or to Rent?
Colorado Springs: A Seller's Paradise (Mostly)
The housing market here is competitive. With a population nearing half a million and limited buildable land in the desirable mountain corridors, demand is fierce. The median home price of $460,900 is a moving target; desirable neighborhoods can be much higher. Renting is common, but the $1,408 average for a 1BR is a steep entry point. If you’re buying, be prepared for bidding wars and potential compromises on location or size. It’s a seller’s market, heavily influenced by the influx of remote workers and military relocations.
Little Rock: A Buyer's Playground (Comparatively)
Here, the market is far more accessible. With a median home price of $248,750, homeownership is within reach for many. The city is more spread out, with ample space for new development. While certain historic or trendy neighborhoods can be competitive, overall, the market is more balanced. Renting is a fantastic, affordable option, with a median 1BR rent of just $950. You have more room to negotiate and more inventory to choose from. It’s closer to a balanced market, giving buyers more leverage.
The Takeaway: If you’re a buyer, Little Rock offers far more bang for your buck and less stress. If you’re renting, Little Rock’s affordability is a game-changer. Colorado Springs’ market requires a bigger budget and more patience.
🏡 Housing Market Winner: Little Rock
For both buyers and renters, Little Rock provides a much more accessible and less cutthroat housing landscape.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life Factors
This is where personal preference reigns supreme.
Traffic & Commute:
- Colorado Springs: Traffic is a growing pain. The I-25 corridor is the main artery, and rush hour can be a slog, especially with military traffic. Commutes are generally shorter than in Denver, but congestion is real and worsening.
- Little Rock: Traffic is minimal. The city is built on a grid, and while there are bottlenecks (like the I-30/I-430 interchange), commutes are typically easy and stress-free. You can get almost anywhere in 20-25 minutes.
Weather: A Tale of Extremes
- Colorado Springs: 36.0°F is the average low in January, but that’s not the whole story. You get 300+ days of sunshine, low humidity, and dramatic seasons. However, be prepared for rapid changes, significant snowfall, and the challenges of altitude (dryness, thinner air). It’s a "dry cold" that many find more tolerable than humid winters.
- Little Rock: 57.0°F is the average low in January, but the summers are the real story. Expect high humidity and temperatures regularly hitting 90°F+ from June to August. Winters are mild and often damp. If you hate humidity, Little Rock’s summers will be a dealbreaker.
Crime & Safety: A Stark Contrast
We have to be honest here—this is a major differentiator.
- Violent Crime Rate (per 100k):
- Colorado Springs: 456.0
- Little Rock: 1,234.0
The data is clear. Colorado Springs has a violent crime rate that, while higher than the national average (387.8), is less than half of Little Rock’s. Little Rock struggles with significant crime challenges, and this is a critical factor for families and individuals prioritizing safety. This is a non-negotiable point for many.
The Takeaway: If easy commutes and mild winters are your priority, Little Rock wins. If you hate humidity and want more sunshine, Colorado Springs is better. But if safety is your top concern, the data overwhelmingly points to Colorado Springs.
⚖️ Quality of Life Winner: Colorado Springs
While Little Rock has easier traffic, Colorado Springs' significantly lower crime rate and more pleasant (for many) dry climate give it the edge for overall quality of life, especially for families.
The Final Verdict: Which City Wins for YOU?
After crunching the numbers and feeling the vibes, here’s my expert breakdown.
Winner for Families: Colorado Springs
- Why: The combination of lower crime, excellent outdoor access for family activities, strong public schools (especially in the suburbs), and a family-friendly community vibe outweighs the higher cost of living. The safety data alone is a powerful factor for parents.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Little Rock
- Why: The affordability is unbeatable. You can live alone in a nice apartment for under $1,000, save money aggressively, and still enjoy a vibrant arts scene, great food, and a social life without the financial pressure. It’s a fantastic place to build a financial foundation.
Winner for Retirees: It’s a Toss-Up (The "Active vs. Comfort" Split)
- For the Active Retiree: Colorado Springs. If you want to hike, bike, and explore the mountains in your golden years, the active community and stunning scenery are perfect. Just be prepared for the cost and altitude.
- For the Comfort-Seeking Retiree: Little Rock. If you prioritize affordability, mild winters, and easy living, Little Rock is a dream. Your retirement savings will stretch much, much further here.
Final Pros & Cons Breakdown
Colorado Springs
âś… Pros:
- Unbeatable Access to Nature: You live in a postcard.
- Lower Crime Rate: Statistically safer than Little Rock.
- 300+ Days of Sunshine & Low Humidity: Great for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Strong Economy & Job Market: Driven by military, tech, and aerospace.
- Family-Friendly Vibe: Excellent for raising kids.
❌ Cons:
- High Cost of Living: Especially housing and rent.
- Competitive Housing Market: Hard to find a home, hard to get a deal.
- Altitude & Dry Air: Can be tough to adjust to.
- Traffic Congestion: Growing problem on the I-25 corridor.
- Vibrant but Limited "City" Feel: It’s more of a large suburb with amazing views.
Little Rock
âś… Pros:
- Extremely Affordable: Low rent, low home prices, high purchasing power.
- Easy Commutes & Minimal Traffic: Stress-free daily life.
- Rich History & Culture: Great museums, architecture, and Southern charm.
- Friendly, Laid-Back Atmosphere: Genuine Southern hospitality.
- Central Location: Easy access to the Ozarks, Hot Springs, and Memphis.
❌ Cons:
- High Violent Crime Rate: A serious and undeniable concern.
- Oppressive Summer Humidity: Can be brutal for 3-4 months.
- Less Robust Job Market: Fewer high-paying industries outside of government/healthcare.
- Fewer Outdoor Adventure Options: Compared to Colorado’s mountains.
- Can Feel "Small": Limited nightlife and cultural options for some.
The Bottom Line: Choose Colorado Springs if you’re willing to pay a premium for safety, sunshine, and world-class outdoor access. Choose Little Rock if you’re on a budget, don’t mind the humidity, and want an affordable, friendly city with a lot of heart. Your perfect match depends on what you value—and what you’re willing to pay for it.
Planning a Move?
Use our AI-powered calculator to estimate your expenses from Colorado Springs to Little Rock.