Moving to Loveland

Are you contemplating a move to Colorado's Sweetheart City, Loveland? You're in luck! This charming city nestled against the majestic Rocky Mountains provides an unparalleled quality of life. Whether you're drawn to its humming arts scene, the thriving local businesses, or the stunning outdoor recreational opportunities, this comprehensive Loveland relocation guide would be your ideal partner. We're about to embark on an exciting journey together, exploring everything you need to know about relocating to Loveland, CO. So, fasten your seatbelts, it's time to kick-start this exciting adventure to your possibly new home town!

Moving to Loveland, CO landscape image

What to Know Before Moving to Loveland

1. The Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park

First off, if you're a fan of the great outdoors, brace yourself. Loveland, Colorado, quite literally has it all: craggy mountain ranges (of course), expansive prairies, gleaming lakes, and stunning trails. Notably, Loveland is often hailed as the 'Gateway to the Rocky Mountain National Park,' with easy access to some of the country's most breathtaking natural wonders.

2. The Land of Love

This quirky city is also known as "The Sweetheart City". Not only is that incredibly charming, but the city actually lives up to it! Every February, Loveland turns into a hotspot for lovers all over the world. Why, you ask? Well, have you heard of the Loveland Valentine Remailing Program? It's a place where thousands of love letters are sent to be stamped with a poetic verse before they are sent off to their final destination. How sweet is that?!

3. Bronze Mecca

The city of Loveland isn't just known for its nature and its love--it's also quite famous for its local artists! Recognized as the fine arts and sculpture capital of Colorado--and some might argue, the USA--Loveland hosts an international sculpture show every August. Furthermore, the city houses a whopping 29 foundries and galleries where you can find stunning works of art.

4. Beer Lover's Paradise

Did you know Colorado has the most microbreweries per capita in the US? And Loveland is no exception. If you consider yourself a beer enthusiast or simply love sipping a pint, Loveland will not disappoint. This city is home to a growing number of craft breweries, offering tastings, tours, and even beer-pairing dinners. Time to say cheers to that!

5. Affordability

Compared to many parts of Colorado, especially the Denver area, Loveland is relatively affordable. The housing costs are lower, with a variety of options from townhomes to sprawling country properties. So whether you're a retiree looking to downsize, a young professional hunting for a starter home, or a family seeking room to grow, Loveland offers both value and variety.

6. Dress in Layers

Colorado weather can be a bit unpredictably enjoyable. One minute, it can be sunny and the next it can be snowing. Casual, practicality, and layer-able is the way to go when it comes to wardrobe selection in Loveland. We promise, you'll appreciate the flexibility in your clothing when you're witnessing four seasons in a day!

In conclusion, Loveland is a treasure trove of unique experiences, landscapes, and communities. The blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and small-town charm has created a city that's not only exciting to visit, but wonderful to live in. So, as a potential future resident or a curious traveler, we hope this guide has been helpful on your journey to The Sweetheart City!

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Pros and Cons of Living in Loveland

Pros of Living in Loveland

Outdoor Recreation Availability

Loveland offers a multitude of outdoor activities whether it's hiking, biking or fishing at Boyd Lake State Park. With stunning mountain views it makes for a relaxing environment perfect for anyone with a love of the outdoors.

Artistic Vibe

The city is often recognized as an artists' community, with numerous public artworks scattered throughout Loveland and programs like Art in Public Places, making the city an engaging and inspiring place for artists and art enthusiasts alike.

Great Educational Opportunities

Loveland offers a variety of quality educational choices for families with children. With access to several good schools, both public and private, as well as opportunities for higher education, the city is highly appreciated for its focus on educational development.

Friendly Community

The people in Loveland are known to be friendly and nice, making it a warm and welcoming environment to live in. This sense of camaraderie adds to the quality of life in this city.

Good Quality of Life

Loveland residents generally enjoy a high quality of life. With its clean environment, low crime rate and excellent public services - including libraries, parks, and recreation centers - Loveland fosters a healthy, safe, and vibrant lifestyle.

Cons of Living in Loveland

Higher Cost of Living

While Loveland offers many advantages, the cost of living is generally higher than the national average. Expenses such as groceries, healthcare, and especially housing can be quite steep when compared to other cities.

Winter Weather

Winters in Loveland can be harsh and cold with a significant amount of snowfall. This can cause driving difficulties and may not be suitable for those who are not accustomed to heavy winter conditions.

Limited Nightlife

If you're a fan of vibrant nightlife, Loveland might not be the best choice for you. While there are some bars and restaurants, the city tends to be more quiet and family-oriented with limited nightlife activities.

Lack of Diversity

While Loveland is home to a welcoming community, it lacks a bit in terms of cultural diversity compared with larger cities. If you're seeking a multicultural environment, this might be something to consider.

Increased Traffic

With the growth of the population in recent years, traffic congestion in Loveland has increased. Particularly during peak hours, navigating around the city can become rather challenging.

Modern day picture of Loveland, CO highlighting pros and cons of living in Loveland, CO

Is Loveland a Good Place to Live?


Loveland, CO is a great place to live because of its small-town charm, art culture, and stunning mountain views. While being a part of a supportive community, you also get to enjoy its outdoor recreational activities and a vibrant downtown. The excellent school system, safety, and affordability make Loveland, CO a home sweet home!


What Is Loveland Famous For?

Valentine Re-Mailing Program

Loveland is the sweetheart of Colorado thanks to its famous Valentine Re-Mailing Program. Since 1945, people from across the globe have been sending their love letters to Loveland City just to be stamped with a postmark from the sweetest city around before reaching their final destination.

Sculpture in the Park

Loveland solidifies its reputation as an artists' haven with its annual Sculpture in the Park event. The event showcases exceptional works from artists all over, turning the city into an open-air museum, and making it one of the largest outdoor juried sculpture shows in America.

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities

With easy access to Rocky Mountain National Park and numerous local parks, Loveland is a prime location for outdoor adventure. From picturesque hiking trails that vary in difficulty, to fishing in serene lakes, there's something for every nature fan!

Art and Cultural Scene

With a bustling arts scene and thriving cultural institutions, Loveland definitely has more to offer than just enchanting landscapes. It's home to dedicated artistic communities and the historic Rialto Theater Center, making it a hub for creativity and culture.

Capital building of Loveland, CO in artistic rendering

Overview of Tax Rates

Property Tax

As of 2023, the property tax rate in Loveland, CO, is around 0.590%. This rate is considerably lower compared to the national average property tax rate in the United States, which is approximately 1.07%.

Sales Tax

The sales tax in Loveland as of 2023 is at 7.3%, which is slightly above the average US rate of around 7.12%. However, it remains competitive when compared to other Colorado cities of similar size.

Income Tax

Loveland, CO, residents are subjected to the statewide Colorado flat income tax rate of 4.63% in 2023. When compared to the broader US, this is relatively low as the average state level income tax rate across the nation is closer to 6%.

Housing Market

Loveland, CO's housing market offers a unique blend of affordable and mid-range properties. The median home value is approximately $400,000, slightly above the national average, reflecting the high quality of life in the area. For renters, the median monthly cost is around $1,600, competitive with many U.S. metro areas. The market heavily favors sellers due to rapid population growth and low inventory. Buyers and renters alike will find a healthy mix of options from compact condos to sprawling single-family homes. A robust economy and picturesque mountain views make Loveland a desirable and rewarding choice for prospective residents.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Loveland, CO is proven to be slightly higher than the national average. Although more affordable than some other Colorado cities, Loveland's cost of living index is reported to be around 112.5, as opposed to the national index of 100. Essential expenses such as housing, utilities, and groceries tend to be above the national average. Despite this, Loveland can be an attractive option for its thriving job market and high quality of life. Comparison highlights that it is critical to evaluate both the expenses and socio-economic benefits when considering the cost of living in a city.

Weather & Natural Disasters

Loveland, CO boasts a semi-arid, continental climate characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot with temperatures often hitting the mid-80s, but are tempered by cool nights, thanks to its high elevation. Winters are cold, but milder than many expect due to the city's distance from the Rockies, typically seeing temperatures ranging from high 40s to low 20s. As part of the Front Range Urban Corridor, Loveland does witness its fair share of snow, averaging about 54 inches per year.Major natural disasters that affect the area include wildfires during hot, dry summers and occasional severe snowstorms in winter. Floods can also be of concern, most notably the Big Thompson River flood of 1976. Despite these, Loveland's captivating natural beauty and outdoorsy lifestyle make it a popular destination for both visitors and locals alike.

Typical weather in Loveland, CO

Economy & Job Market

* Healthcare

* Manufacturing

* Retail Trade

* Professional, Scientific and Technical Services

* Education Services

Loveland, Colorado, fondly known as 'Sweetheart City', has a dynamic economy that warmly embraces both the old and the new. Historically, Loveland was prominent in agriculture, thanks to its fertile lands well-suited for sugar beets and sour cherries. As time passed, the city diversified its economic wings and today, it soars high with industries like healthcare, manufacturing, retail trade, technical services and education leading the flight. The city houses large firms such as Hach Company and sculpting industries like Art Castings of Colorado and Loveland Sculpture Works. As the winds of technology blew across the city, more sectors like IT, professional, scientific and technical services have sprouted and swiftly grown over the years.

If you've got your eyes set on Sweetheart City, and are keen on landing a job after the move, there're few things you should know. First, your chances of being kissed by the employment fairy are pretty good, with unemployment rates typically below the national average. Secondly, the city's job market isn't limited to one dominating industry. For instance, if you're in healthcare, you can find opportunities in large medical centers like Medical Center of the Rockies. If retail trade tickles your fancy, the city's vibrant shopping scene, with places like the Promenade Shops at Centerra, awaits you. For those with a knack for technology, the growing scene of professional, scientific and technical services beckons you to innovate and thrive. So, brace yourself for an exciting job hunt in this dynamic economy!

Traffic and Transportation

Ready to get from A to B in beautiful Loveland, CO? The average commute time is a breezy 23 minutes - that's quicker than deciding on your coffee order at The Coffee Tree! Looking for public transportation? You're perfectly covered. The COLT (City of Loveland Transit) will gallop you around the city, with service Monday to Friday. There's also Ride Free Loveland for seniors, and good news for students: COLT is free with your school ID! Need to go beyond Loveland? The Denver International Airport is less than an hour's drive away. So, whether you're commuting to work, taking the kids to school, or jetting off to faraway places, Loveland's got wheels (and wings!). Let's buckle up and enjoy the ride, folks!

What is the traffic like in Loveland, CO?

Best Neighborhoods in Loveland

1. Historic Downtown

Whoever said "history is boring" clearly hasn't explored Loveland's Historic Downtown! This vibrant neighborhood is brimming with character with its proud historic buildings, offering a charming blend of past and present. It's a cultural hub with a high concentration of art galleries, studios, and sculpture parks. To top it off, it hosts numerous annual events, from corn roast festivals to winter holiday celebrations. Foodies, rejoice! A variety of delicious cuisines await in stellar dining spots, while boutique-loving shoppers will appreciate the unique shops lining the streets. The neighborhood is also quite walkable - so go ahead, stroll around, soak in the vibe, and have your own "oh, I love this place" moment!

2. Mariana Butte

Welcome to Mariana Butte - a place where you can casually look out your window and be greeted by panoramic views of nature's masterpieces. Cuddled against the foothills, this neighborhood offers a stellar quality of life for outdoor enthusiasts with its hiking trails, golf course, and proximity to the Big Thompson River. If you're dreaming of a peaceful neighborhood that cherishes the wonders of nature while still being a short drive away from Downtown Loveland, Mariana Butte might just be your perfect match.

3. Boyd Lake

There's something magical about living near a water body, and the Boyd Lake neighborhood brings this magic to life. Residents have privileged access to Boyd Lake State Park, which is perfect for water activities such as boating, fishing, and even waterskiing. Apart from this, the neighborhood houses plenty of recreational areas and parks. While there are many family-friendly assets to this neighborhood, it also offers vibrant nightlife options for the young and young-at-heart. Living in Boyd Lake means enjoying the best of both worlds - phenomenal recreation right at your doorstep and your typical urban needs just a stone's throw away.

4. Eisenhower

Do you like staying central to all the action? If so, Eisenhower neighborhood sits nicely in the heart of Loveland, offering residents close proximity to nearly everything. Shopping centers, top-rated schools, medical facilities, beautiful parks -- you name it, Eisenhower probably has it. This neighborhood displays a marvelous balance between residential and commercial, promising an urban lifestyle peppered with suburban serenity. Swing by Centennial Park in your spare time, or satisfy your cultural cravings at the historic Rialto Theater Center - in Eisenhower, you're right in the thick of it all.

5. Alford Meadows

Last, but certainly not least, we give you Alford Meadows, a dreamy residential neighborhood. It's particularly appealing to those seeking a family-friendly, tight-knit community. Its well-planned walking trails, adequate playgrounds, and considerable open spaces make it a wonderland for the little ones while ensuring adults can also immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Plus, with its welcoming, laid-back atmosphere, it's easier than ever to make lasting connections with lovely neighbors. If you're looking for a place that radiates homely vibes yet keeps you close to Loveland's key areas, Alford Meadows is a place you should seriously consider.

Each neighborhood in Loveland, CO is unique with its own personality, charm, and distinctive vibes. Whether you are drawn to the artistic allure of Historic Downtown, the peaceful outdoor life in Mariana Butte, the water-side beauty of Boyd Lake, the central connectivity of Eisenhower, or the homely serenity of Alford Meadows - Loveland stretches out its warm, welcoming arms to make you feel right at home in this delightful city. Happy neighborhood hunting!

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Things to Do

Bound by rich culture, stunning landscapes, and a series of fabulously fun activities, Loveland, Colorado, is a city that offers something unique for everyone. From craft breweries to open-air art studios, this city will make you fall in love time and time again. So, if you are about to move to this charming city, here are seven top things you got to do in Loveland!

1. Explore the Chapman Reservoir

If you love outdoor activities, the Chapman Reservoir located in the Boyd Lake State Park is a must-visit. From boating, fishing, and skiing to swimming and picnicking, fun activities are unending. Find serenity, enjoy the picturesque views, or have a picnic- it's your call!

2. Art, Art and More Art at Benson Sculpture Garden

Renowned for its world-class outdoor sculpture collection, Benson Sculpture Garden is truly a gem of Loveland. With over 160 pieces of sculpture woven through beautifully landscaped pathways, discovering this magical oasis of artistic prowess is like treasure hunting!

3. Craft Beer Tasting at Loveland's Breweries

With an array of local breweries, Loveland is a paradise for craft beer lovers. Breweries like Loveland Aleworks and Big Beaver Brewing Co. not only offer unique craft brews but also host live music and food truck pop-ups. Book yourself on a brewery tour and hop through each, tasting as you go.

4. Deviate the Beaten Path at the Devil's Backbone Open Space

If you are looking for an offbeat experience, head to the Devil's Backbone Open Space. Famous for its distinctive jagged rock formations, this place offers thrilling hiking and biking trails and thrilling wildlife photography opportunities.

5. Uncover the City's Past at Loveland Museum

A visit to the Loveland Museum will awaken the history buff in you. The museum boasts interesting galleries showcasing local art, history, and culture. And the best part - it's free to enter on Fridays!

6. Bucket of Berries at Berry Patch Farm

If you wish to do something unique, visit Berry Patch Farm and pick your own organic fruits. From strawberries, raspberries to pumpkins and apples, you can pick them fresh, enjoying the crisp air and beautiful landscapes surrounding the farm.

7. Sculpture-Inspired Souvenir Shopping

What's better than a souvenir to remember Loveland? You guessed it, a sculpture-inspired one! As a nod to the city's rich sculpture history, many local souvenir shops sell miniature replicas of the famous sculptures dotted around the city. They make perfect mementos or gifts!

So there you go! Your beautiful journey in Loveland awaits you, wrapped with art, history, nature, and some unexpected adventures. Every bit of this city speaks of its vibrant culture and spirit, promising you a life full of exciting endeavors. So, welcome to Loveland, and let the adventure begin!

Things to do in Loveland, CO?

Find Movers for Your Loveland Relocation

Excited about your upcoming move to Loveland, CO? Make the transition smoother with the assistance of Great Guys Moving. We streamline the process by connecting you with top-notch, affordable moving companies that suit your unique needs. Save time, energy, and money by leverage our extensive network of licensed and insured movers. Ready to simplify your relocation and get settled in your new Loveland home? Don't delay! Request a free, no-obligation moving quote from Great Guys Moving today.

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