University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (also known as UCCS and CU the Springs) has a long history in Colorado Springs. As it continues to grow, more students and faculty are searching for housing, ideally within a few miles of the University. The 5 surrounding neighborhoods all offer different amenities, atmosphere, and price points to support a growing college.
Cragmoor
The Cragmoor area (which includes neighborhoods like Cragmoor Heights) begins directly across the street from UCCS and stretches east towards Nevada Ave. Many homes in this neighborhood are in walking distance from the college, and a mix of rental properties, duplexes and single family homes. These moderately priced homes sell below the cities average sale price and many were built in the mid-50’s. Mature trees and wide streets plus easy access to plenty of amenities like University Village Shopping Center and restaurants. Plus, homes were appreciating around 13% in 2018 so owners were enjoying equity, whether the home was used as a rental for college students or a primary residence.
Eagle Rock
The Eagle Rock neighborhood was hidden and unknown for many years tucked away in the foothills against the college and Pulpit Rock. Access was limited and roads simply ended in the neighborhood. However, since the explosive expansion of the college, it’s now a busier area surrounded by new University buildings were there was previously only open space. In fact, a road paved in 2019 runs through the Eagle Rock neighborhood, now connecting the Ent Center for the Arts to the rest of the campus. Homes don’t often come up for sale in this area, and are typically above average home prices for the rest of Colorado Springs as lot sizes tend to be larger and more homes are custom built.
Pulpit Rock
Just North of the college surrounding Pulpit Rock Open Space, this neighborhood combines mountain views, access to recreation, easy access to Interstate 25 and a variety of living options. Condos and townhomes like Dublin Manor at Willow Bend line the edges with more affordable living, while larger homes up on the hill boast of nearly 360 degree views and natural surroundings.
University Park
If you’re looking for a central location and mountain views, you’ll be pleasantly surprised in this neighborhood. Built into the hills just above UCCS and Austin Bluffs Open Space, you’ll feel like you’re in a small mountain community. Home prices are above average for the Colorado Springs area and the higher up you get into University Park, home prices and lot sizes typically increase….but do do the mountain views! Probably the most likely neighborhood to find mountain lions, the University’s mascot.
Garden Ranch
Just off the N Academy corridor, close to restaurants, services, entertainment and shopping. Much of the Garden Ranch area are 70’s built homes, including ranch, bi-level and tri-level floor plans. Perhaps the best feature of this District 11 community is the proximity to open space and recreation in Palmer Park. Despite the convenient location to north Colorado Springs, it’s probably the furthest of the 5 from campus.
