Neighborhood Spotlight: Aspen, CO

Nestled in a remote area of the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains and the Elk Mountains, Aspen, Colorado, is one of the most upscale enclaves in the United States. Ski resorts and an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities attract tourists to the city year-round, and it’s a very popular place for the well-to-do to own a second or third home.

Aspen at a glance

Aspen is the county seat of Pitkin County in Colorado. It has a current population of about 7,000 people. Named after the abundant aspen trees that grow in the area, Aspen is a charming and welcoming city that offers some of the most gorgeous views in the country. The city is situated along the Roaring Fork River and sits at an elevation of just below 8,000 feet. Originally a silver mining colony, today Aspen is a playground for the rich and famous.

Aspen real estate & neighborhoods

Aspen real estate is some of the most expensive in the country, and the town has become a retreat for celebrities. In fact, in 2011 Aspen was the most expensive place in America to buy real estate. The median home price in Aspen is currently just over $2 million. Because it’s a world-renowned skiing destination, it’s also popular with tourists and there are many vacation rentals. However, the Aspen-Pitkin County Housing Office offers affordable housing on a lottery system, which is known locally as “employee housing.” Some of the most popular neighborhoods in Aspen include:

• The West End — Charm and beauty are abundant in this neighborhood full of beautiful Victorian homes, many of which are vacation homes for the rich and famous.
• The East End — Here you’ll find newer homes, condos, and more affordable homes. You’ll also be treated to exceptional views of Aspen Mountain.
• Centennial — Most “locals” live in Centennial, which is comprised of several affordable housing developments.
• Cemetery Lane — Full-time residents make up the bulk of the population in this historic neighborhood.
• Red Mountain — This exclusive neighborhood is an enclave of estate homes perched on the mountain which offer jaw-dropping views, with price tags of $20 million or more.

Aspen history

Originally known as Ute City, the town was renamed “Aspen” in 1880 and was a productive silver-mining operation. By 1893 the town had expanded greatly because of the Sherman Silver Purchase Act but collapsed when the act was repealed by Congress. By 1930 there were just 705 residents. After World World II, the area was re-developed as a ski resort and hosted the FIS World Championships in 1950. More ski areas were added in the following decades. Aspen is also home to institutions of international renown including the Aspen Institute, the Aspen Center for Physics, and the Aspen Music Festival and School.

Aspen amenities

Befitting its image as a place for jet-setters, Aspen’s downtown area caters to the well-heeled. The upscale shopping district includes trendy restaurants and a smattering of designer boutiques including Prada, Gucci, Dior, and Ralph Lauren. You’ll also find antique stores, art galleries, bookstores, cannabis dispensaries, florists, fur shops, sporting goods stores, and home decor stores among the shopping opportunities in the city.

Of course, there are many outdoor adventures to be had in Aspen. Skiing and snowboarding are big draws in Aspen, and there are four main resorts: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk Mountain, and Snowmass Mountain. But there’s more to Aspen than just winter recreation. Residents and visitors can enjoy biking, camping, golf, tennis, hiking, and water sports in the wilderness that surrounds the city year-round.

Aspen is also a haven for arts and culture. Take a tour of the Aspen Art Museum or the Aspen Historical Society. Enjoy festivals such as the Aspen Music Festival and the Jazz Aspen Snowmass. Aspen is also home to the Aspen Film Festival, the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, Theatre Aspen, and the Wheeler Opera House.

Aspen schools

Students in Aspen are served by the Aspen School District. It’s rated the #2 school district in Colorado by Niche. In recent years, Aspen High School has ranked the #1 high school in Colorado and #59 in the country. 

Explore Aspen today

Are you ready to see what all the fuss is about? Then contact the experts at Agent inc. 949-791-8160 or [email protected] to discover what makes Aspen such an incredible place to live.