With a population of 4,883 people, Breckenridge, CO, is one of the premier ski destinations in Summit County.
A small town with a population that dramatically rises once the snow falls and the ski slopes open, Breckenridge has a reputation for being pricey.
However, is this reputation warranted, and is it actually less expensive to vacation or move to Breckenridge than you would assume, considering the city looks like it was pulled from a boutique postcard?
In addition to snow-covered peaks and five-star dining, Breckenridge is also famous for its Italian gelato.
If you are visiting Breckenridge after the snow starts to fall, embrace the chilly season with our Breckenridge winter gelato delights – a perfect companion for snowy days.
Breckenridge Cost of Living: How Does it Compare to the National Average?
There is no denying the natural beauty of Breckenridge – but will you pay a premium for the views?
On average, the cost of living index is an estimated 145% higher than the national average and approximately 78.5% higher than the average living costs throughout the state of Colorado.
Why is the cost of living in Breckenridge so high – the answer is because of the combined cost of housing, dining at local restaurants, shopping at expensive markets and boutiques, and the total cost of taxes, child care, and your other daily needs.
Before you count out Breckenridge as a potential place to call home, realize the median household income is $121,125, which is over 30% higher than the rest of the state and much higher than the national average.
Housing Costs in Breckenridge
The cost of housing, including purchasing a home and property rentals, in Breckenridge is well above the state average.
The median listed home price in the city is $1.6 million, compared to the median home price in Colorado, which is $605,000.
Want to rent a modest 2-bedroom apartment?
You can expect to pay $3,800.
If you are feeling stressed about the cost of housing in Breckenridge, here is a simple way to cool down your nerves – Enjoy a refreshing scoop of gelato!
Discover the finest gelato in Breckenridge and treat yourself to a delightful experience.
How Much Does a Single Person Need to Earn to Live in Breckenridge?
After vacationing in Breckenridge for years, you are ready to become a year-round resident.
You are all about budgets and want to ensure that, as a single person, you can afford to live and have some fun in Colorado’s Kingdom.
Single Breckenridge residents need to earn at least $48,000 to live comfortably.
For families of four, including two adults and two children, this number skyrockets to nearly $200,000/year, much higher than the rest of the country.
Average Health Care Costs and Available Health Insurance Coverage
Thanks to an extensive network of quality hospitals and clinics in and around Breckenridge, the cost of healthcare is actually lower than the national average and slightly below the average price in Colorado.
Roughly 80.4% of Breckenridge residents have health insurance, and the cost a single adult can expect to pay is approximately 20% higher than the national average.
Calling Breckenridge Home: Average Price of Necessities in Summit County
Like other travelers to the Breckenridge area, you’ve considered calling this beautiful corner of Colorado home, but what are the costs of your everyday needs – from a week’s worth of groceries to renting an apartment and the prices of treating your family to a night at a fine dining restaurant?
The prices in Breckenridge are typically higher than in the rest of the country – including the cost of child care.
Food costs, including the cost of groceries and the cost of an average meal at a local restaurant, are also higher in Breckenridge.
The average family of four in the city can expect to pay an average of $12,143/ year on groceries, which is higher than the national average of $9,354.
Regarding other necessities, from basic utilities to several types of insurance, the prices are also higher in Breckenridge.
Exploring the Right Cultural History of Breckenridge
Originally founded in 1859 after gold was discovered in the area, Breckenridge is named for the 14th Vice President, John C. Breckinridge.
Most people visit Breckenridge for hiking trails, luxury resorts, five-star hotels, and, of course, skiing.
However, if you are only spending time outdoors, you are missing out on the area’s unique history.
Ever wondered what Breckenridge, CO, is known for? Let’s explore its rich heritage and more:
Take a Short Trip Through the History of Breckenridge
There are dozens of historic sites and attractions throughout the city – Here are a few of the best:
The Barney Ford Museum. Constructed in honor of Barney Ford, a formerly enslaved individual who rose to prominence in the area, the museum is a testament to the tenacity of the human spirit.
Breckenridge Historic District. Home to several historic landmarks and museums, a stroll through the historic district is a must-see for every visitor.
Edwin Carter Museum. A former prospector, the Edwin Carter Museum is a testament to the workers who made Breckenridge a historic area. The museum features several taxidermied animals and flora and is a premier destination in the city.
The best sweet treat to enjoy while strolling through the historic district is, of course, gelato!
Take a journey through time with the history of gelato and coffee in Breckenridge and discover how these two delights became town favorites.
Visiting Breckenridge, CO: Finding an Affordable Hotel or Rental Home
Let’s face it: You are visiting Breckenridge for a chance to marvel at the Rocky Mountains while you enjoy an afternoon of skiing and snowboarding with friends!
Your dream is to rent a cabin on the mountain – but is it cheaper to stay in a hotel or rental home downtown or take a short drive and stay in a nearby suburb?
Consider staying during the low season – between March and October, when the hotels are empty and the prices are reasonable.
Want to save a few dollars during the peak skiing season – book a hotel or rental in a smaller town near Breckenridge, such as Lakewood, Salida, Wheat Ridge, or Englewood.
Taxes in Breckenridge
The combined local and state sales tax rate in Breckenridge is 8.875%, much higher than the national average of 6.57%.
Homeowners can expect to pay 7.15% in property taxes, including taxes on single-family homes, townhouses, and condos.
Transportation Options and Costs in Breckenridge
With a high cost of living and a relatively high median household income, it’s no surprise that most Breckenridge residents drive their cars and SUVs back and forth to work, the gym, daycare, and their favorite restaurant.
Roughly 72.4% of residents commute alone, and only 6.7% use mass transit and public transportation, such as the free bus service, which provides limited routes to and from ski resorts and throughout the downtown area.
However, if you want to fit in with the locals, you really need to park your car and walk or bike throughout the area.
After a bike ride with the kids, why not stop for a gelato scoop?
Introduce your little ones to the world of fun gelato flavors for kids and watch their eyes light up with joy.
People Also Ask
Is Breckenridge expensive to visit?
The answer to this question is “It depends on the time of year.”
During the peak season between November through March, the prices in Breckenridge, from hotels to restaurants and attractions, rise significantly.
To avoid the crowds and higher costs, wait for the snow to melt and check out the hiking and biking trails in and around the area during the late spring and early summer.
Is Breckenridge worth it?
Most towns draw in tourists with the promise of sights, sounds, and wonders for the whole family – but Breckenridge delivers!
Of course, world-class skiing is in some of the country’s finest resorts, excellent five-star restaurants, quirky shops, and high-end boutiques in the art district.
While you are enjoying the site and sounds and making friends with the locals, make it a point to stop in and say “Hi” to the crew at I Scream Gelato!
Dive deep into the art of gelato in Breckenridge and uncover the secrets behind its creamy texture.
Is Breckenridge expensive to ski?
According to the Denver Gazette, Breckenridge is the fourth most expensive town to enjoy an afternoon skiing in Colorado.
The average daily cost of a ski lift ticket is $141/day.
This is compared to the cost of skiing in Aspen, which is roughly $155/day.
If you want to save money, check out Purgatory, CO, where the average person will only spend $90/day.
Are flights to Breckenridge expensive?
Eagle County Regional Airport in Eagle, CO, is the closest airport to Breckenridge.
You will need to drive the last 75 miles from Eagle to reach your hotel.
Because of the airport’s proximity to both Vail and Breckenridge, it is more expensive to fly into Eagle than to book a flight to the Denver International Airport.
A more detailed cost estimate of flights to either airport will change daily, and you should keep an eye out for cheaper flights by booking through an affiliate website rather than the airline directly.
It Wouldn’t Be a Vacation in Breckenridge Without a Visit to I Scream Gelato!
You’ve skied, walked through the Arts District, and enjoyed an outstanding dinner at the Blue River Bistro, and there is only one thing that will make the day perfect: A scoop of your favorite gelato from I Scream Gelato!
Whether you want to sample something new or enjoy a tried-and-true old favorite, you can always find just what you are looking for when you sample what we have to offer.
Are you ready to try something bolder and more refined?
For those seeking a spirited treat, our boozy gelato flavors in Breckenridge, CO, are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
The Finest Gelateria in Colorado!
With locations in several states, I Scream Gelato is the premier gelateria across the country.
In addition to the over 70 flavors available, you can pair your favorite gelato with a gooey Belgian waffle, pancakes, bubble waffle cone or indulge in the best coffee in Breck.
What are you waiting for? Contact us today to ask about your flavor selection catering options or to learn more about our gelato franchise opportunities.
