What Is It Like to Live in Montrose, Colorado?

Montrose is a small city of 21,583 people (Census estimate, July 1, 2025) on the Western Slope, with about 245 sunny days a year, a regional hospital, an airport and a Main Street. Most residents drive to work in about 20 minutes. This is general information.

What do the Census numbers say?

Per the Census Bureau (2020-2024 unless noted): 70.7 percent owner-occupied housing, an average of 2.28 people per household, a mean commute of 20.4 minutes, a median household income of $70,386, a median home value of $387,900 and median gross rent of $1,197. About 27.7 percent of residents are age 65 or older.

What are the seasons like?

Visit Montrose describes pleasant summers with highs averaging 78°F, mild winters with daytime temperatures averaging 46°F and afternoon thunderstorms in late summer. See my weather post.

What is there to do?

The city has 38 parks, a botanic garden, golf courses and a Main Street with galleries and breweries. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is about 12 miles east. See my posts on downtown and the national park.

What are the downsides?

No place is perfect. Homes.com reports low walkability citywide (10 out of 100 by one third-party score), and public transit is limited to All Points Transit bus routes. Most households use a car. Homes are taking longer to sell than a year ago (54 days, per Redfin).

What should I do before I move?

• Visit in more than one season
• Compare neighborhoods and commutes
• Get quotes for insurance and ask for utility bills
• Check schools and healthcare for your needs
• Talk to people who live here

What is the bottom line?

Montrose offers sun, services and lower home prices than the mountain resort towns, with a car-dependent layout. Spend time here before you decide.

What is the population of Montrose?

21,583 as of July 1, 2025, per the Census Bureau.

Is Montrose a good place to live?

Many people think so; visit to see if it fits you.

How long is the commute?

About 20.4 minutes on average (2020-2024).

Does Montrose have public transit?

Limited, through All Points Transit.

Connect with a great real estate agent in Montrose, Kelsey Loftis with Crystal Peak Properties. Phone: (970) 784-6768 · Email: kelseyloftis@gmail.com · Website: crystalpeakproperties.com

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts, Montrose city; Visit Montrose; Homes.com; Redfin Montrose (Sept. 2026). General information only.