What to know when moving to Del Norte, CO
Del Norte at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 28.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree and 23.1% rent their homes.
- The Major Draw:
- The median household income is $58,889, providing a solid economic foundation.
- The Reality Check:
- Only 1.3% of residents use public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $947/month in rent, which is manageable compared to some larger cities.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Del Norte has a population of about 3,309, with a median gross rent of $947 and a median owner-occupied home value of $192,100. The community features a relatively low poverty rate of 8.9%, indicating a level of economic stability. However, with only 1.3% commuting via public transit, residents should plan on relying heavily on personal vehicles.
Probably not your spot if you prefer urban living with robust public transportation options.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $947, which is relatively affordable for the area.
- Median owner-occupied home value stands at $192,100, indicating a manageable entry point for homebuyers.
- 28.7% of the population holds a bachelor's degree, reflecting a moderately educated community.
- The poverty rate is 8.9%, contributing to a stable economic environment.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Colorado, the annual property crime rate is 2,168.8 per 100,000 residents, significantly higher than the national average of 1,546.9. The violent crime rate stands at 420.3 per 100,000, also above the national average of 325.3. Notably, the homicide rate is low at 3.6 per 100,000, showing a downward trend of 46.8% since 2022.
- Violent crime: 420.3 per 100k vs. national 325.3
- Property crime: 2,168.8 per 100k vs. national 1,546.9
- Homicide rate down 46.8% since 2022
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Colorado).
Weather & Getting Outside
Rio Grande County receives about 7.7 inches of precipitation annually, spread across roughly 45 rainy days. The area experiences minimal snowfall, making it suitable for those who prefer drier climates. Local outdoor spots include:
- Del Norte Town Park - 4.6 stars, 421 reviews
- Woods and River RV Park - 4.6 stars, 294 reviews
- Rio Grande County Museum - 4.6 stars, 38 reviews
- Middle Frisco Trailhead - 4.6 stars, 32 reviews
- Stone Quarry Trail Head - 4.8 stars, 4 reviews
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Rio Grande County, the unemployment rate is 3.9% as of December 2025, with a labor force of 4,897 and 4,708 employed individuals. This indicates a stable job market in the area.
- Unemployment rate: 3.9% (December 2025)
- Employed: 4,708
- Labor force: 4,897
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.