Breathtaking mountain destination for year-round adventures.
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is one of the world’s premier destinations for luxury living, outdoor adventure, and cultural sophistication. Renowned for its four world-class ski resorts, high-end real estate, and vibrant arts scene, Aspen combines mountain-town charm with cosmopolitan amenities. Whether as a year-round residence or seasonal retreat, Aspen draws global buyers seeking natural beauty, world-class recreation, and unmatched exclusivity.
Set at an elevation of about 8,000 feet, Aspen is a historic mining town turned luxury resort community. The town is famous for Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass ski areas, along with year-round hiking, biking, and fly-fishing. Downtown Aspen offers upscale boutiques, five-star restaurants, and renowned cultural venues such as the Aspen Institute and Aspen Music Festival. Real estate here ranges from slope-side chalets and modern mountain estates to historic downtown residences, all reflecting the prestige of one of America’s most exclusive markets.
| Key Facts about Aspen, CO | |
|---|---|
| Area | ~3.8 sq mi (City of Aspen) |
| County | Pitkin County |
| Established | 1879 (Silver mining town; incorporated 1881) |
| Population (recent est.) | ~7,400 (city) • ~17,000 (countywide) |
| Elevation | ~8,000 ft (2,438 m) |
| Signature Attractions | Aspen Mountain • Snowmass • Aspen Highlands • Buttermilk • Aspen Music Festival & School • The Aspen Institute • Maroon Bells Scenic Area |
| Main Roads | Colorado State Highway 82 (connects to Glenwood Springs & I-70) |
Aspen represents the pinnacle of luxury mountain living, offering a lifestyle where alpine adventure meets cultural excellence. With a global reputation, limited real estate supply, and enduring demand, Aspen remains one of the most coveted real estate markets in the United States.
Aspen sits high in the Rocky Mountains at an elevation of about 8,000 feet, surrounded by breathtaking peaks and alpine forests. Renowned as both a ski mecca and year-round resort, Aspen offers seamless access to recreation, culture, and luxury amenities. Downtown is compact and highly walkable, with shops, dining, and cultural venues all clustered within a few blocks.
Regional and long-haul connectivity is anchored by Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, with seasonal nonstops from major U.S. cities. Highway 82 links Aspen to Glenwood Springs and I-70, while free shuttles, biking paths, and walkable town streets make it easy to navigate without a car once in town.
| Connectivity & Transportation — Aspen, CO | |
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| Location Map & Town Overview | High in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Aspen lies in Pitkin County along the Roaring Fork River. Downtown is compact, walkable, and surrounded by four ski resorts: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. |
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| Walking & Cycling | Aspen is exceptionally walkable. Dedicated bike lanes and paths connect town to Snowmass and nearby trails. The Rio Grande Trail follows the old rail corridor 40+ miles down-valley toward Glenwood Springs. |
| Taxi & Ride Apps | Uber, Lyft, and local taxi services are available. Hotel shuttles and private car services (including luxury SUVs) are popular for airport and resort transfers. |
| Accessibility & EV | Downtown shops, restaurants, and cultural venues offer ADA access. EV charging stations are available at ASE Airport, select hotels, and public lots in Aspen and Snowmass. |
Aspen offers world-class convenience in a mountain setting — fly directly into town, walk to restaurants and cultural events, take free shuttles to the ski slopes, or enjoy scenic drives into Colorado’s high country.
Aspen’s market is defined by scarcity, global demand, and a deep luxury segment across ski-in/ski-out chalets, modern mountain estates, and in-town condos. As of late 2025, the citywide median sold price is roughly $3.4M, with list-side pricing around $3.8M and an indicative $2,700 per sq. ft. at the listing level. Days on market trend in the 3–4 month range overall, with ultra-luxury properties taking longer due to bespoke features and limited comps. Neighborhoods like Red Mountain and the West End continue to command the highest premiums, while Snowmass Village offers a broader range of slope-adjacent options.
| Property Type | Median Price (USD) | Price per Sq.Ft (USD) | Average Rent (USD/month) | Rental Yield* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR Condo / In-Town Residence | $2.6M (indicative) | $2,400–$2,900 | $12,000–$18,000 | 3.5%–5.0% (est.) |
| 3BR Townhome / Chalet | $3.4M (median sold proxy) | $2,400–$3,000 | $25,000–$35,000 | 3.5%–4.5% (est.) |
| 4BR Single-Family (Luxury) | $6.0M+ | $2,600–$3,500+ | $40,000–$60,000+ | 2.5%–4.0% (est.) |
| Ultra-Luxury Estate (Prime View/Ski-in) | $10M–$25M+ | $3,000–$5,000+ | $75,000–$150,000+ | 2.0%–3.0% (est.) |
*Methodology & Notes: Citywide medians and PPSF references blend recent sold-side and listing-side trackers (Aug 2025). Rent bands reflect long-term (30+ day) offerings and exclude nightly/short-term peaks; luxury seasonal rates can skew higher. Yields are illustrative and vary by location (e.g., Red Mountain vs. downtown), ski access, view corridors, and amenities.
Aspen balances alpine adventure with cultural sophistication. At 8,000 feet in the Rockies, this world-renowned resort town offers four ski areas, designer boutiques, five-star dining, and globally recognized events like the Aspen Music Festival and Food & Wine Classic. Its walkable downtown, vibrant community, and year-round activities make it as appealing in summer as in winter.
Set in Pitkin County, Aspen sits along the Roaring Fork River and is surrounded by four ski mountains: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk.
Tight-knit yet international. Residents include long-term locals, seasonal homeowners, and global visitors. Cultural events, farmer’s markets, art galleries, and outdoor gatherings foster year-round connection.
Michelin-recognized chefs, upscale bistros, and après-ski lounges define the scene. From sushi and French-inspired dining to cozy mountain taverns, Aspen’s food culture rivals major cities.
Served by Aspen School District, which includes Aspen Elementary, Middle, and High Schools. Private options, outdoor education programs, and enrichment via arts, skiing, and mountain ecology are widely available.
Includes ski-in/ski-out condos, contemporary mountain chalets, historic downtown Victorians, and ultra-luxury estates on Red Mountain. Demand is global, and inventory is extremely limited.
Compact, walkable core. Free RFTA shuttles connect ski areas and Snowmass. Highway 82 links to Glenwood Springs & I-70. Aspen/Pitkin County Airport offers direct flights to major U.S. hubs.
High-alpine: snowy winters with world-class powder; warm, dry summers with cool nights. Clear seasonal contrasts support skiing, hiking, biking, and year-round outdoor lifestyles.
Designer boutiques, luxury resorts, wellness spas, private clubs, golf courses, and fine art institutions. Everyday conveniences in town complement exclusive lifestyle options.
Population of ~7,400 in town, with seasonal peaks. Mix of high-net-worth second homeowners, local professionals, and a vibrant hospitality/service workforce. Global community with strong cultural capital.
Prestigious mountain destination, year-round recreation, international airport nearby, luxury lifestyle, world-class cultural events, and enduring global brand value.
High real estate prices and limited inventory, seasonal crowds, limited road access (single highway), and weather-dependent travel. Ultra-premium cost of living.
Skiing, snowboarding, cross-country trails, hiking Maroon Bells, fly-fishing, mountain biking, rafting the Roaring Fork, and summer festivals under clear alpine skies.
Aspen’s lifestyle offers the rare combination of alpine adventure and refined culture— from ski slopes and hiking trails to art festivals, luxury dining, and a vibrant community spirit.
Aspen offers a refined mix of world-class amenities—from elite healthcare and luxury shopping to outdoor recreation, cultural institutions, and wellness resorts. Below are highlights that elevate daily life and reinforce Aspen’s reputation as a premier global destination.
Families in Aspen are primarily served by the Aspen School District (ASD), which includes highly regarded public schools covering preschool through high school. Options extend to private and independent schools in Aspen and nearby communities, offering Montessori, language immersion, arts, and college-prep programs. The district consistently earns strong ratings for academics, extracurriculars, and community engagement.
Aspen schools emphasize college-prep rigor, STEM & arts integration, outdoor education, and personalized learning that leverages the valley’s unique mountain environment. Families should confirm current enrollment availability, preschool slots, and transfer policies before applying.
| School / Preschool | Type | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aspen Elementary School | Public (K–4) — ASD | Aspen | Strong academics, small class sizes, STEM and arts integration, outdoor-based enrichment. |
| Basalt Elementary School | Public (K–4) — Roaring Fork SD | Basalt (~20 mi) | Bilingual and dual-language programs; strong community involvement and arts focus. |
| Aspen Middle School | Public (5–8) — ASD | Aspen | Wide electives including language, performing arts, athletics; emphasis on leadership and outdoor programs. |
| Basalt Middle School | Public (5–8) — Roaring Fork SD | Basalt | Strong academics, sports, and language immersion; serves greater mid-valley families. |
| Aspen High School | Public (9–12) — ASD | Aspen | International Baccalaureate (IB) program, AP courses, strong athletics, performing arts, and community service emphasis. |
| Colorado Rocky Mountain School | Private (9–12) | Carbondale (~30 mi) | Independent college-prep with focus on outdoor leadership, experiential learning, and global citizenship. |
| Wildwood School | Private (PreK–8) | Aspen | Independent program with individualized learning, arts, and strong parent engagement. |
| Aspen Country Day School | Private (PreK–8) | Aspen | Montessori-influenced early learning, outdoor education, small classes, arts & languages. |
| Aspen Valley Preschool | Private Preschool | Aspen | Play-based curriculum with focus on nature, social skills, and kindergarten readiness. |
| Aspen Community School | Charter (K–8) | Woody Creek (~8 mi) | Alternative education with individualized instruction, experiential learning, and close-knit community. |
Districts: Aspen School District (ASD) serves most local families, with additional options in the Roaring Fork School District (Basalt & Carbondale). Tip: Confirm attendance boundaries, IB/AP program slots, preschool availability, and enrollment timelines directly with each school.
Aspen consistently ranks among the most prestigious mountain real estate markets in the U.S., driven by ultra-luxury estates, ski-in/ski-out residences, and high-end condos/townhomes. Global demand, extremely limited land supply, and world-class amenities (four ski areas, marquee cultural institutions, designer retail) underpin long-term value.
Why Aspen? International brand recognition, direct air access (ASE airport), true four-season appeal, and scarce inventory. Investment theses range from seasonal rental performance to buy-and-hold appreciation of trophy assets. Note that short-term rental rules in the City of Aspen and Pitkin County are strict and permit-based—always verify current ordinances, zones, and tax requirements before purchase.
Luxury Homes: $40,000–$60,000+/mo (seasonal higher)
3BR Townhome/Chalet: $25,000–$35,000/mo
2BR In-Town Condo: $12,000–$18,000/mo
STR Nightly: ~$600–$3,000+ (season & location dependent)
Premiums for ski access, views, renovated interiors, and hotel-style amenities.
Aspen’s blend of global cachet, year-round lifestyle, and finite supply supports resilient values across market cycles—particularly for properties with direct ski access, walkability, and best-in-class finishes.
Nestled at 8,000 feet in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Aspen blends alpine adventure with luxury living. From Red Mountain’s trophy estates to downtown’s walkable core of boutiques, galleries, and fine dining, Aspen is a global destination with a small-town feel.
Housing options range from ski-in/ski-out chalets and modern mountain estates to historic Victorians and downtown condos. Inventory is limited, and premiums rise for slope-side access, panoramic views, and high-design interiors. Short-term rentals are in demand, but permits and city rules apply—compliance is essential.
Day-to-day life includes world-class skiing, hiking at Maroon Bells, biking along the Rio Grande Trail, and year-round cultural events such as the Aspen Music Festival and Food & Wine Classic. Residents enjoy exceptional healthcare, designer shopping, fine dining, and direct air service from Aspen/Pitkin County Airport.
With its rare combination of prestige, natural beauty, and global accessibility, Aspen remains one of the most coveted destinations for year-round living, seasonal retreats, and real estate investment.
Explore Aspen Real Estate →Aspen combines prestige, alpine beauty, and global appeal—a market where luxury living, investment, and recreation align seamlessly.
6,862 people live in Aspen, where the median age is 41.7 and the average individual income is $111,266. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Aspen has 4,082 households, with an average household size of 1.65. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Aspen do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 6,862 people call Aspen home. The population density is 1,778.74 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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There's plenty to do around Aspen, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Mark Richards of Aspen, Misstyx, and Ski Butlers.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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| Shopping | 1.13 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Shopping | 1.01 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Shopping | 1.95 miles | 20 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Shopping | 1 miles | 14 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.38 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.07 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.23 miles | 21 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.06 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.02 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 0.85 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.53 miles | 77 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.06 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.49 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.43 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.85 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.24 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.99 miles | 39 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
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Saslove & Warwick approaches Aspen's real estate landscape with an auspicious blend of experience, deep community ties and forward thinking. Contact Saslove & Warwick today to get started on your real estate journey with the experts for Aspen Real Estate.
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