Two of HGTV’s picks for best mid-sized cities are in Colorado

A pair of Colorado communities at opposite ends of the Front Range landed on HGTV’s list of the nation’s 20 best mid-sized cities.

USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

July 15, 2026

Crowds fill Old Town Square for the 2024 holiday lighting ceremony in Fort Collins, named one of the best mid-sized cities in America by HGTV. (Erin Udell/The Coloradoan via Reuters Connect)

Reporting by Nate Trela, Fort Collins Coloradoan

A pair of Colorado communities at opposite ends of the Front Range landed on HGTV’s list of the nation’s 20 best mid-sized cities.

Fort Collins and Colorado Springs picked up the honors, continuing HGTV’s fascination with Colorado communities.

The honorees span the nation, with more than half located in states that aren’t part of the coasts.

HGTV said its choices are perfect for when “you’re eager for a city getaway, but you’re not quite up for the big city part (aka New York or Chicago).” The communities on the list range from 100,000 to 500,000 people and include suburbs, capitals, college towns and even the largest cities in some states.

“Visit for the outdoor pursuits, sporting events and public artworks, but be warned: you may be inspired to stay awhile when you check out these places where the living is easy and the fun is almost guaranteed,” HGTV wrote.

Why was Fort Collins listed among the best mid-sized cities by HGTV?

Crowds fill Old Town Square for the annual holiday lighting ceremony in Fort Collins, named one of the best mid-sized cities in America — Crowds fill Old Town Square for the 2024 holiday lighting ceremony in Fort Collins, named one of the best mid-sized cities in America by HGTV. (Erin Udell/The Coloradoan via Reuters Connect)

Fort Collins, which was also recently honored by CNN, stood out to HGTV for its “cultural attractions, outdoor recreation and affordable housing” that were helping to draw new residents. The writeup also saluted its affordability, network of paved trails and dedicated bike lanes, Horsetooth Reservoir and craft beer scene.

Why was Colorado Springs listed among the best mid-sized cities by HGTV?

Colorado Springs, which HGTV notes has a path to pass Denver in population by 2050, stood out for its outdoors scene that included “dramatic red rocks at the Garden of the Gods, world-class whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River and, of course, the aspen trees that turn the region to gold in fall.” It highlighted the city’s new professional soccer stadium along with Pikes Peak as two can’t miss attractions.