Moving to Colorado Springs is exciting, but the details can pile up fast. You may be juggling movers, utilities, school enrollments, and legal deadlines while getting used to life at 6,035 feet. This step-by-step checklist shows you exactly what to do and when, with local timelines, links, and pro tips to make your move smooth. Let’s dive in.
Why planning here matters
Colorado Springs sits at high altitude, which affects daily life, home systems, and even how you feel the first few days. Get familiar with the elevation and climate so you can plan hydration, HVAC needs, and yard care from day one. Learn more about the city’s elevation and setting on the Colorado Springs overview page from Wikipedia.
- The city’s elevation is about 6,035 feet, so allow time to adjust and hydrate. Source
- Home prices trend higher than the national average, and inventory varies by neighborhood and price tier. Local coverage notes prices clustering around the high 400s to about 500K in recent reports. Market context
- Major employers include defense and aerospace, federal installations, and health care, which shape commute patterns and neighborhood demand. Employer overview
60–90 days before your move
Get the big pieces set early so you are not scrambling.
- Research neighborhoods and commute routes to key employers.
- Verify local school options, assigned schools by address, and enrollment timelines. Start gathering documents. District info
- Get moving quotes and reserve your date, especially for spring or summer moves. Confirm experience with local conditions if you have specialty items.
- Check HOA rules for move-in hours, moving trucks, elevator reservations, and exterior rules.
- Line up utilities and internet options by address to avoid gaps after you arrive. Start here
- Gather documents for Colorado DMV: ID, proof of Colorado address, and Social Security information. DMV guidance
- If you are buying or selling, review estimated closing costs, recording, and tax proration with your title team.
30 days before your move
Now focus on confirmations and address changes.
- Set up mail forwarding and update your address with banks, payroll, insurance, and subscriptions.
- Start, stop, or transfer utilities with Colorado Springs Utilities. Confirm trash and recycling service for your address. CSU My Account
- Schedule internet installation for move week to avoid delays.
- If your street or building requires it, arrange a temporary no-parking or moving-truck permit. Ask your mover if they handle this. Permit overview
- If you are buying, confirm recording and documentary fee details with your title company. Recording process
- If you are selling or buying, understand how property taxes are prorated at closing and which taxing entities apply. Tax basics
- Finalize school enrollment and transportation details if applicable. Enrollment steps
Moving day checklist
A little prep keeps the day on track and damage free.
- Before movers arrive: confirm parking plans, reserve elevators if needed, and clear paths in both homes. Pack a “first night” bag with documents, chargers, medications, and a change of clothes.
- Meter photos: take time-stamped photos of electric, gas, and water meters at move-in and note your account activation time with CSU. CSU account
- Safety first: test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Find the main water shutoff, circuit breaker, and gas shutoff.
- Appliances and systems: check major appliances and record serial numbers for warranties and insurance.
First 1–2 weeks in the Springs
Knock out the legal items and get your daily life set up.
- Driver license and vehicle registration: transfer your out-of-state driver license within 30 days of becoming a Colorado resident, and register vehicles within 90 days. Appointments are recommended. DMV steps
- Address updates: confirm USPS forwarding is working, then update professional licenses as needed.
- School tasks: verify bus eligibility and supply lists. District info
- Explore the city: visit Garden of the Gods and nearby parks to learn your new area. Park overview
- Altitude adjustment: hydrate, pace yourself on workouts, and check in with a doctor if symptoms persist.
First month and beyond
Get ahead of home care and local norms.
- Confirm your deed recorded correctly and review the final settlement statement. Contact your title company with any questions. Recording process
- Review your CSU account preferences for notifications and billing. Manage utilities
- Property tax follow-up: understand billing cycles and which districts apply to your property. Tax basics
- Wildfire readiness: consider defensible space, roofing material choices, and ember-resistant maintenance if your property is in a wildland interface area.
- Weather-smart home care: schedule furnace service, clean gutters before winter, and consider irrigation or xeriscaping to fit the semi-arid climate.
- HOA and trash logistics: confirm bulk pickup rules, recycling days, and any restrictions on exterior storage or parking.
Pro tips for local living
Set yourself up for Colorado Springs life from day one.
- Parking and permits: some denser areas or buildings require temporary permits for moving trucks. Check rules in advance. How permits work
- Commute context: defense and aerospace installations influence traffic around certain corridors. Employer overview
- Outdoor lifestyle: plan for sunny days, temperature swings, and winter snow. Keep traction gear and a snow brush in your car.
- Renovations: before grading or exterior projects, confirm any needed permits and check for drainage or floodplain constraints.
- Safety basics: save non-emergency numbers for police and fire, plus county public works.
Ready for a smoother move with local guidance at each step? Work with an experienced, full-time agent team that handles corporate and military relocations, connects you to vetted vendors, and keeps your timeline on track. Start your Colorado Springs move with The Platinum Group - CO.
FAQs
How soon do I need a Colorado driver license when moving to Colorado Springs?
- Transfer your out-of-state license within 30 days of becoming a Colorado resident, and register your vehicles within 90 days. Appointments and document checklists are available on the DMV site.
Who provides utilities for most Colorado Springs homes and rentals?
- Colorado Springs Utilities typically provides electric, gas, water, and wastewater service within the city service area. Start, stop, or transfer service online and verify trash and recycling for your specific address.
What closing costs should I expect for recording when buying in El Paso County?
- Expect a state documentary fee for deeds above a certain amount and county recording fees. Your title company will detail exact figures on your settlement statement, and you can review county recording guidance online.
Do I need a permit to park a moving truck at my new place?
- It depends on your street and building. Many areas allow brief loading, but some require a temporary no-parking permit. Ask your mover or check with the city’s parking office before moving day.
What should I know about altitude when relocating to Colorado Springs?
- Mild symptoms like headaches or shortness of breath are common for newcomers. Hydrate, take it easy for the first couple of days, and consult a medical professional if symptoms persist.
