July 2026 | June 2026 | May 2026
July 2026
Fort Collins earns national spotlight
Fort Collins is earning national recognition once again. CNN Travel has named the city one of America’s Best Towns to Visit in 2026, highlighting its vibrant downtown, thriving craft beer scene, outdoor recreation, and easy access to the foothills of the Rockies. The recognition celebrates the unique blend of small-town charm, cultural experiences, and year-round adventure that continues to make Fort Collins a favorite destination for both visitors and locals alike. Click here to read the full article.
Poudre River Trail reaches a new milestone
Northern Colorado has a new reason to get outside. With the completion of its final connection, the Poudre River Trail now stretches approximately 45 continuous miles from Bellvue to Greeley, making it one of Colorado’s longest paved multi-use trails. Decades in the making, the scenic route links communities, parks, and open spaces along the Cache la Poudre River, creating an exceptional destination for walking, running, and cycling. Click here to explore the trail online!
CSU joins the Pac-12
A new era has officially begun for Colorado State University athletics. As of July 1, CSU is officially a member of the reimagined Pac-12 Conference, joining a new lineup of western universities in a move expected to elevate the university’s national profile, strengthen athletic competition, and expand opportunities for students, research, and community engagement. The transition marks one of the most significant milestones in CSU’s athletic history.
June 2026
Johnstown #10 in nation for growth
Johnstown’s rapid transformation from a small northern Colorado town into one of the nation’s fastest-growing communities is drawing attention. Fueled by major commercial investments, new housing development, and its strategic location along I-25, the town recently ranked among the top U.S. cities for population growth. Johnstown’s population grew 8.4% between 2024 and 2025, placing it 10th nationally and first in Colorado among communities with more than 20,000 residents. Two other Colorado communities also landed in the national Top 100: Erie ranked 37th with 5.8% growth, while Windsor came in at 60th with 4.7% growth. Together, the rankings highlight Northern Colorado’s continued appeal as a destination for new residents, businesses, and investment. Click here to read more.
Main Street Makeover: Wellington project breaks ground
A long-awaited transformation of downtown Wellington is officially underway. Construction has begun on the Cleveland Avenue revitalization project, a major infrastructure investment that will bring improved sidewalks, drainage, lighting, accessibility upgrades, and expanded parking to the town’s historic core. Funded largely through state and federal grants, the project is designed to create a safer, more walkable downtown while supporting local businesses and future growth. Work is expected to continue through late 2026, with phased construction aimed at minimizing disruptions along Wellington’s Main Street corridor. Click here to read more.
Housing Market Snapshot: Q1 2026
Information and Real Estate Services (IRES) recently released their Q1 2026 MarketWatch Report. In Larimer County, the median sales price was $539,145 for Q1-2026, a 2% decrease year-over-year. The number of closed sales was up 5.1%, coming in at 1,185. In Weld County, the median sales price was $490,000 for Q1-2026, a 2% decrease year-over-year. The number of closed sales was down 1.5%, coming in at 1,207. In Boulder County, the median sales price was $722,000 for Q1-2026, a 0.8% year-over-year increase. The number of closed sales was up 2.3%, coming in at 849.
May 2026
Colorado #2 Most Financially Literate State
Colorado ranked #2 in WalletHub’s 2026 list of the Most Financially Literate States, earning high marks for smart money habits, education, and access to banking. The report noted that only 1.10% of Colorado households are unbanked—far lower than many other states—and that Colorado has the third-highest share of adults age 25+ with at least a bachelor’s degree. WalletHub also highlighted that Colorado requires personal finance education in schools, helping build strong financial skills from an early age. Click here to read the full article.
Larimer County Leads Region in Low Unemployment
Colorado’s labor market continues to show resilience, with Larimer County posting the lowest unemployment rate in the Boulder Valley and Northern Colorado region, according to new data highlighted by BizWest. Larimer County recorded an unadjusted February jobless rate of 4.2%, edging out Broomfield County and Boulder County at 4.3%, while Weld County came in at 4.8%. The report signals continued economic strength in Northern Colorado, where steady hiring and a diverse business base are helping keep unemployment relatively low.
Best Places to Retire? Colorado Delivers.
A new ranking spotlighted Colorado as a standout destination for retirees, with four Front Range cities making the list of the best places to retire in the state. Centennial claimed the top spot, while Pueblo, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins were also recognized for their mix of affordability, amenities, health care access, and outdoor lifestyle. The rankings highlight Colorado’s growing appeal for those seeking an active and scenic retirement. Click here to read the full article.