Cost of Living in Black Forest, CO
Population 14,658 · Colorado · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Housing in Black Forest sits 164% above the national median — $805,000 for the typical home — but median household incomes near $142,173 (91% above the US figure) soften the blow that similar pricing creates in lower-wage metros. At 6.2%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Geographically, Black Forest sits roughly 14 miles north of Colorado Springs. Median home values run roughly 91% higher than Colorado Springs' $421,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Black Forest
The median home value in Black Forest is $805,200 — 164% above the national median of $305,000. The median household income of $142,173/year is 91% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 6.2%, above the national average of 4.8%. Colorado's top state income tax rate is 4.4% and the combined sales tax is 7.8%. Overall, Black Forest has a cost of living index of 264 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 164% more expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Black Forest, CO?
Black Forest has a cost index of 264 (100 = national average). It is 164% above the national average.
What is the average home price in Black Forest?
The median home value in Black Forest is $805,200 according to 2023 Census ACS data.
What is the median income in Black Forest?
The median household income in Black Forest is $142,173 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Black Forest, CO?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Black Forest is 7.8%. The Colorado state income tax top rate is 4.4%.
Is Black Forest, CO affordable?
Black Forest is above average in cost of living, with an index of 264 — about 164% higher than the national average.
Black Forest at a Glance
- Population
- 14,658
- Median Income
- $142,173
- Home Value
- $805,200
- Unemployment
- 6.2%
- Sales Tax
- 7.8%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Colorado Rankings
Similar Cost Cities
Cities in other states with comparable housing costs