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Aspen Highlights
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01Easy access to world-renowned ski resorts, hiking trails, and other outdoor recreation opportunities
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02A vibrant downtown with historic charm and ample choices for shopping and dining
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03Private and luxurious neighborhoods with picturesque views of the mountains
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04Investment and rental properties available on the real estate market
Aspen Real Estate Statistics
| Average Price | $16.3M |
|---|---|
| Lowest Price | $500K |
| Highest Price | $300M |
| Total Listings | 204 |
| Avg. Price/SQFT | $3.7K |
Property Types (active listings)
Aspen, CO At A Glance
The history of the Aspen area dates back thousands of years, specifically with the Indigenous Ute Tribe, who thrived on abundant deer and elk hunting. Eventually, vast silver reserves were discovered in the Roaring Fork Valley, and the city of Aspen was born. Though perhaps most well-known for being a mining community at the time, it was named after the Aspen trees that filled the valleys.
In 1947, the city re-invented itself when “Ajax” Mountain, one of the first ski resorts in the U.S., sprouted from the heart of its historic district. Any trace of “tarnish” was quickly erased as Aspen became a stomping ground for some of the country’s most enigmatic celebrities. Personalities like John Wayne and Hunter S. Thompson famously paraded around town, shooting back bourbon at the Hotel Jerome and trying their hand on the slopes. As the saying goes, Aspen locals “came for the winter and stayed for the summer.”
Aspen is most famous as a ski destination ski resort, but snow sports are merely the tip of the iceberg. Summer hiking is nearly as popular as skiing. Additional activities include mountain biking, rafting, fly fishing, ziplining, and even paragliding. Aspen is also known for its wildflowers in July and August, as well as its weekend music festivals.
Today, Aspen has become a retreat for movie stars and tech moguls alike, but it’s never lost its authenticity as an elite mountain town. As such, it’s no wonder the life expectancy in Pitkin County has reached 93 years, according to the U.S. News and World Report.
Discover Aspen Real Estate
Recognized as an affluent city, Aspen’s real estate market matches the lifestyle of the mountains, from cabin-style properties to mountain view condos. Additionally, architectural style ranges, and includes both traditional log cabins and contemporary estates. Regardless of design, Aspen’s properties encompass that picturesque mountain lifestyle, and properties often have views of the surrounding scenery.
In regards to the market, Aspen’s active listings comprise primarily single-family homes, with some options for condos and townhomes. Homes for sale in Aspen are quite luxurious, and the historic properties in the city center have often been well-preserved—though renovations and modern upgrades are almost standard. Outside of the downtown, Aspen offers large estate homes perched on the mountainside. Subdivisions, such as Silverlode and Smuggler, have views of the nearby landscapes, and are located close to Aspen’s trails and parks.
New construction properties are incredibly popular, and offer unique architecture—though integrating the classic cottage and cabin features into more contemporary designs is one of the most popular options. Single-family homes make for excellent full-time residences or vacation properties, as do Aspen’s condos for sale. While the estates often provide substantial acreage, condos offer the same views alongside some high-end features. Most condos and townhomes are conveniently located near the downtown and are desirable for their substantial square footage, gorgeous views, and rental opportunities.
From condos, cottages, and ranches to private luxury estates, you’ll find Aspen real estate perfect for living and investment alike.
Neighborhoods in Aspen
Aspen is not a village or a resort. Aspen is distinctly a small city and, like any city, is home to a number of unique neighborhoods, including East Aspen, West Aspen, the West End, McLain Flats, Snowmass Village, Smuggler, and Woody Creek. However, no two stand out quite like the Aspen Core (Aspen downtown) and Billionaire Mountain (Red Mountain).
The Aspen Core is the beating heart of the entire Roaring Fork Valley. Here’s where you’ll find most Aspen condos for sale, as well as townhouses and historic homes. Within walking distance is skiing, hiking, shopping, dining, and the entirety of Aspen’s cultural scene.
Red Mountain, most commonly known as Billionaire Mountain, is perhaps the most infamous of Aspen’s neighborhoods. Situated above the river and amongst the surrounding peaks, Red Mountain is the centerpiece of Aspen luxury real estate, with the majority of the city’s hundred-plus billionaires choosing to live here. This neighborhood offers private properties on large lots.
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Aspen Rental Properties
Much like the Aspen real estate market, the Aspen rental market is one of the most sought-after in the country. From luxurious ski-in/ski-out chalets to stylish downtown condos, Aspen’s rentals complement the town’s blend of beauty and sophistication.
As you’d expect, the short-term market peaks during the winter ski season and summer months, with most short-term rentals available in the Aspen core (downtown) and the ski villages like Snowmass. For long-term renters, Aspen offers charming homes in quiet neighborhoods like the West End or Woody Creek. The city has rules and regulations regarding short-term and long-term rentals, and not all properties are eligible.
Discover Aspen Neighborhoods
The Four Fantastic Aspen Ski Resorts
One ski resort wouldn’t be enough to put Aspen on the map as a world-class destination, so the town built four. It doesn’t matter if you’re an absolute beginner, a modest intermediate, or a pro skier; there is a place for you here.
Aspen Mountain has long been considered the “local’s mountain,” with its long runs and steep descents. It takes a few minutes to walk to the Silver Queen Gondola from just about any point in the historic downtown area. The northerly exposure casts shadows during the heart of winter but keeps the snow cold and velvety soft. Its lift infrastructure just received a boost with the addition of the Hero’s quad, which added 143 acres of terrain in 2023.
Those seeking a more sun-soaked and leisurely day on the slopes will adore the aptly named Buttermilk Mountain, just down the valley from downtown. With broad, perfectly groomed pistes and plenty of Colorado sunshine, the skiing is as soft and comforting as buttermilk pancakes.
Those who have spent years perfecting their craft on the slopes will relish Aspen Highlands. For those seeking snow of the untracked variety, the Highlands Bowl is one of Colorado’s snowiest locales, and freshies are guaranteed if you can swing the 30-minute trek to the summit ridge.
And finally, Snowmass is Aspen’s largest domain, with 4,406 feet of vertical drop and 3,342 acres of terrain.
Experiencing Aspen’s Hiking Trails
Like skiing, the hiking in Aspen ranges from family-friendly to downright extreme. While the Maroon Bells scenic loop is surely Aspen’s most famous—and photographed—hike, there are dozens of trails to explore in the region.
The American Lake Trail is a peaceful alternative to the Maroon Bells, reaching an alpine lake in a pristine and remote valley. The Hunter Creek Trail leaves right from town with 4.8 miles of moderate hiking along the creek. If you want to get high without the huffing and puffing, Independence Pass is home to a number of trails, including the Linkins Lake Trail and the longer Lost Man Loop.
Those with young children need not despair. Aspen is also full of activities that won’t test a child’s limited patience. For starters, the Silver Queen Gondola leaves straight from town and entertains a bird’s-eye view over the entire Roaring Fork Valley. For children with a bit more stamina, the Rio Grande Trail is a relatively flat bike path that follows the Roaring Fork River. Meanwhile, with its preserved mining cabins and infrastructure, Ashcroft Ghost Town is sure to capture the imagination of young children and adults alike.
World-Class Amenities In Aspen
Aspen’s cultural experience rivals that of most major cities. Any cultural dive begins with a tour of the Aspen Art Museum, a masterpiece of Japanese architect Shigeru Ban. Then there’s the historic downtown, which features old-west buildings like the Pitkin County Courthouse and Wheeler Opera House. For a historical perspective, the Wheeler Museum documents the wealthy investor who showered Aspen with many of its most celebrated buildings, like the Hotel Jerome and the aforementioned Opera House.
Live music has defined Aspen since the free-wheeling 60s. Today, summer festivals like the Labor Day Jazz Aspen Snowmass bring massive acts, with Sting, Maroon 5, and Stevie Nicks all performing in recent years.
The scene isn’t limited to pop acts. Each summer, the Aspen Music Festival showcases classical music and offers classes. For true jazz aficionados, Jazz Aspen Snowmass also produces a June festival with more traditional jazz acts. Throughout the year, downtown Aspen is host to the iconic music club Belly Up, which hosts talent on a near-nightly basis during the winter and summer high seasons.
With one life to live, it’s always the right time to look and feel our best. In Aspen, that starts with a visit to any one of dozens of massage therapists, medical spas, and day spas. Providers in Aspen are adept at offering a unique experience to recover amongst the mountains. For example, both the Viceroy at Snowmass and the O2 Aspen Wellness Studio offer an altitude recovery package, combining oxygen therapy with a customized massage to alleviate fatigue and promote deep relaxation.
Shopping & Dining Experiences
Few mountain towns can offer Aspen’s diversity and quality of cuisine, from local eats to multi-course fine dining. Aspen’s most historic and iconic venue, the J-Bar at Hotel Jerome, offers traditional American cuisine and drinks in a beautiful historic setting.
Mawa’s kitchen offers breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner in an unpretentious setting just outside downtown Aspen. Hickory House is a classic spot for family-friendly barbeque where you can get your hands dirty. The other end of the spectrum is Bosq, where Chef Barclay Dodge and his team have earned a Michelin Star for seasonal-inspired fine dining focusing on local farms. The sleek, modern interior complements the contemporary dishes' smooth but elaborate presentation. Foodies rejoice when, for one weekend each summer, Aspen becomes the nation’s culinary hub with the Aspen Food & Wine Classic, going on its 42nd year.
From Chic to Boutique: Aspen Shopping
The Aspen shopping experience is closer to that of Paris or New York than what you’d expect from a small city of 7,000 residents in the middle of the Rocky Mountains. In addition to the requisite outdoor gear shops, you’ll find all the classic luxury designer brands, like Gucci, Prada, Dior, Louis Vuitton, and more. Downtown Aspen turns into a fashion runway during the holidays.
Of course, Aspen is also host to a range of local boutique shops. Many visitors want something more regionally appropriate, like a handmade cowboy hat and some boots. In that case, Wyld Blue curates a selection of Western wear that is sure to please.
On the other hand, you can style out your home with furniture and gifts from stores like Res Ipsa, a local downtown boutique. The vibe is mountain chic, with globally inspired pieces with a luxurious flair.
Buy a Home in Aspen
Aspen, Colorado, isn’t just a place to live—it’s a way of life. And of all Aspen real estate agents, none has a better track record for success than Ryan Schwartz. For more information regarding Aspen homes for sale, Aspen real estate trends, or to list your home with a premier Aspen real estate agent, contact Ryan Schwartz today via phone or email.
