Colorado Springs is often described as a military town, but that phrase doesn’t fully capture how deeply military presence shapes the local housing market. With multiple major installations, a steady flow of active-duty service members, civilians, and contractors, and a strong veteran population, military activity influences demand, pricing, and neighborhood trends year after year.
For buyers, sellers, and homeowners, understanding this dynamic helps explain why certain areas stay competitive, why some price points move faster than others, and why housing demand here tends to be more resilient than in many other markets.
Colorado Springs Is Anchored by Major Military Installations
Colorado Springs is home to several large military bases that collectively employ tens of thousands of people. These installations include:
Each base contributes to consistent housing demand, but in slightly different ways. Active-duty rotations, permanent change of station (PCS) moves, civilian employment, and contractor positions all feed into the local real estate ecosystem.
Unlike markets driven primarily by one industry, Colorado Springs benefits from diversified military-related demand that continues regardless of broader economic cycles.
PCS Moves Create Predictable Housing Demand
One of the biggest impacts of military presence is the regular cycle of PCS moves. Every year, service members arrive in Colorado Springs on new assignments while others relocate elsewhere.
This creates:
- Ongoing demand for both rentals and purchases
- Seasonal spikes in activity, especially spring and summer
- Faster absorption of entry-level and mid-range housing
Many incoming service members initially rent, but a significant number choose to buy, especially those on longer assignments or returning for a second tour. This steady turnover keeps inventory moving, even when other buyer pools slow down.
VA Loan Usage Shapes Buyer Behavior
The availability of VA loans plays a major role in housing demand. VA financing allows eligible buyers to purchase with no down payment and competitive interest rates, which expands access to homeownership.
Homes that qualify for VA financing often see stronger demand near bases and in neighborhoods popular with military buyers. However, not all properties qualify, particularly some condos or homes with deferred maintenance.
This dynamic influences:
- Which homes sell fastest
- How sellers prepare properties for sale
- Why certain neighborhoods remain consistently competitive
Military buyers tend to be well-qualified, decisive, and timeline-driven, which can shape market behavior in noticeable ways.
Proximity to Bases Matters, but It’s Not Everything
Neighborhoods closer to bases like Fort Carson and Peterson Space Force Base often experience strong demand due to commute convenience. Areas on the east and south sides of Colorado Springs commonly attract military buyers for this reason.
That said, proximity isn’t the only factor. Many service members prioritize:
- School quality
- Newer construction
- Access to amenities
- Lifestyle fit for families
As a result, military demand extends well beyond base-adjacent neighborhoods and influences housing across the entire city.
New Construction and Military Demand Go Hand in Hand
Military presence has helped fuel new construction, particularly on the east side of Colorado Springs. Builders recognize the steady demand created by incoming personnel and design communities with features that appeal to military families.
These often include:
- Predictable HOA structures
- Modern layouts
- Proximity to major roadways
- Access to schools and parks
This consistent buyer pool helps support absorption rates in new developments, even during slower market periods.
Rental Demand Is Strong and Stable
Not every service member buys, and many choose to rent during their first assignment in the area. This creates a reliable rental market, especially for single-family homes, townhomes, and duplexes.
Military-related rental demand tends to favor:
- Clean, well-maintained properties
- Homes that allow pets
- Locations with reasonable commute times
Because assignments have defined timelines, turnover is expected and planned, which keeps rental demand relatively stable compared to purely civilian markets.
Long-Term Stability in the Housing Market
One of the less obvious impacts of military presence is market stability. While Colorado Springs still experiences ups and downs, military demand provides a baseline level of activity that helps soften extremes.
Even during economic uncertainty:
- PCS moves continue
- Civilian defense jobs remain
- Base operations persist
This doesn’t make the market immune to shifts, but it does reduce volatility compared to areas dependent on a single private-sector industry.
Veterans Often Stay After Service
Another important factor is retention. Many service members fall in love with Colorado Springs and choose to stay after retiring or separating from the military.
This creates long-term homeowners who:
- Buy after initial rental periods
- Upgrade homes as families grow
- Remain active in the community
Veteran retention contributes to neighborhood stability, long-term ownership, and consistent resale demand.
Sellers Benefit From Military Buyer Readiness
From a seller perspective, military buyers are often well-prepared. They tend to work with lenders early, understand timelines, and move decisively once under contract.
Homes that are:
- Well-maintained
- Priced accurately
- Move-in ready
often perform well with military buyers, particularly in competitive price ranges.
Infrastructure and Services Grow Alongside Bases
Military presence also drives infrastructure investment. Roads, schools, medical facilities, and commercial development often expand to support base populations.
This investment supports long-term housing demand and reinforces the connection between military activity and neighborhood growth across Colorado Springs.
What Buyers and Sellers Should Keep in Mind
For buyers, military presence means competition in certain segments and seasons. Being prepared, flexible, and informed is key.
For sellers, understanding military timelines and financing options can help position a home more effectively.
For homeowners, it explains why demand often remains strong even when national headlines suggest otherwise.
Final Thoughts
Military presence is one of the most important forces shaping housing demand in Colorado Springs. From steady PCS cycles to long-term veteran retention, it creates a resilient, active market that behaves differently than many other cities.
Understanding this influence helps buyers make smarter decisions, sellers price and prepare more effectively, and homeowners appreciate why demand here tends to endure.
In Colorado Springs, the military doesn’t just support the community. It helps define how the housing market moves, grows, and sustains itself over time.
Colorado Springs Real Estate Blog 
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