Manitou Springs
Artsy mountain town at the foot of Pikes Peak — mineral springs, galleries, and the Incline
Why People Move Here
Manitou Springs has been a tourist destination since 1872, when visitors came for the mineral springs the Ute had been using for centuries. Today it's an art colony, outdoor playground, and funky mountain town rolled into one — the Incline (2,744 steps), Pikes Peak Cog Railway, Garden of the Gods, and a Main Street lined with galleries and brewpubs. At ~5,400 residents, it's the smallest community on our list with the biggest personality.
Key Statistics
Data sourced from census records, school district reports, and local transit authorities.
Commute Times
School Districts
Manitou Springs School District 14
B+- Manitou Springs HS — small school (~400 students), strong arts and outdoor programs
- Manitou Springs Elementary and Middle
- One of Colorado's smallest independent school districts
FAQ — Manitou Springs
What are the school ratings in Manitou Springs?
Manitou Springs is served by Manitou Springs School District 14, rated B+ by Niche. It is one of Colorado’s smallest independent school districts with just one elementary, one middle, and one high school. Manitou Springs High School enrolls approximately 400 students and has a strong arts and outdoor program focus. Small class sizes are a defining feature of the district.
How long is the commute from Manitou Springs to Colorado Springs?
Manitou Springs is approximately 6 miles west of Colorado Springs via US-24. Off-peak drive time to downtown Colorado Springs is 10–15 minutes. Denver is 75–85 minutes north on I-25 and is not a practical daily commute. Mountain Metro Route 36 provides limited bus service to Colorado Springs; otherwise the area is car-dependent.
What is the median home price in Manitou Springs?
As of 2026, the median home value in Manitou Springs ranges from $538K (Zillow average value) to $675K (Redfin median sale price, up 15% year-over-year). Realtor.com lists $735K. This is a low-volume market with significant price volatility. Historic homes dominate the inventory — many are pre-1940 with character but may require renovation.
What outdoor recreation is available in Manitou Springs?
The Manitou Incline is one of Colorado’s most famous hikes — 2,744 steps gaining 2,000 feet in one mile. The Pikes Peak Cog Railway (newly rebuilt in 2021) offers a scenic 9-mile ride to the 14,115-foot summit. Garden of the Gods is adjacent with 1,367 acres of red sandstone formations and free admission. Red Rock Canyon Open Space provides 1,474 acres for hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. Cave of the Winds offers guided tours, a Via Ferrata, and zip lines.
What are the crime statistics in Manitou Springs?
Manitou Springs reports low violent crime consistent with a small town of approximately 5,400 residents. Property crime is moderate, with car break-ins near trailheads being the primary reported concern. The 2M+ annual visitors to Garden of the Gods, the Incline, and the Cog Railway contribute to tourism-related petty crime.
What dining options are available in Manitou Springs?
Manitou Springs has a concentrated dining scene along walkable Manitou Avenue: • The Cliff House dining room — historic hotel, upscale dining • Savelli’s Pizza — local favorite since 1996 • Sahara Cafe — Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine • Adam’s Mountain Cafe — brunch institution The town has 3+ breweries and taprooms including Manitou Brewing Company and Kinfolk Brewing. Multiple cafes line Manitou Avenue.
What healthcare facilities are near Manitou Springs?
UCHealth Memorial Hospital in Colorado Springs is the nearest major hospital, approximately 10 minutes east on US-24. Colorado Springs’ full hospital and specialist network is accessible within a 10-minute drive.
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