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Moving to Empire, Colorado

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Empire, Colorado is a small mountain town located in Clear Creek County in the Rocky Mountains. It is just a short drive from Denver and close to other popular ski resorts in the area. The town has a population of around 800 people and is surrounded by stunning views of the mountains and beautiful pine forests.

The town was founded in 1871, when miners discovered gold in the nearby hills. The Empire Mine became one of the most profitable gold mines in Colorado, and as a result, Empire quickly grew into a bustling mountain town. Although mining operations eventually ceased at the mine, many of Empire’s original buildings remain standing today as testament to its long history.

In addition to its rich mining heritage, Empire also boasts some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities around. With close proximity to National Forest lands, miles of trails for hiking and biking, and several nearby lakes for fishing or boating, there’s something for everyone in Empire. In the winter months, visitors can enjoy skiing or snowboarding at nearby resorts such as Arapahoe Basin Ski Area or Loveland Ski Area.

The downtown area of Empire features quaint shops and restaurants that reflect its unique mountain culture. From vintage stores to art galleries to coffee shops, there’s something for everyone here. There are also several lodging options available throughout town ranging from charming bed & breakfasts to modern hotels and cabins with stunning views of the surrounding mountainside.

Empire is also home to several cultural attractions such as local museums and historical sites like the famous Buffalo Bill Museum which celebrates the life of William F. Cody who lived in this area during his lifetime. The town also hosts several annual festivals including an Oktoberfest celebration that draws thousands from all over Colorado each year!

In short, Empire is an idyllic mountain town that offers something for everyone – whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or simply want to relax surrounded by beautiful scenery! From its rich history to its modern amenities, this quaint little community truly has it all.

Population: 355. Estimated population in July 2024: 339 (-4.5% change)
Males: 188 (53.0%), Females: 167 (47.0%)

Clear Creek County

Zip code: 80438

Demographics

Median resident age: 39.9 years
Median household income: $32,159
Median house value: $137,500

Population by Race

Races in Empire:

  • White Non-Hispanic (92.7%)
  • American Indian (4.2%)
  • Hispanic (3.7%)
  • Two or more races (2.0%)

Ancestries: German (20.3%), Irish (14.4%), United States (9.6%), Italian (9.0%), English (7.3%), Scottish (6.5%).

Elevation: 8614 feet

Land area: 0.3 square miles

Map of Empire, CO

Population by Education

For population 25 years and over in Empire

  • High school or higher: 86.9%
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher: 19.8%
  • Graduate or professional degree: 3.4%
  • Unemployed: 3.6%
  • Mean travel time to work: 26.4 minutes

For population 15 years and over in Empire town

  • Never married: 25.1%
  • Now married: 50.5%
  • Separated: 1.1%
  • Widowed: 1.8%
  • Divorced: 21.5%

0.6% Foreign born

Population change in the 1990s: -58 (-14.0%).

Hospitals

Hospitals/medical centers near Empire:

  • BOULDER COMM HOSP (about 38 miles; BOULDER, CO)
  • CENTENNIAL PEAKS HOSPITAL (about 40 miles; LOUISVILLE, CO)
  • CENTURA HEALTH-AVISTA ADVENTIST HOSP (about 40 miles; LOUISVILLE, CO)

Airports

Airports certified for carrier operations nearest to Empire:

  • BUCKLEY AFB (about 65 miles; AURORA, CO; Abbreviation: BKF)
  • FORT COLLINS-LOVELAND MUNI (about 67 miles; FORT COLLINS/LOVELAND, CO; Abbreviation: FNL)
  • DENVER INTL (about 71 miles; DENVER, CO; Abbreviation: DEN)

Other public-use airports nearest to Empire:

  • GRANBY-GRAND COUNTY (about 28 miles; GRANBY, CO; Abbreviation: GNB)
  • BOULDER MUNI (about 38 miles; BOULDER, CO; Abbreviation: 1V5)
  • JEFFCO (about 41 miles; DENVER, CO; Abbreviation: BJC)

Amtrak station near Empire:

  • 16 miles: FRAISER-WINTER PARK (FRASER, 420 RAILROAD ST.) – Seasonal Station. Services: fully wheelchair accessible, enclosed waiting area, public restrooms, public payphones, full-service food facilities, free short-term parking, free long-term parking, call for taxi service, intercity bus service.

Colleges and Universities

Colleges/universities with over 2000 students nearest to Empire:

  • UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO AT BOULDER (about 32 miles; BOULDER, CO; Full-time enrollment: 25,355)
  • COLORADO SCHOOL OF MINES (about 34 miles; GOLDEN, CO; Full-time enrollment: 3,183)
  • RED ROCKS COMMUNITY COLLEGE (about 38 miles; LAKEWOOD, CO; Full-time enrollment: 3,835)
  • FRONT RANGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE (about 45 miles; WESTMINSTER, CO; Full-time enrollment: 6,858)
  • EMILY GRIFFITH OPPORTUNITY SCHOOL (about 46 miles; DENVER, CO; Full-time enrollment: 3,083)
  • REGIS UNIVERSITY (about 47 miles; DENVER, CO; Full-time enrollment: 5,898)
  • COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY (about 51 miles; Fort Collins, CO; Full-time enrollment: 22,684)

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