Silverton, nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains in Colorado, is a picturesque, historic mining town known for its stunning scenery, rich heritage, and outdoor adventure opportunities. The town boasts a unique blend of small-town charm and breathtaking landscapes, making it a desirable location for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle amidst nature. This article explores the best residential areas in Silverton, highlighting their characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
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Historic Silverton
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The Historic Silverton area preserves the architecture and character of the late 1800s, making it a vibrant center of culture and community engagement. With art galleries, local shops, and restaurants set against the backdrop of majestic mountains, it’s an ideal place for those who appreciate history and culture.
Characteristics of the Historic Silverton
* Culture: Rich mining heritage and art community
* Transportation: Walkable, limited public transport
* Services: Local shops, cafes, grocery stores
* Environment: Charming and culturally rich
Housing Options in the Historic Silverton
Victorian homes, Historic lodges
Average Home Prices in the Historic Silverton
* Buying: $350,000 – $550,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,200/month
Animas Forks
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Animas Forks is a scenic area located just outside Silverton, known for its historic mining ghost town and stunning mountain views. It's perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat and a touch of adventure, as it offers access to numerous hiking trails and outdoor activities.
Characteristics of the Animas Forks
* Culture: Historic mining ghost town
* Transportation: Car recommended, rugged roads
* Services: Very limited, mostly self-sufficient
* Environment: Secluded and picturesque
Housing Options in the Animas Forks
Cabins, Custom-built homes
Average Home Prices in the Animas Forks
* Buying: $300,000 – $450,000
* Renting: $1,200 – $1,800/month
South Silverton
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South Silverton offers a quieter atmosphere while still being close enough to enjoy all the amenities of the town. With easy access to outdoor recreation, this area is popular among families and outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate a more spacious environment.
Characteristics of the South Silverton
* Culture: Outdoor community with family-friendly activities
* Transportation: Dependence on cars, local services available
* Services: Parks, schools, community centers
* Environment: Family-oriented and spacious
Housing Options in the South Silverton
Single-family homes, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the South Silverton
* Buying: $400,000 – $600,000
* Renting: $1,800 – $2,500/month
Red Mountain Pass
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This area is famous for its stunning mountain landscapes and access to outdoor adventure. Ideal for those who enjoy skiing, hiking, and breathtaking views. Living here provides direct access to Colorado’s beautiful wilderness.
Characteristics of the Red Mountain Pass
* Culture: Outdoor sports and adventure lifestyle
* Transportation: Car essential, remote access
* Services: Limited amenities, emphasizes outdoor lifestyle
* Environment: Adventure-focused and scenic
Housing Options in the Red Mountain Pass
Mountain cabins, Available land for building
Average Home Prices in the Red Mountain Pass
* Buying: $350,000 – $500,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,200/month
Silverton Historic District
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The Silverton Historic District is a well-preserved part of town that maintains its classic architecture and historical significance. It provides a unique living experience filled with local history, cultural events, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Characteristics of the Silverton Historic District
* Culture: Cultural events and festivals throughout the year
* Transportation: Walkable with limited public transport
* Services: Cafes, historical sites, local businesses
* Environment: Lively and community-focused
Housing Options in the Silverton Historic District
Restored historic homes, Condos
Average Home Prices in the Silverton Historic District
* Buying: $400,000 – $600,000
* Renting: $1,800 – $2,750/month
Alma Hill
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Alma Hill is a uniquely elevated area offering sweeping views of Silverton and the surrounding mountains. It's ideal for those looking for a more secluded and elevated living experience, while still being a short drive from town.
Characteristics of the Alma Hill
* Culture: Community-driven with an emphasis on nature
* Transportation: Car recommended, close to hiking trails
* Services: Minimal amenities, focus on self-reliance
* Environment: Tranquil and elevated
Housing Options in the Alma Hill
Spacious lots, Modern mountain homes
Average Home Prices in the Alma Hill
* Buying: $350,000 – $500,000
* Renting: $1,400 – $2,000/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Silverton:
The best residential areas in Silverton include Historic Silverton, Animas Forks, South Silverton, Red Mountain Pass, Silverton Historic District, and Alma Hill.
Historic Silverton and the Silverton Historic District offer the most amenities, including local shops, cafes, and community services.
Animas Forks and Alma Hill often have more affordable housing options compared to Historic Silverton and South Silverton.
South Silverton is highly recommended for families due to its spacious environment and proximity to parks and schools.
Home prices in Silverton range from approximately $300,000 to $600,000, depending on the area and housing type.
Silverton is known for hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking, with numerous trails and access to the nearby mountains.
Public transport options are limited in Silverton, making a car essential for most residents.
Silverton has a close-knit community that enjoys cultural events, festivals, and a strong connection to outdoor activities.
Yes, Silverton offers schools for local families, and nearby towns provide additional educational options.
Housing options in Silverton range from historic homes and modern cabins to spacious lots and condos.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Silverton:
Silverton offers a unique blend of historic charm, stunning mountain landscapes, and a vibrant community life. Whether you prefer the cultural richness of the Historic Silverton area, the tranquility of Animas Forks, or the family-friendly environment of South Silverton, this town has a variety of residential options to suit diverse lifestyles. With its emphasis on outdoor activities and a strong sense of community, Silverton is not only a beautiful place to live but also a destination that fosters an engaging and fulfilling lifestyle for all its residents.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.