Why People Move to Vail
Vail attracts full-time residents for reasons beyond skiing. The pedestrian-friendly village, world-class dining, Gore Range hiking, Gold Medal fishing on the Eagle River, cultural events at the Ford Amphitheater, and a growing year-round community create a lifestyle that's hard to match anywhere. Remote work has dramatically increased the full-time population since 2020, bringing new energy, restaurants, and services to what was once primarily a seasonal community.
Vail Real Estate Market
Average home prices in Vail proper are approximately $3.2 million, making it one of Colorado's most expensive markets. However, the broader Vail Valley offers ranges for every budget: East Vail condos from $500K-$800K, West Vail townhomes from $1M-$2M, Vail Village/Lionshead from $1.5M-$8M+. The surrounding communities of Avon ($1.4M avg), Edwards ($1.1M avg), and Eagle ($850K avg) provide more affordable alternatives with easy Vail access.
Neighborhoods and Where to Live
Vail Village: The heart of Vail with luxury condos, ski access, and walkable restaurants/shops. Best for those wanting pure resort living. Lionshead: More modern than Vail Village, family-friendly, with gondola access. East Vail: Quiet, secluded, older homes with stunning Gore Range views. Popular with families wanting space. West Vail: More residential feel with larger homes, good for families with dogs. Intermountain: Between Vail Village and West Vail, a mix of older condos and newer homes.
Cost of Living
Vail's cost of living is approximately 80-100% above the national average, driven primarily by housing. Groceries are 20-30% higher, dining out 30-50% higher, and services (plumbers, electricians) 40-60% higher due to labor shortages. Property taxes in Eagle County are moderate by Colorado standards (approximately 0.5% of assessed value). HOA fees can add $500-$2,000+/month for condos. The tradeoff: no state income tax deduction cap and access to one of the world's best outdoor playgrounds.
Financing Your Vail Home
Most Vail purchases require jumbo loans. Cedar Home Loans has a Vail office and knows the local market — from condotel classifications in Lionshead to construction loans for custom homes in East Vail. We offer jumbo loans, construction-to-permanent financing, and refinancing for existing Vail homeowners.
Updated . Figures are general guidance and vary by lender, property and borrower. Call us for numbers that fit your situation.
