Boulder, Colorado is one of the 25 most expensive US cities to live in today. In May, a five-bedroom mansion sold for US$14.5 million.
But ask Yuti Gao, who’s pursuing a PhD in Biological Anthropology in one of the universities here, whether it’s worth it to live in Boulder, Colorado and she’ll quickly say yes.
Waking up here also means opening your eyes to some of the most breathtaking mountain views in the country.
From the jagged peaks of the Flatirons to the snow-capped Rocky Mountains stretching along the horizon, the view feels almost routine — but it never gets old.
For Gao, life here is one series of outdoor adventure and mountain-town charm.
“It’s beautiful,” Gao shares. “Compared to all the other places I’ve travelled to in the US, I would say Boulder, Colorado, is a really, really beautiful and livable town.”
Before Gao moved to live in Boulder, Colorado, Gao completed a BS in Anthropology at Sun Yat-sen University and a study abroad programme at the University of California, Los Angeles. Source: Yuti Gao
Life in Boulder Colorado: Enjoying nature and cosy nights in
Living in Boulder, Colorado means weekends often start on a trail.
“We always go hiking as it’s super popular here,” Gao laughs. “In the winter, I like skiing. And when it’s warmer, I love backpacking and camping. It’s really just about being outside and enjoying nature.”
There’s no shortage of trails to choose from. Two local favourites — Arapaho Pass and South Arapaho Peak — start from the Fourth of July Trailhead. The drive itself is rough but it’s a scenic route, filled with alpine views and wildflowers.
Closer to the city, you have the Canyon Loop Trail at Betasso Preserve and the Anne U While Trail. They’re both perfect for a quick morning escape, while the Shanahan Ridge Trail and Mesa Trail to Eldorado Springs offer longer routes.
Gao and her friends at a gathering. Source: Yuti Gao
For those up for a challenge, the Walker Ranch Loop or Canyon and Benjamin Trail Loop are the hikes for you.
But life in Boulder, Colorado, is not all about the outdoors. Gao also finds joy in cosy nights with friends.
“Recently, I’ve been hosting small gatherings at my place,” she says. “I’ll make hot pot, and then set up a simple karaoke system — just a projector and a microphone — and we’ll sing, play cards, and hang out. It’s our way to relax after a busy week.”
For Gao, life in Boulder, Colorado, is a balance between adventure and community — filled with outdoor adventures and laughter-filled nights that make this little city feel like home.
Gao received a total of 11 grants, fellowships, and awards at the University of Colorado, Boulder. Source: Yuti Gao
All you need to know about living in Boulder: Food, friends, and transportation
Now, life in Boulder Colorado, isn’t all about hiking and game nights. In a way, you’ll be secluded in a small city in the #8 biggest city in the US.
For international students, especially those arriving in the US for the first time, the early months can bring unexpected challenges — from food to finances to finding a sense of belonging.
“I didn’t know anyone in the US before coming here,” Gao recalls. “You don’t have family or friends nearby, so the first year can feel lonely.”
She remembers missing home, especially when it came to food.
“Food was a big challenge for me,” she shares. “I wasn’t used to eating pizza, burgers, or hot dogs all the time. For Chinese students, that’s really hard.”
Over time, she found comfort in cooking her own meals, and eventually discovered a few local spots with Asian flavours — like Zoe Ma Ma, a Taiwanese restaurant in downtown Boulder.
Finances can also take some getting used to. Boulder’s cost of living is higher than that of most Colorado towns, with rent topping US$1,000 a month.
“As a PhD student, I get a stipend of around US$2,800 to US$2,900 a month, which I think is manageable,” Gao explains. “Because I cook most of my meals and don’t spend on other things. I can save a little each month.”
She admits that prices seem high at first, but after travelling to other US cities, she’s come to appreciate Boulder’s balance of cost and quality of life.
Gao is studying the primate microbiome with metagenomics. Source: Yuti Gao
Transportation, on the other hand, is one of Boulder’s strengths.
“Boulder is famous for biking,” Gao says. “There are bike lanes everywhere, and it’s easy to get around without a car — unlike many US cities.”
Fun fact: Students at the University of Colorado, Boulder, receive a free bus pass, making commuting across the city — even to nearby Denver — convenient and affordable.
“I bought a car in my second year for road trips, but I rarely drive in Boulder,” Gao laughs.
Despite the initial hurdles, Gao says that those challenges helped her build independence and a sense of community.
“In my first year, I met a group of friends who became like family,” she shares. “We lived together, cooked together, and now, four years later, we’re still close. It’s not always easy in the beginning, but Boulder really does become a second home.”
