Summary
- • Colorado has 58 mountain peaks over 14,000 feet high
- • The state's highest point is Mount Elbert at 14,440 feet
- • Colorado's lowest point is 3,315 feet at the Arikaree River
- • The state covers 104,094 square miles
- • Colorado has four National Parks
- • The state has 41 state parks
- • Colorado's official state animal is the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep
- • The state tree is the Colorado Blue Spruce
- • Colorado is home to over 960 species of wildlife
- • The state flower is the Rocky Mountain Columbine
- • Colorado has over 300 days of sunshine per year
- • The state's average annual precipitation is 17 inches
- • Denver holds the record for the greatest temperature change in 24 hours: 76°F
- • Colorado's population in 2020 was 5,773,714
- • The median age in Colorado is 36.9 years
With 58 mountain peaks soaring over 14,000 feet, its no wonder Colorado is the ultimate playground for adventurers. But beyond the breathtaking heights, the Centennial State boasts a diverse landscape of statistics as vast as its Rocky Mountain vistas. From the towering Mount Elbert to the tranquil Arikaree River, Colorados tapestry includes four National Parks, 41 state parks, and over 960 species of wildlife. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of Colorado statistics, from sunshine-filled days to Super Bowl victories, as we uncover the numbers that make this state a true gem of the Rockies.
Climate
- Colorado has over 300 days of sunshine per year
- The state's average annual precipitation is 17 inches
- Denver holds the record for the greatest temperature change in 24 hours: 76°F
Interpretation
With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Colorado sure knows how to put a smile on Mother Nature's face, but don't let that sunny disposition fool you—the state's average annual precipitation of 17 inches keeps things grounded. And if you thought Denver was all about moderation, think again, as the city proudly flaunts its impressive record for the greatest temperature swing in 24 hours, a whopping 76°F. Clearly, Colorado doesn't just bring the heat, it also knows how to keep things unpredictably cool.
Demographics
- Colorado's population in 2020 was 5,773,714
- The median age in Colorado is 36.9 years
- Denver is the most populous city with 727,211 residents
- Colorado's population grew by 14.8% from 2010 to 2020
Interpretation
Colorado: Where mountain vistas and youthful energy collide. With a burgeoning population now standing at 5,773,714, the Centennial State boasts a median age of 36.9 years—a sweet spot where wisdom meets vitality. Leading the pack is Denver, a bustling metropolis playing host to 727,211 residents who embody the state's growth spurt of 14.8% in the past decade. Whether scaling peaks or embarking on new frontiers in tech and culture, Colorado revels in being a portrait of dynamic evolution set against a stunning natural backdrop.
Economy
- Colorado's GDP in 2020 was $391.3 billion
- The state's unemployment rate in 2021 was 5.4%
- Colorado's median household income is $72,331
- The state's minimum wage is $12.56 per hour as of 2022
Interpretation
As the numbers paint a colorful portrait of Colorado's economic landscape, it is evident that the state is like a finely-tuned engine with a few cylinders firing stronger than others. With a GDP soaring to $391.3 billion in 2020 and a median household income of $72,331, the state appears to be cruising down the financial highway. However, the road does have a few bumps, as the unemployment rate of 5.4% in 2021 serves as a reminder that not all sectors are operating at full throttle. While the minimum wage of $12.56 per hour as of 2022 may put some financial strain on individuals, the overall economic picture suggests that Colorado's engine is ultimately revving in the right direction, at its own pace.
Education
- The state's literacy rate is 90.5%
- Colorado has 1,914 public schools
- There are 31 public universities and colleges in Colorado
- The University of Colorado Boulder is the largest university with over 35,000 students
Interpretation
Colorado boasts a formidable literacy rate of 90.5%, proving that the Rocky Mountain state is not just a haven for outdoor enthusiasts but also a hub of intellectual prowess. With 1,914 public schools and 31 universities and colleges, Coloradans have ample opportunities to expand their knowledge horizons. And with over 35,000 students, the University of Colorado Boulder stands tall as the beacon of higher education in the Centennial State, shaping the minds of tomorrow's leaders amidst the scenic splendor of the Rockies.
Energy
- Colorado's renewable energy sector employs over 62,000 people
- The state ranks 8th in the nation for installed solar capacity
- Colorado has over 2,000 wind turbines
- The state produces about 3% of the nation's crude oil
- Colorado has over 50,000 active oil and gas wells
Interpretation
Colorado's energy landscape is like a buffet menu with options ranging from the sustainable spread of renewable energy to the hearty servings of traditional fossil fuels. With over 62,000 employees dancing to the tunes of wind and solar energy, one might think the state is all about the clean, green dream. However, among the 2,000 wind turbines, Colorado also hosts a bustling party of over 50,000 oil and gas wells, contributing its own flavor to the mix. This balanced approach sees Colorado not just riding the wave of renewables but also keeping a seat at the table of more conventional energy sources.
Geography
- Colorado has 58 mountain peaks over 14,000 feet high
- The state's highest point is Mount Elbert at 14,440 feet
- Colorado's lowest point is 3,315 feet at the Arikaree River
- The state covers 104,094 square miles
- Colorado has four National Parks
- The state has 41 state parks
Interpretation
Colorado's statistics read like a resume for an overachieving state trying to make the other states jealous. With 58 mountain peaks towering over 14,000 feet, Colorado is basically the tall, rugged athlete you can't help but admire. Mount Elbert struts as the state's highest peak, casually peering down at everyone from 14,440 feet. And let's not forget about the Arikaree River, the underdog at 3,315 feet, just doing its best. Covering a sprawling 104,094 square miles, Colorado apparently believes in 'go big or go home.' With four National Parks and 41 state parks, it's clear that Colorado is the event planner of the nature world, offering a variety of scenic spots for everyone to enjoy. Oh, Colorado, always showing off, but hey, we can't blame you for being so darn impressive.
History
- Colorado became the 38th state on August 1, 1876
- The Colorado Gold Rush began in 1858
- The Ancestral Puebloans inhabited Mesa Verde from 600 to 1300 CE
Interpretation
Colorado, a state steeped in a rich tapestry of history, has seen its fair share of rapid transformations over the years. From the excitement and chaos of the Gold Rush in 1858 to the enduring legacy of the Ancestral Puebloans at Mesa Verde, these milestones serve as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit across centuries. Like a fine wine aging gracefully, Colorado has evolved from its early days as the 38th state in 1876, showcasing a blend of tradition and progress that continues to shape its vibrant identity today.
Industry
- Colorado produces over 1.8 million barrels of craft beer annually
- The state is the largest producer of beer by volume in the US
- Colorado's aerospace industry employs over 30,000 people
- The state is home to over 500 aerospace companies
- Colorado's agricultural industry contributes $47 billion to the state's economy
- The state produces more than 90% of the nation's millet crop
- Colorado has 66 operating marijuana dispensaries per 100,000 residents
- The marijuana industry generated $387.4 million in tax revenue for Colorado in 2020
- Colorado's tech industry employs over 146,000 people
- The state has over 10,000 technology companies
Interpretation
Colorado, the state that knows how to reach new heights both literally and figuratively. From crafting the perfect brew to conquering the skies through its aerospace sector, Colorado is a powerhouse of innovation and ingenuity. Not to mention its agricultural prowess and maverick approach to marijuana regulation, which provides a steady stream of revenue while keeping the Rocky Mountain vibes high. With a tech industry that's as vast as its mountain peaks, Colorado is truly a state that's soaring above the rest.
Infrastructure
- The state's transportation network includes 956 miles of Interstate highways
- Colorado has 13 major airports, including Denver International Airport
- The state has over 2,800 miles of railroad tracks
- Colorado's water infrastructure includes 1,953 dams
- The state has over 23,000 miles of trails
Interpretation
Colorado's impressive transportation network is like a well-oiled machine, with more miles of Interstate highways than some people have Facebook friends. With 13 major airports, including the bustling Denver International Airport, it's clear that Coloradans never have to worry about running out of runways. And let's not forget about the state's extensive railroad tracks, dams, and trails – proving that in Colorado, they don't just build things, they build them big. So whether you prefer wheels, wings, tracks, or hiking boots, the Centennial State has you covered.
Law Enforcement
- Colorado's prison population is approximately 17,441
- The state has 272 law enforcement agencies
- Colorado's violent crime rate is 381 per 100,000 inhabitants
- The state has 5 federal prisons
Interpretation
Colorado seems to have a unique approach to balancing out the scales of justice - with a population of 17,441 residing in prisons, it also boasts an impressive 272 law enforcement agencies. This could explain the state's relatively high violent crime rate of 381 per 100,000 inhabitants. With 5 federal prisons also in the mix, it appears that Colorado is playing a high-stakes game of cops and robbers on a grand scale.
Laws
- Colorado legalized recreational marijuana in 2012
- The state has a flat income tax rate of 4.55%
- Colorado was the first state to legalize abortion in 1967
- The state allows for both open and concealed carry of firearms
Interpretation
If Colorado were a person, it would be the ultimate embodiment of "live and let live." It lets you light up a joint while carrying a concealed firearm, all while paying a flat income tax rate with a relaxed smile. From blazing trails in legalized recreational marijuana and abortion rights to embracing gun enthusiasts with open arms, Colorado proves that it's a state that doesn't just think outside the box – it blazes its own trail through the Rocky Mountains, sparking conversations and controversies along the way.
Nature
- Colorado's official state animal is the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep
- The state tree is the Colorado Blue Spruce
- Colorado is home to over 960 species of wildlife
- The state flower is the Rocky Mountain Columbine
Interpretation
In the colorful tapestry of Colorado's natural beauty, the official symbols proudly reflect the diverse and vibrant ecosystem that thrives within its borders. From the majestic Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep to the resilient Colorado Blue Spruce, and the delicate Rocky Mountain Columbine, Colorado's official flora and fauna embody the spirit of strength, adaptability, and grace that defines this splendid state. With over 960 species of wildlife calling Colorado home, it is no wonder that the Centennial State is a true haven for both nature enthusiasts and biodiversity enthusiasts alike.
Sports
- The Denver Broncos have won 3 Super Bowl championships
- The Colorado Avalanche have won 3 Stanley Cup championships
- The Colorado Rockies joined Major League Baseball as an expansion team in 1993
- Coors Field in Denver sits at 5,200 feet above sea level, the highest elevation of any MLB stadium
Interpretation
In the eternally high-altitude state of Colorado, where towering peaks and championship titles reign supreme, the sports scene is as breathtaking as its scenery. The Denver Broncos and the Colorado Avalanche have each seized victory three times, carving their names in history alongside the majestic Rockies that cradle them. Meanwhile, the Colorado Rockies, which emerged onto the Major League Baseball stage in 1993, have been swinging for the fences ever since. And with Coors Field perched at a dizzying 5,200 feet above sea level, it's no wonder that even home runs seem to take flight in the rarefied air of the Mile High City.
Tourism
- Colorado is home to 26 ski resorts
- The state welcomed 84.7 million visitors in 2019
- Rocky Mountain National Park is the third most visited national park in the US
- The Royal Gorge Bridge is America's highest suspension bridge
