The keys to Grand Junction...
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2/25/2019
I've lived in GJ 2-times for a total of 4-years, and after looking 'very diligently' around the West/Rockies for a place to live/work, planning to retire there. Here are the keys to GJ; 1) don't rely on the local boom/bust economy, 2) don't expect housing prices to steadily increase, 3) don't expect to avoid local problems (crime, homeless) if you wade into them, 4) live in a house with some elbow room (1+ acres), 5) be able to enjoy what GJ has to offer, and 6) live in an area with reliable high speed internet.
Let me explain:
1) don't rely on the local boom/bust economy - rely on the local boom/bust economy at your peril, go look at the job stats. If you must go local, pad your local income with 'passive income', (yes it's a real thing). The key is to 'participate' in the economy by bringing work from outside, say teleworker or distributed business owner. GJ needs your positive presence and innovation. Not your laziness, bad attitude and hand out, already too many of these everywhere.
2) don't expect housing prices to steadily increase - bought a modest home ($150K) in 2006, still recovering from 2008. But, I still have the home as a rental and starting to make a few $$. Next home will be in the $450K range. The GJ housing debacle has no solution, suck it up and enjoy living in one of the best places in the U.S.
3) don't expect to avoid local problems (crime, homeless) if you wade into them - if you're looking for trouble, you'll find it in GJ. From drugs and murder to corrupt politicians, gangs and homelessness. If you're not looking for trouble, GJ has a great way of putting on a happy face. Go to the right places (downtown, mall, restaurants, hiking/biking trails, etc.) and events (farmers market, concerts/shows, sports, etc.), at the right time (not late night) and GJ's seedy underbelly is neatly tucked away.
4) live in a house with some elbow room (1+ acres) - having some space around your house solves a few problems. You're living outside of town, criminals don't frequent rural areas for obvious reasons and you don't 'have' to interact with your neighbors if you don't want to. 'Reside' on your terms, not the city's.
5) be able to enjoy what GJ has to offer - if you can solve the problems GJ throws at you, you're living in a truly stunning location full of great people from all over the country and a few 'internationals'. If you need a scout or guide in your life, GJ is not for you, GJ is just a good place to visit. For capable adventurers (backpackers, hikers, bikers, hunters, pilots, cowboys, etc.), GJ is an outdoor paradise with a few mortal perks like theatre, fine-ish dining and some great bars when you need to lick your adventurers wounds.
6) live in an area with reliable high speed internet - don't forget this one! It's on you to verify this. Remember the closest big city is 4-hours away.
7) BONUS! GJ has a towered airport with regular commercial flights to/from big cities. If you must go see how the other half is suffering, hop on a plane. ;~)
Stephen | Divide, CO