2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Paonia, CO vs Cortez, CO

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Highlights
Are people in Cortez older or younger than people in Paonia?
- The Median Age in Cortez is 1.0 years older than in Paonia.

Are housing costs cheaper in Cortez or Paonia?
- Cortez housing costs are 28.8% less expensive than Paonia housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Cortez or Paonia?
- The average commute for residents of Cortez is 9.3 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Paonia.

Things to do in Paonia?
Living in Paonia, CO is like living in a picturesque postcard. The small town of just over 1,500 is nestled among the rolling hills of the North Fork Valley with breathtaking views of Mount Lamborn and the grandiose San Juan Mountains looming in the distance. The locals are friendly and welcoming, making it the perfect place to call home. Here you can find a thriving community with unique shops, restaurants and galleries dotting Main Street. There is never a shortage of outdoor activities to explore such as hiking, biking and fishing on the Gunnison River or simply enjoying nature at its finest at any one of several nearby parks and preserves. Whether you are looking for a peaceful getaway or an active lifestyle, Paonia has something for everyone.

Things to do in Cortez?
Living in Cortez, CO is an incredible experience. From the stunning views of the red rock mesas and snow-capped mountains to the small-town community feel, this area offers something for everyone. With plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy like fishing, camping, horseback riding, and rock climbing, it's a great place to spend time outdoors. The town also boasts a number of historic sites such as Hovenweep National Monument, Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, and Mesa Verde National Park. With so much to do and explore in and around Cortez, it's no wonder why so many choose to call it home!

 Paonia, COCortez, COUnited States
 Population  Unlock8,742329,725,481
 Median Income$53,646  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock37.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$388,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time28.06  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Paonia    3 Reviews

Paonia is Colorado’s best kept secret... amazing food, climate and scenery. Close to ski resorts and big city amenities, but isolated and charming. The town is safe and  More

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I have lived just outside of Paonia for 35 years. The area is pretty, but jobs are scarce. Used to be mostly 'down to earth' farmers and ranchers and coal miners  More

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Over 16 years ago

"Mayberry in the Mountains" (Paonia and surrounding 8 mesas) population 6,600; median housing pricing is $164,207 (2007); average commute is less than 10 minutes;  More

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Reviews for Cortez    6 Reviews

A digital nomad / nature lover's sunny, perfect weather paradise, at half the cost of touristy Durango. Cortez is Colorado's under-the-radar town that's mostly only  More

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I moved out to Cortez, Colorado after a 30 day trip around the US. Of all the places I visited, this was the place I deemed best to move for a multitude of reasons. It  More

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I've live on this area and cannot recommend it to anyone. Cortez and Montezuma county are horrible. School are bad. After meeting several local teachers I am surprised  More

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