Grand Junction, CO Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Grand Junction, CO: What You Need to Know

Grand Junction is located along the Colorado River’s confluence with the Gunnison River. It’s the seat of Mesa County in western Colorado. With 20 wineries in the area, it’s considered the state’s wine country.

Job Opportunities in Grand Junction, CO

Colorado’s Grand Valley has traditionally been a fruit-growing region. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the first grapevines were planted in the area, which proved to be ideal for growing red-wine varietals. In addition to agriculture, the local economy also boasts of thriving aerospace, advanced manufacturing, energy, technology, and tourism industries. Major employers in Grand Junction and Mesa County include Mesa County Valley School District, St. Mary’s Hospital, Colorado Mesa University, VA Western Colorado, Family Health West, and West Star Aviation.

Cost of Living in Grand Junction, CO

The fast growth of Grand Junction (population: 63,597) is driving living expenses up. The city’s cost of living rate and housing costs are 8.4% and 18.5% higher than the national average, respectively. The median gross rent is $935. On the positive, food cost is 21.7% lower than the national average. The Centennial State charges a flat income tax rate of 4.63%. The statewide sales tax of 2.90% is among the lowest in the country, but counties and cities charge additional sales taxes.

How Did Grand Junction, CO Get its Name?

The city was first called Ute, then West Denver before it was renamed Grand Junction. The name stems from its location at the junction of the Gunnison and Colorado Rivers. The word “grand” refers to the Colorado River, historically known as the Grand River. Grand Junction was incorporated in 1882. 

What are Grand Junction’s Popular Attractions?

The Colorado National Monument’s red rock spires are a major draw for people visiting the state. The Rim Rock Drive, spanning 23 miles through the National Monument, offers breathtaking views. The park is a great place for camping, hiking, and bird watching. The Independence Monument, a 450-foot sandstone pillar within the park, is a must-see. Another famous attraction is Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-top mountain. Grand Mesa has more than 300 alpine lakes at elevations over 11,000 feet. Tourists come for some fishing, hiking, and biking in the summer, and skiing in the winter. 

What’s Unique About Grand Junction, CO?

Colorado is not widely associated with country music, which makes Country Jam unique. The annual music festival in Grand Junction features dozens of bands and singers performing on two stages amid a gorgeous red-rock backdrop. The three-day event is Colorado’s largest country music and camping festival. It has been attracting thousands of country fans from across the country since 1992.