COLORADO, HERE WE COME – FROM MINING TO AVIATION TO BIOTECH – THE STATE”S ECONOMY IS BOOMING
Colorado: Where Mountains Meet Manufacturing (and My Portfolio, Too!)
Ah, Colorado! The very name conjures images of majestic peaks, crisp mountain air, and perhaps a touch of that pioneering spirit. But as a commercial real estate broker, I see something even more exhilarating: a vibrant industrial landscape, ripe with opportunity. It’s not just about the beauty here; it’s about the bottom line, especially if you’re keen on the industrial, manufacturing, and production sectors. And let me tell you, this state has a fascinating story unfolding.
Colorado’s population has been on a tear, growing impressively over the last decade. Denver, our capital, is a bustling metropolis of nearly 600,000, anchoring a metro area that boasts a cool 2.8 million residents. Just next door, Aurora adds another 366,000 vibrant people to the mix. More people, more demand – it’s a simple equation that drives commercial realty.
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty: the industrial heart of Colorado. This isn’t just about silicon chips in Silicon Valley; here, we’re talking about a surprisingly diverse economy. Agriculture plays a huge role – think cattle, corn, and wheat. And yes, gold and silver mining are still very much alive and kicking, adding to the state’s natural resource bounty, which includes oil, natural gas, and timber. These traditional sectors feed a consistent demand for robust industrial space, from processing plants to distribution centers.
But for the forward-thinking industrial buyer, where should you stake your claim?
Denver: The Golden Goose of Industrial Stability
If you’re looking for a market that’s resilient and diversified, Denver is your go-to. I’ve seen it weather storms and emerge stronger, largely thanks to its balanced mix of tech, healthcare, and logistics. As of mid-2025, the Denver industrial market is holding steady. We’re seeing roughly $11.59 per square foot for average asking rents and sales prices around $175 per square foot. The state is actively courting domestic industrial growth, making investments here even more attractive. Look for properties with solid highway access; the demand for distribution space is always humming.
Colorado Springs: Where High-Tech Meets High Value
Want a specialized play? Set your sights on Colorado Springs. This city is a rapidly growing hub for aerospace, defense, and cybersecurity – sectors that demand cutting-edge, secure industrial and manufacturing facilities. This isn’t your grandfather’s warehouse space; we’re talking precision engineering and advanced production. The market here is quite robust. Industrial lease rates hover around $12.00 to $16.00 per square foot, often reflecting the higher-tech nature of the spaces. This market offers compelling opportunities for investors looking for stability in a niche sector with a strong government and private industry backbone.
Boulder: The Biotech Darling with a Premium Tag
Now, for those with a taste for the cutting edge, Boulder is simply irresistible. This is our life sciences crown jewel, consistently ranking among the top global hubs for R&D and venture capital. The Denver-Boulder life sciences sector saw a phenomenal 28.4% jump in VC funding from 2023 to 2024, which is just astounding. When it comes to specialized lab and biotech industrial space, you’re looking at a different beast entirely. While general industrial spaces in Boulder might lease for around $14.00 to $15.00 per square foot (for spaces that fit a “life science” type property), true lab-ready facilities will command a premium. We’re talking about properties designed for innovation, with adaptable layouts and a focus on collaboration. Think of it as investing in the future of medicine and technology – it’s a high-stakes, high-reward game. The Fitzsimons Innovation Community in Aurora, a short hop from Denver, is a prime example of this ecosystem expanding, with companies like RefinedScience planting their flags there.
In summary, Colorado’s diverse economy means diverse opportunities for industrial investors. Whether you prefer the steady hum of a generalized market in Denver, the specialized whir of defense contractors in Colorado Springs, or the buzzing energy of biotech startups in Boulder, this state has a place for your portfolio. It’s a dynamic, exciting market, and frankly, it makes my job a whole lot more fascinating.
For more information on available industrial and manufacturing properties across these dynamic Colorado markets, explore our comprehensive Colorado properties listings here.
Curious about the latest trends impacting the Denver industrial market? Dive into the Q2 2025 Denver Industrial Market Report from Avison Young. For a deeper dive into the flourishing life sciences sector and its real estate implications, check out the insightful reports from firms like Savills. You can also track the pulse of venture capital funding in Colorado’s life sciences sector through the Colorado BioScience Association.
