Teller County sits at the heart of the Pikes Peak region, spanning 559 square miles of mountain terrain on the western slope of America's Mountain. With a population of about 25,000, it's one of Colorado's smaller counties by population but one of the richest in natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and small-town character.
The county seat is Cripple Creek, but Woodland Park is the largest community and the commercial hub. From historic mining towns to quiet unincorporated communities, Teller County offers a range of mountain living options — each with its own character and price point.
Communities of Teller County
Woodland Park
The "City Above the Clouds" and Teller County's commercial center. Woodland Park has the county's best schools, most amenities, and closest access to Colorado Springs (25 min). The main hub for shopping, dining, and services. Home prices range from $400K to $900K+.
Living in Woodland Park →Divide
A small unincorporated community at the junction of Highways 24 and 67, about 10 minutes west of Woodland Park. More affordable than WP with larger lots and a rural mountain feel. Gateway to Mueller State Park and The Crags. Home prices from $350K to $600K.
Divide Guide →Florissant
A tiny community 20 minutes west of Woodland Park, known for the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. The most affordable area in Teller County with acreage available. Land and homes start in the low $300Ks. Quiet, rural, and off the beaten path.
Florissant Guide →Cripple Creek
A historic gold mining town turned casino destination. Cripple Creek is Teller County's seat of government and home to limited-stakes gaming, the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine tour, and the Butte Theater. Unique character, but limited services. About 25 minutes south of Woodland Park.
Victor
Cripple Creek's sister city, Victor is a quieter, more authentic mining town with dirt streets, historic buildings, and a time-capsule atmosphere. Home to the active Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine. Very affordable real estate, but remote and limited services.
Green Mountain Falls
Technically in El Paso County but on the border of Teller County along Ute Pass, this charming village is known for its gazebo-on-the-lake, art galleries, and creative community. More affordable than Woodland Park with unique character. 15 minutes east of WP.
Green Mountain Falls Guide →Why Teller County?
Teller County appeals to a specific type of person — someone who values space, nature, and community over convenience and urban amenities. Here's what draws people to this part of Colorado:
- Low property taxes. Teller County has some of the lowest property tax rates in Colorado — roughly 0.55%, compared to the national average of 1.1%. This saves homeowners thousands per year.
- No state estate tax. Colorado doesn't collect estate or inheritance tax, making Teller County attractive for retirees planning their legacy.
- Outdoor recreation. Mueller State Park, The Crags, Gold Medal fishing, and 55+ miles of trails are all within the county.
- Proximity to Colorado Springs. Woodland Park is just 25 minutes from a city of 500,000+ with all the amenities — hospitals, shopping, airport, entertainment.
- Affordable mountain living. Compared to Summit County (Breckenridge), Eagle County (Vail), or even the Boulder/Nederland area, Teller County is significantly more affordable.
- Genuine community. With 25,000 people in the whole county, you know your neighbors. Community events, strong schools, and a shared love of mountain life create real connections.
Real Estate in Teller County
Market Snapshot by Area
- Woodland Park: Median ~$565K. The most options and best amenities. City water/sewer available in town.
- Divide: Median ~$450K. Larger lots, more rural. Well and septic common.
- Florissant: Median ~$375K. Most affordable with acreage. Very rural.
- Cripple Creek/Victor: Median ~$300-350K. Historic properties, limited inventory. Remote feel.
- Green Mountain Falls: Median ~$425K. Charming, unique homes. Small lots.
See our full Woodland Park market report for current listings and trends.
County Services & Government
Teller County government provides essential services including the Sheriff's Office, road maintenance, planning and zoning, and the Clerk & Recorder's office. Key services:
- Emergency services: Teller County Sheriff, Woodland Park Police, multiple volunteer fire departments, and Ute Pass Regional Health Service District (ambulance).
- Medical: Pikes Peak Regional Hospital in Woodland Park (ER and clinic). Major hospitals and specialists in Colorado Springs.
- Schools: Woodland Park RE-2 School District serves the county. School guide →
- Library: Rampart Library District with branches in Woodland Park, Divide, and Florissant.
- Roads: County maintains rural roads. Snow plowing priorities follow main roads first. Private roads may require shared plowing arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Teller County's incorporated towns are Woodland Park (the largest at ~8,000 people), Cripple Creek (the county seat, ~1,200), and Victor (~400). Unincorporated communities include Divide, Florissant, and several small rural areas. Green Mountain Falls sits on the border between Teller and El Paso counties. Woodland Park is the commercial hub with the most services and amenities.
Teller County is excellent for people who value mountain living, outdoor recreation, low taxes, and genuine community. The trade-offs are limited shopping and dining options (though Woodland Park covers the basics well) and a 25-minute drive to Colorado Springs for anything beyond everyday needs. Property taxes are among the lowest in Colorado, schools are solid, and the quality of life is hard to beat.
Teller County property tax rates are approximately 0.55%, which is roughly half the national average of 1.1%. This is one of the lowest rates in Colorado and a significant draw for homeowners and retirees. On a $565,000 home, you'd pay roughly $3,100 per year in property taxes — compared to over $6,200 at the national average rate.
Woodland Park, Teller County's largest town, is about 25 minutes (18 miles) from Colorado Springs via Highway 24 through Ute Pass. Cripple Creek is about 45 minutes from the Springs. Divide and Florissant are 35-40 minutes. The drive to Colorado Springs is scenic through mountain terrain and is the daily commute for many Teller County residents.
Explore Teller County Communities
Learn more about each area.
Find Your Place in Teller County
From in-town Woodland Park to rural Florissant acreage — Jonathan knows every corner of Teller County real estate.