As you prepare to move cross-country from California to Colorado, there are several things you should know: 1. Coloradans are an active bunch. Here, outdoor living reigns. And with so many activities to choose from – skiing/snowboarding, mountain biking, climbing, fishing, hot air ballooning, rafting, hiking, dog walking, wildlife watching, the list goes on – there aren’t a whole lot of excuses not to go outside and have some fun. With the lowest obesity rate in America (22.6%), it’s easy to see why Coloradans are enjoying a longer life expectancy. 2. Great place for nature, dog, and music lovers. If you’re a lover of any of the above (or all of them), you’ve found the right state. Colorado has diverse natural beauty in the form of mountainous terrain, desert canyons, wide plains, mesas, lush forests and crystal-clear lakes that are all ideal for endless adventures. The state is also very dog-friendly, offering numerous parks and trails perfect for your pup. Lastly, music lovers can enjoy their favorite artists at one of the many indoor and outdoor venues, including one-of-a-kind Red Rocks Amphitheatre. 3. Skiing is huge here. With no less than 28 ski resorts, this state is a pristine powder playground. Though it may not have the most resorts in America, Colorado offers some of the biggest. With more than 42,000 acres of ski runs to choose from, plus countless backcountry spots, there’s no shortage of activities for snowboarders sledders, skiers, and snowmobilers. 4. It’s home to young, educated people. Colorado is full of ambitious, well-educated young people. Only 10% of the population is over the age of 65. Of course, this also means competition is high when it comes to jobs. If you haven’t lined up work yet, it’s a good idea to have some money saved up just in case. (FYI Colorado is also a nerd-friendly state, so no need to worry about unleashing your inner geek.) 5. It’s America’s highest state. In Colorado, the average elevation of 6,800 feet and the lowest point sits at 3,315 feet in Yuma County (which is the highest low elevation of any state in the country), which means you’ll need to make some adjustments. First, make sure you’re properly hydrated. It’s not unusual to experience dehydration during your first few weeks or months here. Wear plenty of sunscreen as you will be closer to the sun and remember that elevation magnifies the effects of alcohol. The higher altitude affects baking as well, so modify recipes accordingly. 6. Weather is moderate year-round. Though local weather varies according to elevation and location, Coloradans typically enjoy temperate weather and mild humidity. Colorado also has some of the highest annual snowfalls of any western state, with Colorado Springs averaging 68 inches (US average is 26). The eastern region may surprise you with its rolling plains and hot summer temperatures, much like its neighbors Kansas and Nebraska. 7. The state produces stars. Maybe it’s the mile-high air or fresh snowmelt water. Whatever it is, Colorado is the birthplace of many famous people. The list includes actors Amy Adams, Tim Allen, and Melissa Benoist; athletes Chauncey Billups, Richard “Goose” Gossage, and Bobby Unser; bands Earth, Wind & Fire, 3OH!3, and The Lumineers; artists/photographers David Burroughs Mattingly, Barry Kooser and John Fielder; and astronauts (to name just a few) Dorothy Metcalf-Lindenburger, Kent Rominger and Scott Carpenter. 8. There are job opportunities galore. Colorado offers amazing opportunities for the ambitious. The state boasts a strong business climate and startup culture, making it one of the best states in which to start a company. The outdoor recreation industry is also booming, which prompted the launch of the Colorado Outdoor Industry Office (OREC), one of only seven such offices in America. Science, tech, engineering, and math (STEM) careers are also plentiful, along with opportunities in healthcare and aerospace. 9. Expect high incomes and higher-than-average cost of living. For the most part, Coloradans have high incomes. However, the state also has an above-average cost of living, and home prices have been on the rise. Compared to many parts of California, however, it is relatively inexpensive to live in many cities here. Colorado is also a flat-tax state (current rate is 4.63% for all households), and property tax rates are low. 10. Marijuana is legal. In 2012, Colorado legalized marijuana, allowing adults 21 years and older to use weed for recreational purposes. Even though it is legal, there are still rules. For instance, some cities don’t sell it, and there are restrictions on where users can consume it. People prefer not to smoke cigarettes here – fewer than 20% of residents smoking tobacco. Though not conclusive, it is interesting to note that crime has fallen since the state legalized possession and smoking of pot. 11. Your vote counts. As a so-called purple or swing state, there have been several closely contested elections between Democrats and Republicans here in recent years. This fact means that every Coloradan’s vote truly counts. If you’re passionate about politics, you’ll be happy to know that most residents take voting seriously here, and voter turnout is one of the highest in the country. 12. The state is a craft beer heaven. Of course, we can’t finish a list about Colorado without mentioning beer. With 235 or so craft breweries, Colorado is a mecca for craft beer aficionados. Top breweries that call Colorado home include New Belgium Brewing Company, Odell Brewing Company, Great Divide, Avery Brewing Company, Dry Dock Brewing Co., Oskar Blues Brewery, Steamworks Brewing Co., Left Hand, Ska Brewing, and Tommyknocker.