When most people think of upscale ski destinations, places like Aspen or Vail in Colorado likely come to mind. However, there’s a new contender for the title of the most luxurious ski town in the U.S., and it’s not located in the same well-known resorts. Telluride, Colorado, has risen to the top, surpassing even Aspen and Vail in terms of luxury real estate prices.
Telluride is a charming town that’s always had a more understated vibe compared to its more famous counterparts. With a population of just over 2,500 people, it has long been known for its small-town atmosphere, quirky locals, and stunning natural beauty. The town has remained relatively under the radar for many years, especially compared to the glitz and glamour of Aspen or Vail, which have been attracting elite visitors for decades.
But that all changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. As travelers began to seek out more remote and less crowded destinations with ample outdoor activities, Telluride’s appeal grew. The town’s mix of mountain skiing, hiking, and biking, along with its stunning landscapes and serene environment, made it the perfect escape for those looking to avoid busy, densely populated cities. It didn’t hurt that Telluride’s Main Street offers a picturesque view, lined with historic buildings and framed by towering mountain peaks.
This newfound attention led to a surge in real estate demand, and consequently, a dramatic rise in home prices. As of December 2024, Telluride became the most expensive ski town in the U.S., with over 38% of real estate listings priced above the $5 million mark. This places it ahead of even Aspen, which ranked second, and Teton Village, Wyoming, home to the renowned Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, which came in third.
According to a report by Realtor.com, these three towns — Telluride, Aspen, and Teton Village — have long been familiar with luxury properties. However, the report highlights just how rare such listings are nationwide. Only 0.6% of all U.S. home listings are priced over $5 million, so the fact that such a large percentage of properties in these ski towns have crossed that threshold shows how exclusive and in-demand they have become.
Telluride’s ascent in the luxury market may be surprising to some, particularly those who’ve always viewed the town as a quieter, more laid-back alternative to the bigger resorts. But for those familiar with Telluride’s real estate trends, it’s not a surprise at all. Over the past few years, the town’s real estate market has been booming, with over $1 billion in home sales annually. The luxury market is expected to continue growing, especially with developments like a ski-in, ski-out Four Seasons resort set to open in 2028.
While Telluride has secured its place at the top, it’s not the only luxury ski town in the U.S. The list compiled by Realtor.com includes other well-known destinations like Aspen, Teton Village, and Vail, as well as Big Sky, Montana, and Park City, Utah. Surprisingly, it also features an East Coast entry, Cashiers, North Carolina, proving that luxurious ski towns can be found beyond the Rockies.
For now, however, Telluride has firmly established itself as the crown jewel of American ski towns, offering a unique blend of luxury, tranquility, and outdoor adventure that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or simply looking to experience the ultimate in mountain living, Telluride promises a one-of-a-kind experience that’s quickly becoming synonymous with high-end, ski-town elegance.
