Moving to the Steel City of Pueblo? The Ultimate Guide to Pueblo’s Neighborhoods and Schools

Pueblo, Colorado—often called the “Steel City” or “Home of Heroes”—is a city of distinct characters, where history and modern growth sit side-by-side.

Pueblo is primarily served by two districts: Pueblo School District 60 (D60), which covers the city core, and Pueblo County School District 70 (D70), which serves the surrounding county and the massive suburb of Pueblo West.

Below is a list of Pueblo’s most popular neighborhoods as well as the schools in that specific neighborhood.

1. University Park & North Vista Highlands

If you want a modern, “up-and-coming” feel, this is it. Located on the north side of town near Colorado State University Pueblo (CSU Pueblo), these neighborhoods offer newer construction and easy access to the Walking Stick Golf Course.

• The Vibe: Professional, clean, and very convenient for commuters heading north to Colorado Springs.
• Local Schools:
  • Villa Bella Expeditionary (K-8): A highly-rated option known for its hands-on, project-based learning.
  • Belmont Elementary: An established neighborhood favorite.

2. Aberdeen

For those who love historic charm, Aberdeen is the “crown jewel” of Pueblo. Think tree-lined streets, classic architecture, and a central location near the Pueblo Zoo and City Park.

• The Vibe: Established, historic, and walkable. It feels like a small town within a city.
• Local Schools:
  • Heritage Elementary: Well-loved by local parents for its community feel.
  • The Connect Charter School: Often cited as one of the best middle schools in the area, drawing students from all over the city.

3. Pueblo West

Technically its own metropolitan district just west of the city, Pueblo West is where you go if you want land. It’s common to find 1-acre lots here with stunning views of Pikes Peak.

• The Vibe: Suburban/Rural hybrid. It’s perfect for people with boats or RVs, as it sits right next to Lake Pueblo State Park.
• Local Schools (District 70):
  • Cedar Ridge Elementary: Frequently rated as one of the top elementary schools in the county.
  • Pueblo West High School:Known for strong athletics and a robust International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

4. Belmont

Belmont is a staple of North Pueblo. It features a mix of mid-century homes and newer apartments, making it a popular choice for young families and college students.

• The Vibe: Suburban and practical. It’s close to everything—the mall, the university, and Highway 50.
• Local Schools:
  • Fountain International Magnet School: A standout choice for parents looking for a global-focused curriculum (PYP/IB).

5. Bessemer

Schools in the Area

Education in Bessemer is primarily served by Pueblo School District 60 (D60).¹⁰ Several schools are located directly within or immediately adjacent to the neighborhood:

Quick Tips for Your Move

• The District Divide: Generally, District 70 covers Pueblo West and the rural “Mesa” areas, while District 60 covers the city proper. Many parents utilize Pueblo’s “School of Choice” policy, which allows you to apply for schools outside your immediate zone if there is space.
• The Food: You haven’t truly moved here until you’ve had a Slopper (a burger smothered in local green chile).
• Outdoor Access: Don’t miss the Arkansas Riverwalk downtown—it’s the heart of the city’s summer events and dining.

Pros And Cons Of Living In Pueblo

Pueblo is often called the “real” Colorado because it trades the high-end glitz of Denver and Aspen for a gritty, hardworking, and deeply authentic culture. However, like any city with a “Steel City” heritage, it has some significant trade-offs.

Here are the honest pros and cons of living in Pueblo in 2025:

The Pros: Why People Love It

• Affordability (The “Pueblo Discount”): This is the biggest draw. You can often find homes for $100k–$200k less than in Colorado Springs. For many, it’s the only place on the Front Range where the “American Dream” of homeownership is still achievable for average earners.
• The Climate: Pueblo is warmer and drier than the rest of the state. It boasts over 300 days of sunshine a year. While Denver is shoveling a foot of snow, Pueblo’s snow often melts by noon the next day.
• Outdoor Recreation: You are minutes away from Lake Pueblo State Park, one of the most popular fishing and boating destinations in Colorado. The city also features the Arkansas Riverwalk, which is perfect for summer evening strolls and local festivals.
• Authentic Culture & Food: Pueblo isn’t a “cookie-cutter” suburb. It has a rich Hispanic and Italian heritage. The local food scene is legendary—specifically the Pueblo Green Chile, which locals will tell you is far superior to Hatch, New Mexico’s version.
• Minimal Traffic: You can get almost anywhere in the city in 15 minutes or less. The “rush hour” here is practically non-existent compared to the I-25 crawl in Denver.

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The Cons: The Hard Truths

• Crime Rates: Statistically, Pueblo has struggled with higher-than-average crime rates for years, particularly regarding property crime and auto theft. While much of this is concentrated in specific areas, it is a frequent concern for residents.
• Job Market: While the healthcare and education sectors are stable (Parkview Medical Center and CSU Pueblo are major employers), the overall job market is less diverse than in larger cities. Many professionals choose to live in Pueblo for the cost of living but commute 45 minutes north to Colorado Springs.
• School Performance: While there are standout schools (like Villa Bella or Fountain International), the district-wide averages for test scores and funding often lag behind wealthier Colorado districts.
• The “Brown” Landscape: If you are moving to Colorado for lush green forests, Pueblo might be a shock. It is high-desert terrain—expect lots of tumbleweeds, cacti, and brown summer grass. You have to drive about an hour west to hit the heavy pine forests of the mountains.
• Wind Storms: Spring in Pueblo can be incredibly windy. Dust storms aren’t uncommon, and the gusts can be strong enough to knock over patio furniture or make outdoor activities unpleasant for a few weeks in April and May.