Colorado

The Centennial State
State flag of Colorado featuring three horizontal stripes of blue and white with a red 'C' containing a gold disk
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Quick Stats
5.8M Population
#21 Rank
1876 Joined
104.1k Area (mi²)
Map
Geographical map showing the rectangular layout of Colorado, known for its high-altitude Rocky Mountain terrain

Seal and Motto
Official seal of Colorado featuring an eye of God within a triangle, a Roman fasces, and heraldic tools symbolizing mining and justice
"Nil Sine Numine"
Additional Information
Abbreviation CO
Motto Origin

Latin for "Nothing without Providence."

Adopted 1861/1876.

Official Website Colorado.gov
Population Growth
Overview

Colorado, the "Centennial State," is a majestic Western U.S. state defined by the soaring peaks of the Rocky Mountains and the expansive high plains. Renowned globally for its world-class skiing, mountain biking, and vibrant outdoor culture, it is a leading center for aerospace technology, renewable energy, and craft brewing today.

Historical Significance

Colorado officially joined the Union on August 1, 1876, exactly 100 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Its early historical era was defined by the drama of the Pike's Peak Gold Rush and the subsequent rise of massive mining empires, which transformed the region from a rugged frontier into a pivotal industrial and transport hub.

Top Cities & Hubs
1

Denver

Population: ~715,000

The "Mile High City," a booming metropolitan hub and state capital located exactly one mile above sea level, famed for its mountain views and world-class museum and dining sectors.

2

Colorado Springs

Population: ~485,000

Located at the base of Pikes Peak, it is a premier center for the U.S. military and aerospace research, home to the Air Force Academy and the iconic Garden of the Gods park.

3

Aurora

Population: ~395,000

A diverse and rapidly growing city adjacent to Denver, known for its extensive public park systems, golf courses, and the massive Anschutz Medical Campus research facility.

4

Fort Collins

Population: ~170,000

Home to Colorado State University, this thriving northern city is a world-renowned leader in the craft brewing industry and is frequently ranked as one of the best places to live.

5

Lakewood

Population: ~160,000

A significant gateway to the Rocky Mountains, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and immediate access to massive mountain parks and the Red Rocks Amphitheatre area.

Neighbors
Wyoming Nebraska Kansas Oklahoma New Mexico Utah Arizona

Region: West

Key Landmarks & Economy
Rocky Mountain National Park: One of the nation's most visited parks, featuring the highest paved road in the U.S. and over 350 miles of spectacular alpine trails.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre: A world-famous open-air music venue naturally carved out of prehistoric sandstone monoliths, offering perfect acoustics and views.
Aerospace Sector: Colorado has the nation's second-largest aerospace economy, serving as a massive hub for satellite manufacturing and space research.
Did You Know?
  • Colorado has more than 50 mountain peaks that exceed 14,000 feet in elevation, famously known by locals as "Fourteeners."
  • The state is so sunny that Denver receives over **300 days of sunshine** per year, more than even Miami or San Diego.
  • The cheeseburger was reportedly trademarked in Denver in 1935 by Louis Ballast at his Humpty Dumpty Drive-In.
Demographics