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Teller County

county

Teller County, Colorado, is located west of Pikes Peak and Colorado Springs, characterized by its mountainous terrain and rich mining history. The county's population was approximately 24,710 as of the 2020 Census. Woodland Park is the most populous city, while Cripple Creek serves as the county seat. Teller County offers a blend of small-town charm and access to outdoor recreational activities, making it a desirable location for those seeking a mountain lifestyle. The economy of Teller County is diverse, with key sectors including educational services, health care, retail trade, and tourism. The area's history is deeply rooted in gold mining, particularly the Cripple Creek gold rush of the late 19th century. Today, the county benefits from its proximity to Colorado Springs, with many residents commuting for work while enjoying the quieter, more rural setting of Teller County. Teller County is distinctive for its natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. The Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, Mueller State Park, and numerous trails and reservoirs provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The county's history as a major gold mining area adds to its unique character, attracting visitors interested in exploring its historical sites and scenic byways.

Teller County, Colorado

Overview
Classification
County
FIPS Code
08-119
Country
United States
County
Teller County
Geography
Region
Southern Front Range
Elevation
8,200 ft
Total Area
559 sq mi
Land Area
557 sq mi
Water Area
1.9 sq mi
Latitude
38.88
Longitude
-105.15
Climate
Arid climate with high mountain wind thermals
Notable Features
Pikes Peak · Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument · Mueller State Park · Eleven Mile Reservoir
Neighboring Areas
Douglas County · El Paso County · Fremont County · Park County · Jefferson County
Demographics
Population (2020)
24,710
Est. Population (2026)
25,164
Median Age
52.2
Median Income
$85,361
Poverty Rate
7.61%
Owner-Occupied
82.2%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
The racial makeup of Teller County includes 86.1% White, 0.5% Black or African American, 0.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.9% Asian, 0.0% Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, 1.6% from some other race, and 8.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race comprised 6.9% of the population.
Governance
Government Type
County
Governing Body
Board of County Commissioners
Municipal Services
Administration · Assessor · Clerk & Recorder · Community Development · Human Services · Public Health · Public Works · Sheriff's Office
Economy
Unemployment Rate
3.4%
Economic Profile
Tourism · Residential
Employment Sectors
Educational Services · Health Care & Social Assistance · Retail Trade
Education
Schools
7
Students
1,933
School Districts
Cripple Creek-Victor RE1 School District · Woodland Park RE2 School District
Infrastructure
Transportation
US Highway 24 · State Highway 67 · Gold Belt Scenic Byway
Utilities
Municipal water · Broadband
Major Facilities
Teller County Courthouse · Hospitals in Colorado Springs
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Mueller State Park · Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument · Eleven Mile Reservoir · Rampart Reservoir · Pike National Forest
Parks & Trails
Hiking trails · Biking trails · ATV trails · Off-road trails
History
Founded
1899
Named After
Henry M. Teller, U.S. Senator
Historical Significance
Significant for its role in the Cripple Creek gold rush and subsequent labor struggles; home to well-preserved plant and animal fossils at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument.
Key Events
Cripple Creek Gold Rush · Colorado Labor Wars · Establishment of St. Nicholas Hospital