Oak Creek is a small town of almost 900 people located about 21 miles south of and about a 25 minute drive from Steamboat Springs via highway 131. The proximity to Steamboat and lower cost of living makes it an appealing place to live for those wanting the benefits of being close to a world-class ski resort with smaller town quirks and pace of life.
Oak Creek's economy is transitioning from its historical reliance on mining and agriculture to diversified sectors including renewables, construction, tourism, and transportation. The 2025 Comprehensive Plan update emphasizes economic diversification and job creation through infrastructure improvements, including grants for sustainable projects that support over 100 new positions in construction and energy research. These changes signal a forward-looking job market that draws families and professionals seeking reliable employment close to home.
Oak Creek is a great place to live for outdoor recreation lovers. The nearby Stagecoach State Park is perfect for fishing, boating, and rafting on its 780-acre reservoir. Routt National Forest and Flattops Wilderness with nearby access is great for hunting, camping, hiking, biking, and winter recreation like backcountry skiing and snowmobiling. Steamboat Resort is about a 30-minute drive for amazing alpine skiing. The historic downtown Oak Creek provides shops, a few local eateries, and community events, creating a walkable core for daily needs and social gatherings. Yampa Valley Regional Airport, just 20 miles north in Hayden, features direct flights to 17 different airports on six airlines in winter and summer, plus nonstop service to Denver, Houston, and Los Angeles on United and Southwest in the summer.
Oak Creek is a quirky Colorado town full of character. Most roads in town are dirt, and there is no natural gas - most homes have propane tanks. Many of the homes are older built in the early 1900s on top of cellar basements. Buyers looking in Oak Creek expect to find older single-family homes starting around $400,000 depending on condition. Sierra View is a newer neighborhood in Oak Creek with nice homes starting in the $700ks. Rural areas surrounding Oak Creek will feature different quality of homes on parcels 5 acres and up, typically on rolling and sometimes steep hillside land. Particular attention to utilities and water should be paid during due diligence when purchasing these properties.
Find out more at www.townofoakcreek.com