Complete Guide to Moving to Grand Junction, CO

Grand Junction, Colorado is a thriving city of approximately 66,000 residents located in Mesa County on Colorado's Western Slope. Nestled at the confluence of the Colorado and Gunnison Rivers, Grand Junction offers an unbeatable combination of stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, affordable Western Colorado living, and small-city charm. Known for its year-round sunshine (300+ days annually), world-class mountain biking, wine country, and proximity to spectacular red rock landscapes, Grand Junction provides exceptional quality of life for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and retirees.

This comprehensive moving guide will help you navigate every aspect of your move to Grand Junction, from finding the perfect neighborhood to understanding local utilities, schools, community resources, and secure storage solutions for your belongings.

Quick Facts:

3% lower cost of living than national average
300+ days of sunshine annually
Gateway to world-class outdoor recreation
Elevation: 4,586 feet above sea level
Largest city on Colorado's Western Slope
Growing wine and craft beer industry
Proximity to national parks and monuments

1. WHY CHOOSE GRAND JUNCTION?

Outdoor Recreation Paradise

Grand Junction is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, offering year-round access to world-class recreation just minutes from town. The city serves as the gateway to some of the American West's most spectacular landscapes and outdoor opportunities:

Mountain Biking - World-renowned trails including Kokopelli, Tabeguache, and Lunch Loops
Hiking and Trail Running - Hundreds of miles of trails in varying terrain
Rock Climbing - World-class routes in Colorado National Monument and beyond
River Recreation - Rafting, kayaking, and fishing on the Colorado River
Skiing and Snowboarding - Powderhorn Resort 35 minutes away
National Parks - Colorado National Monument, Arches, Canyonlands nearby

Year-Round Sunshine and Mild Climate

Grand Junction enjoys 300+ days of sunshine annually, making it one of the sunniest places in Colorado. The mild climate features:

Four distinct seasons with relatively mild winters
Low humidity year-round
Average winter temperatures: 20-40°F
Average summer temperatures: 55-95°F
Low annual precipitation (8-9 inches)
Year-round outdoor recreation opportunities

Affordable Colorado Living

Grand Junction offers a cost of living approximately 3% below the national average, making it one of the most affordable places to live in Colorado. While Front Range cities like Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins have become increasingly expensive, Grand Junction provides:

Housing costs 15% lower than Colorado state average
Significantly lower than Denver metro area
Ability to afford larger homes with more land
Lower property taxes than many Colorado communities
Reasonable cost of living with access to Colorado amenities

Growing Wine and Culinary Scene

Grand Junction sits at the heart of Colorado's wine country, with the Grand Valley and Palisade areas producing award-winning wines. The region offers:

20+ wineries within 30 minutes
Colorado's premier wine-growing region
Farm-to-table dining experiences
Thriving craft beer scene
Annual wine festivals and events
Fruit orchards and U-pick farms

Strategic Western Slope Location

As the largest city on Colorado's Western Slope, Grand Junction serves as the regional hub for:

Healthcare and medical services
Shopping and retail
Employment and business
Education and higher learning
Cultural events and entertainment

The city's location also provides access to:

Utah's "Mighty 5" national parks (Arches, Canyonlands nearby)
World-class skiing in Aspen, Telluride, Vail (2-3 hours)
Denver metro area (4-5 hours)
Salt Lake City (5 hours)

2. NEIGHBORHOODS AND COMMUNITIES IN GRAND JUNCTION

Grand Junction features diverse neighborhoods ranging from historic downtown areas to new developments with mountain views.

Redlands - Upscale Living with Views

Redlands is Grand Junction's premier neighborhood, offering upscale homes with stunning Colorado National Monument views.

Redlands Features:

Large custom homes on spacious lots
Spectacular red rock and monument views
Proximity to Colorado National Monument entrance
Higher property values and appreciation
Excellent schools
Golf course and country club
Quiet, established neighborhood

Redlands attracts affluent families, retirees, and professionals seeking premium housing with natural beauty.

Orchard Mesa - Affordable Family Living

Orchard Mesa offers affordable housing options with a family-friendly atmosphere south of the Colorado River.

Orchard Mesa Highlights:

Affordable single-family homes
Larger lots compared to in-town properties
Family-oriented community
Growing commercial development
Access to schools and parks
Mix of established and newer neighborhoods
Good value for first-time buyers

Orchard Mesa appeals to families and first-time buyers seeking affordable housing with space.

Downtown Grand Junction - Urban Living

Downtown Grand Junction offers walkable urban living with arts, dining, and entertainment.

Downtown Features:

Historic homes and modern condos
Walking distance to restaurants, breweries, and shops
Art galleries and cultural venues
Farmers markets and community events
Main Street revitalization
Mix of residential and commercial
Urban convenience

Downtown attracts young professionals, empty nesters, and anyone seeking walkable urban lifestyle.

Fruita - Mountain Biking Mecca

Fruita (adjacent to Grand Junction) is world-renowned for mountain biking and outdoor recreation.

Fruita Highlights:

World-class mountain biking trails (18 Road, Kokopelli)
Small-town atmosphere
Affordable housing options
Strong community identity
Outdoor recreation culture
Growing dining and brewery scene
Colorado National Monument proximity

Fruita is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, mountain bikers, and those seeking small-town Colorado living.

Other Notable Grand Junction Neighborhoods

Clifton - Eastern suburb with good schools and family neighborhoods

Little Park - Newer development with modern homes and amenities

Lincoln Park - Historic neighborhood near downtown with character homes

Pear Park - Established area with mature trees and quiet streets

3. COST OF LIVING IN GRAND JUNCTION

Grand Junction's cost of living is approximately 3% lower than the national average, making it one of Colorado's most affordable cities.

Cost of Living Comparison (National Average = 100)

Overall Cost of Living: 97 (3% lower than national average)
Housing: 105 (5% higher than national average but 15% lower than Colorado average)
Groceries: 100 (equal to national average)
Utilities: 85 (15% lower than national average)
Transportation: 95 (5% lower than national average)
Healthcare: 92 (8% lower than national average)

What These Numbers Mean for You

While housing costs are slightly above the national average, Grand Junction is significantly more affordable than Front Range Colorado cities. Denver's cost of living is approximately 20% higher than Grand Junction, with housing costs nearly 50% higher. This means you can enjoy Colorado's outdoor lifestyle and amenities without the crushing expenses of metro areas.

Lower utilities and healthcare costs provide additional savings, and the lack of congestion means less time and money spent commuting.

Monthly Budget Estimates

Single Person Renter - Approximately $4,200/month

Housing (rent): $1,200
Groceries: $650
Utilities: $295
Transportation: $410
Healthcare: $115
Other expenses: $1,530

Family of Four (Homeowner) - Approximately $8,100/month

Housing (mortgage, taxes, insurance): $2,100
Groceries: $1,295
Utilities: $640
Transportation: $890
Healthcare: $365
Other expenses: $2,810

These estimates reflect Grand Junction's moderate cost of living while accounting for Western Colorado lifestyle.

4. HOUSING MARKET OVERVIEW

The Grand Junction Rental Market

Grand Junction offers a diverse rental market with options from downtown apartments to single-family homes.

Average Rental Rates by Size:

Studio/1-Bedroom Apartments: $900 - $1,150/month
2-Bedroom Apartments/Homes: $1,200 - $1,550/month
3-Bedroom Homes: $1,600 - $2,100/month
4-Bedroom Homes: $2,100 - $2,700/month

What's Typically Included:
Most rental properties in Grand Junction include water, sewer, and trash collection in base rent. Tenants typically pay separately for electricity, natural gas, and internet. Many properties offer mountain views and outdoor access.

Pet-Friendly Options:
Pet-friendly rentals are widely available throughout Grand Junction. Most require a pet deposit ($200-$500) and may charge monthly pet rent ($25-$75 per pet). Given the outdoor lifestyle, many rentals welcome pets.

Home Buying in Grand Junction

Grand Junction's housing market offers strong value compared to Front Range Colorado cities, with steady demand from those seeking affordable Colorado living.

Median Home Prices: $385,000 - $415,000

Price Ranges by Neighborhood:

Starter homes and Orchard Mesa: $275,000 - $375,000
Mid-range family homes: $375,000 - $525,000
Redlands and premium areas: $525,000 - $800,000+
New construction: $425,000 - $650,000
Luxury properties: $800,000+

Home Types Available:

Single-family detached homes with yards
Ranch-style homes on larger lots
Two-story mountain contemporary designs
New construction with modern features
Condos and townhomes
Properties with acreage and mountain views

Property Taxes in Grand Junction

Colorado has relatively moderate property taxes compared to many states.

Effective Tax Rate: 0.5% - 0.6% of assessed home value

Example: On a $400,000 home, annual property taxes typically run $2,000 - $2,400

This translates to approximately $167 - $200 per month in property taxes.

Important Note:
Colorado assesses property taxes based on a percentage of actual value (assessed value), with residential properties assessed at 6.765% of actual value (as of 2024). This system can be complex but generally results in moderate tax burdens.

5. SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION

Mesa County Valley School District 51

Mesa County Valley School District 51 serves Grand Junction and surrounding areas, educating approximately 21,000 students across 40+ schools.

District Structure:

Elementary Schools (K-5)
Middle Schools (6-8)
High Schools (9-12)
Alternative and charter schools

Notable Schools:

Central High School - Grand Junction's original high school with strong traditions
Grand Junction High School - Comprehensive programs and athletics
Palisade High School - Excellent academics and award-winning programs
Fruita Monument High School - Growing school with strong community support

District Highlights:

Comprehensive academic programs
Advanced Placement (AP) courses
Career and Technical Education pathways
Strong athletics and activities
Music and arts programs
Special education services
Dual enrollment with Colorado Mesa University

Private and Alternative Education

Grand Junction offers several private school options:

Faith-based schools (Catholic, Christian)
Montessori programs
Charter schools with specialized focus
Homeschooling support networks

Higher Education

Colorado Mesa University (CMU)

Public four-year university in Grand Junction
Approximately 10,000 students
Bachelor's and master's degree programs
Strong programs in business, nursing, kinesiology
NCAA Division II athletics
Beautiful campus with mountain views
Affordable in-state tuition

Western Colorado Community College

Two-year degrees and certificates
Transfer agreements with four-year universities
Workforce development programs
Affordable community college option

6. EMPLOYMENT AND ECONOMY

Economic Overview

Grand Junction serves as the economic hub of Colorado's Western Slope, with a diversified economy spanning healthcare, education, energy, tourism, and agriculture.

Economic Indicators:

Median household income: $58,500
Regional employment center for Western Colorado
Growing healthcare and education sectors
Tourism and outdoor recreation economy
Agricultural heritage with wine industry growth

Major Employers in Grand Junction

Healthcare:

St. Mary's Medical Center - Largest hospital on Western Slope
Community Hospital - Full-service medical facility
Medical clinics and specialty practices
Regional healthcare hub

Education:

Colorado Mesa University - Major employer
Mesa County Valley School District 51 - Large employer
Private schools

Government:

Mesa County government
City of Grand Junction
Federal agencies (BLM, Forest Service, National Park Service)

Energy:

Oil and gas companies
Renewable energy development
Energy services

Retail and Hospitality:

Major retail centers
Hotels and tourism services
Restaurants and breweries
Outdoor recreation businesses

Agriculture and Wine:

Fruit orchards (peaches, apples, cherries)
Wineries and vineyards
Agricultural operations

Growing Industries

Outdoor Recreation - Guiding, retail, tourism growing rapidly
Wine and Agritourism - Palisade wine country attracting visitors
Remote Work - Increasing number of remote professionals choosing Grand Junction
Healthcare - Regional medical hub serving Western Colorado
Renewable Energy - Solar and wind development

Remote Work Opportunities

Grand Junction has become increasingly popular with remote workers seeking:

Affordable cost of living compared to Front Range
Outstanding outdoor recreation access
Reliable high-speed internet
Year-round pleasant climate
Less congestion and traffic
Strong sense of community

7. TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

Driving and Highway Access

Grand Junction is a car-oriented community with good highway access for regional travel.

Major Routes:

Interstate 70 - East-west route to Denver and Utah
US Highway 50 - Route to Montrose and south
Highway 141 - Scenic route to Moab and southwest Colorado
12th Street - Main commercial corridor
North Avenue - Major thoroughfare

Commute Times:

Within Grand Junction: 10-20 minutes to most locations
To Fruita: 15 minutes
To Palisade: 15 minutes
To Denver: 4-5 hours via I-70
To Moab, Utah: 1.5 hours
To Aspen: 2.5 hours

Traffic Conditions:
Grand Junction experiences minimal traffic congestion. Main corridors can see moderate traffic during rush hours, but delays are rare. Winter driving on I-70 east toward Denver requires winter tires/chains and weather awareness.

Public Transportation

Grand Valley Transit (GVT)

Local bus service throughout Grand Junction
Routes connecting residential areas to downtown and shopping
Affordable fares
Limited evening and weekend service

Air Travel

Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT)

Commercial service to Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Dallas
United, American, Allegiant airlines
Car rentals available on-site
Convenient alternative to driving to Denver
Growing service and routes

Biking and Walking

Grand Junction is increasingly bike-friendly with extensive trail systems:

Connected trail system - 30+ miles of paved paths
Riverfront Trail - Along Colorado River
Mountain biking - World-class singletrack minutes from town
Bike lanes - Growing network on main roads
Walkable downtown - Pedestrian-friendly Main Street

However, a personal vehicle is still essential for most daily activities and accessing recreation areas.

8. SELF-STORAGE SOLUTIONS IN GRAND JUNCTION

Why Storage Matters During Your Move

Moving to Grand Junction involves numerous logistics, and having secure, convenient storage can make your transition significantly smoother. Whether you need temporary storage during your move, long-term solutions for seasonal outdoor gear, or a place to keep business inventory, quality self-storage is an essential resource.

Common Storage Needs During Relocation:

Temporary storage between closing dates or lease terms
Decluttering your home for sale or showing
Storing furniture that won't fit in your new space
Keeping seasonal outdoor gear organized (skis, bikes, camping equipment)
Securing business inventory or equipment
Protecting vehicles, boats, RVs, or trailers
Creating space during home renovations

Choose 10 Federal Storage - Grand Junction's Premier Storage Solution

When it comes to storing your valuable belongings in Grand Junction, 10 Federal Storage stands out as the clear choice for quality, security, and customer service.

Why 10 Federal Storage?

State-of-the-Art Security Features:

24/7 video surveillance monitoring all areas of the facility
Individual unit alarms for added protection
Secure gated access with personalized entry codes
Well-lit facilities for safety during early morning or evening access
Professional on-site management during business hours
Regular security patrols

Climate-Controlled Units Available:

Grand Junction's high desert climate features temperature extremes and low humidity. Climate-controlled units protect your sensitive belongings from temperature fluctuations and dry conditions, preventing damage to:

Wood furniture and antiques
Electronics and appliances
Important documents and photos
Musical instruments
Clothing and fabrics
Art and collectibles

Flexible Unit Sizes:

10 Federal Storage offers a wide range of unit sizes to match your specific needs:

Small units (5x5, 5x10) - Perfect for seasonal gear, small furniture, or business files
Medium units (10x10, 10x15) - Ideal for one-bedroom apartment or office contents
Large units (10x20, 10x30) - Suitable for multi-bedroom homes or business inventory
Vehicle storage - Protect your car, boat, RV, motorcycle, or outdoor recreation vehicles

Convenient Access Hours:

Extended access hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM daily
Seven days a week availability
No appointments necessary
Drive-up units for easy loading and unloading

Month-to-Month Flexibility:

No long-term commitments required
Month-to-month rental agreements
Easy online payment options
Flexible upgrade or downsize options as your needs change

Competitive Pricing:
10 Federal Storage offers competitive rates with no hidden fees. Special promotions are frequently available for new customers, including:

First month free specials
Move-in discounts
Military and senior discounts

Convenient Location:
Strategically located in Grand Junction with easy access from I-70 and main corridors, 10 Federal Storage is convenient whether you're moving across town or from out of state.

Customer-Focused Service:
What truly sets 10 Federal Storage apart is the commitment to customer satisfaction:

Knowledgeable staff help you select the right unit size
Clean, well-maintained facilities you can trust
Responsive management addresses any concerns quickly
Transparent pricing with no surprise fees
Helpful moving tips and resources

Contact 10 Federal Storage Today

Ready to secure storage for your Grand Junction move? Contact 10 Federal Storage to:

Tour the facility and see available units
Get a personalized quote based on your needs
Ask questions about security, access, and amenities
Reserve your unit before your move date
Learn about current promotions and discounts

Rent your unit here or call to speak with a storage specialist who can help you choose the perfect solution for your relocation needs.

9. UTILITIES AND SERVICES

Setting up utilities is a crucial step in your move to Grand Junction. Here's everything you need to know about connecting essential services.

Electric Service

Provider: Xcel Energy
Phone: 1-800-895-4999
Website: www.xcelenergy.com

Xcel Energy provides electric service to Grand Junction. Schedule service setup at least 3-5 business days before moving in to ensure power is active when you arrive.

Average Monthly Costs: $90 - $130 (varies by season, home size, and usage; lower than national average due to mild climate)

Tips for Managing Electric Costs:

Schedule service setup in advance
Take advantage of Colorado's abundant sunshine with energy-efficient practices
Use programmable thermostats
Consider solar panels (excellent solar resource in Grand Junction)

Natural Gas Service

Provider: Atmos Energy
Phone: 1-888-286-6700
Website: www.atmosenergy.com

Atmos Energy provides natural gas service for heating and cooking in Grand Junction.

Average Monthly Costs: $30 - $90 (higher in winter, minimal in summer)

Water and Sewer Services

Provider: City of Grand Junction Utilities
Phone: (970) 244-1600
Website: www.gjcity.org

Service Setup:

Contact Utilities Department to establish service
Bring photo ID and proof of residence
Security deposit may be required
Bills issued monthly

Average Monthly Costs: $50 - $75 for water and sewer combined

Trash Collection and Recycling

Provider: Various private companies

Grand Junction uses private waste haulers. Common providers include:

Waste Management
Alpine Waste & Recycling
Other local services

Residents choose and contract directly with a waste hauler. Services typically include weekly trash pickup and recycling collection.

Internet and Cable Television

Grand Junction residents have multiple options for internet and television services.

Available Providers:

Xfinity (Comcast)

Cable internet with high speeds
Cable television packages
Bundled services available

CenturyLink (Brightspeed)

DSL and fiber internet where available
Varying speed tiers

Rise Broadband

Fixed wireless internet
Available in areas without cable/fiber

Satellite Options:

DISH Network
DIRECTV
Starlink (growing availability)

Internet Speed Recommendations:

Basic browsing: 25-50 Mbps
Streaming HD video: 50-100 Mbps
Multiple users: 100-300 Mbps
Heavy usage/gaming/remote work: 300+ Mbps

10. HEALTHCARE FACILITIES IN GRAND JUNCTION

Hospitals and Emergency Care

St. Mary's Medical Center
Address: 2635 N 7th Street, Grand Junction, CO 81501
Phone: (970) 298-2273

Largest hospital on Colorado's Western Slope
24/7 Level II Trauma Center
Comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services
Surgical services including robotics
Heart and vascular center
Cancer center
Maternity and women's services
Regional medical hub

Community Hospital
Address: 2021 N 12th Street, Grand Junction, CO 81501
Phone: (970) 242-0920

Full-service acute care hospital
24/7 emergency department
Surgical services
Maternity care
Imaging and laboratory
Rehabilitation services

Urgent Care

Several urgent care facilities serve Grand Junction:

Rocky Mountain Urgent Care & Family Medicine
Community Hospital Urgent Care
St. Mary's Urgent Care
Walk-in clinics throughout the area

Specialized Care

As the regional medical hub, Grand Junction offers comprehensive specialty care:

Cardiology and heart care
Orthopedics and sports medicine
Cancer treatment
Women's health
Pediatrics
Mental health services
Physical therapy and rehabilitation

Primary Care

Grand Junction has numerous primary care physicians, pediatricians, and family practitioners accepting new patients.

Healthcare Costs

Healthcare in Grand Junction is approximately 8% less expensive than the national average, providing good value for medical services, prescriptions, and dental care.

11. RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT

Outdoor Recreation

Colorado National Monument

Spectacular red rock canyons and formations
Scenic drives and viewpoints
Hiking trails for all abilities
Rock climbing routes
Wildlife viewing
Just minutes from Grand Junction

Mountain Biking

Kokopelli Trail System - 142-mile epic trail to Moab
Tabeguache Trail - High-altitude singletrack
Lunch Loops - Technical trails near town
18 Road/Fruita Trails - World-class riding
Hundreds of miles of trails for all skill levels

River Recreation

Rafting and kayaking on Colorado River
Stand-up paddleboarding
Fishing for trout and warmwater species
Riverfront parks and trails

Winter Sports

Powderhorn Mountain Resort - Skiing and snowboarding (35 minutes)
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
Access to world-class resorts (Aspen, Telluride, Vail 2-3 hours)

Wine Country

Palisade and Grand Valley Wine Region

20+ wineries and tasting rooms
Award-winning Colorado wines
Wine festivals and events
Farm-to-table dining
Fruit orchards and U-pick farms
Scenic vineyard landscapes

Arts and Culture

Downtown Arts District

Art galleries and studios
First Friday Art Walk
Avalon Theatre - historic venue for films and performances
Museums and cultural centers

Museums and Attractions

Museum of the West
Cross Orchards Historic Site
Dinosaur Journey Museum

Events and Festivals

Colorado Mountain Winefest - Annual wine celebration
Palisade Peach Festival - Celebrating local agriculture
Grand Junction Off-Road - Mountain bike festival
Farmers markets - Weekly throughout summer
Concerts, art shows, and community events year-round

Craft Beer Scene

Numerous local breweries and taprooms
Craft beer culture
Brewery tours and tastings

Shopping and Dining

Shopping:

Mesa Mall - Regional shopping center
Downtown boutiques and shops
Outdoor recreation retailers
Farmers markets and local goods

Dining:

Farm-to-table restaurants
Wine country dining
Brewpubs and taprooms
Diverse cuisine options
Local favorites and chains

12. COMPLETE MOVING CHECKLIST

Use this comprehensive timeline to organize your move to Grand Junction and ensure nothing is forgotten.

8 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Research and Planning:

Research Grand Junction neighborhoods using this guide
Determine your housing budget based on cost of living information
Begin searching for rental properties or homes for sale
Research school options if you have children
Get quotes from at least three moving companies
Decide whether to hire movers or rent a truck
Create a comprehensive moving budget including all expenses
Begin decluttering - donate, sell, or discard items you don't need
Research altitude adjustment if moving from lower elevation

6 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Secure Housing:

Finalize rental lease agreement or home purchase
Pay deposits and complete required paperwork
Get copies of your lease or closing documents
Take photos of your new home's condition before move-in
Measure rooms to plan furniture placement

Book Services:

Reserve moving company or rental truck
Get confirmation in writing with dates and costs
Purchase moving insurance if needed
Reserve storage unit with 10 Federal Storage if needed

Employment and Schools:

Notify current employer of your move if changing jobs
Begin job search in Grand Junction area if needed
Contact Mesa County Valley School District 51 about enrollment
Request school records transfer

Begin Packing:

Purchase or gather packing supplies (boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers)
Start packing non-essential items (off-season clothing, books, decorations)
Label all boxes clearly with contents and destination room
Create an inventory list of packed items

4 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Address Changes and Utilities:

Submit change of address with USPS (can be done online)
Update address with employers, banks, and credit card companies
Contact Xcel Energy to schedule electric service (1-800-895-4999)
Contact Atmos Energy for gas service (1-888-286-6700)
Contact Grand Junction Utilities for water/sewer ((970) 244-1600)
Research and select trash/recycling service provider
Schedule internet and cable installation
Update address with insurance companies (auto, health, life, home/renters)
Update vehicle registration and driver's license (after move)

Healthcare Transitions:

Schedule final appointments with current doctors and dentists
Request medical and dental records transfer
Transfer prescriptions to a Grand Junction pharmacy
Research new healthcare providers in Grand Junction
Update health insurance with new address

Financial Matters:

Notify banks and credit unions of address change
Update billing addresses for all accounts
Notify IRS of address change if necessary
Update address for any investments or retirement accounts

Continue Packing:

Pack more non-essential rooms (guest rooms, storage areas)
Keep packing materials organized and accessible
Update inventory list as you pack

2 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Confirm Services:

Confirm utility connection dates for move-in day
Confirm internet/cable installation appointment
Confirm moving company reservation with date and time
Verify storage unit reservation with 10 Federal Storage if applicable

Final Arrangements:

Arrange for school enrollment in Mesa County Valley School District 51
Submit required enrollment documents and records
Plan for pet transportation if applicable
Notify current landlord or prepare current home for closing
Schedule final walkthrough of new home/apartment

Pack Remaining Items:

Pack all but essential items
Label all boxes clearly by room and contents
Pack a "first day" box with essentials
Prepare appliances for moving (clean, disconnect, secure)

Clean and Prepare:

Deep clean current residence
Make minor repairs if required by lease
Take photos of current home's condition after cleaning

1 WEEK BEFORE MOVING

Final Preparations:

Pack essentials box (toiletries, medications, phone chargers, important documents)
Set aside items that will travel with you (valuables, medications, important papers)
Confirm moving day weather forecast (check for winter weather if moving in cold months)
Prepare cash for tips, tolls, and unexpected expenses
Clean out and defrost refrigerator/freezer
Disconnect and prepare electronics for moving
Do final walkthrough of new Grand Junction home

Final Contacts:

Confirm moving day details with moving company
Give new address to close friends and family
Return any borrowed items
Pick up any items in storage or at cleaners

Prepare Vehicles:

Get oil change for long-distance moves
Check tire pressure and fluids
Plan your route to Grand Junction
Prepare for mountain driving if coming from east via I-70

MOVING DAY

Final Steps at Current Home:

Do final walkthrough of entire property
Check all closets, cabinets, attic, basement, garage
Take photos of property condition
Verify all utilities are scheduled for disconnect
Leave keys with landlord or real estate agent
Leave garage door openers and any access devices
Take final meter readings for your records

With Movers:

Be present when movers arrive
Walk through the truck after loading to verify everything is loaded
Sign bill of lading and keep copy
Get driver's contact information
Lock up and do final check

At New Grand Junction Home:

Meet movers at new home
Verify utilities are connected (electric, gas, water)
Do walkthrough before unloading begins
Direct movers where to place furniture and boxes
Check items off inventory as they're unloaded
Inspect furniture and boxes for damage
Sign delivery receipt and note any damages
Tip movers if service was good

First Day Setup:

Locate emergency shut-offs (water, gas, electric)
Test all utilities and systems
Set up beds for sleeping
Unpack essentials box
Locate local restaurants for dinner
Check that doors and windows lock properly
Allow time for altitude adjustment if needed

FIRST WEEK AFTER MOVING

Government and Legal:

Visit Colorado DMV to update driver's license (within 30 days required)
Register vehicles with Colorado DMV (within 30 days required)
Obtain Colorado emissions test if required
Register to vote at new address in Colorado
Update voter registration online or at DMV

Essential Services:

Locate nearest hospital (St. Mary's or Community Hospital) and urgent care
Find nearest pharmacy and transfer prescriptions
Locate grocery stores and shopping areas
Identify local banks or credit unions
Set up trash/recycling service

Community Integration:

Introduce yourself to neighbors
Explore your neighborhood and locate important places
Drive around to familiarize yourself with Grand Junction
Visit Colorado National Monument
Explore downtown and riverfront trails
Find your trash pickup days

Unpack and Organize:

Unpack room by room, starting with essentials
Set up kitchen for daily use
Arrange bedrooms and bathroom
Break down moving boxes and recycle
Arrange furniture and hang pictures
Test all appliances and electronics

FIRST MONTH AFTER MOVING

Complete Setup:

Finish unpacking all remaining boxes
Organize closets and storage areas
Set up home office or workspace
Purchase any needed furniture or household items
Establish routines in your new home
Acclimate to altitude if moving from lower elevation

Professional Connections:

Establish care with primary care physician
Find dentist and schedule cleaning
Locate veterinarian if you have pets
Update all insurance policies with new address
Join professional organizations or networking groups if applicable

Community Involvement:

Visit local restaurants and wineries
Explore mountain biking and hiking trails
Attend downtown events or farmers markets
Consider joining clubs, gyms, or outdoor recreation groups
Visit Palisade wine country
Explore nearby national parks and monuments
Connect with Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce
Get Colorado recreation passes (state parks, etc.)

This comprehensive checklist ensures you won't forget important tasks during your move to Grand Junction. Check off items as you complete them to stay organized and reduce moving stress.

WELCOME TO GRAND JUNCTION

Congratulations on choosing Grand Junction for your next chapter! This comprehensive guide has provided detailed information about relocating to Colorado's Western Slope outdoor recreation capital.

Grand Junction offers an unbeatable combination of:

✓ Outdoor Recreation Paradise - World-class biking, hiking, climbing, and skiing
✓ Affordable Colorado Living - Significantly lower costs than Front Range cities
✓ Year-Round Sunshine - 300+ days of sunshine annually
✓ Wine Country - Award-winning wineries and farm-to-table dining
✓ Natural Beauty - Red rock landscapes and Colorado National Monument
✓ Mild Climate - Four seasons with temperate weather
✓ Small-City Charm - Welcoming community without big-city congestion
✓ Strategic Location - Gateway to Utah's national parks and Colorado ski resorts

As you settle into your new Grand Junction home, embrace the outdoor lifestyle, explore the stunning landscapes, and take advantage of the incredible recreation opportunities this special corner of Colorado provides.

Don't forget that 10 Federal Storage is here to support your move with secure storage solutions, climate-controlled units, and outstanding customer service throughout your relocation journey.

Welcome to Grand Junction—where adventure awaits, sunshine is abundant, and the Colorado lifestyle is affordable!

For more information about Grand Junction, visit the City of Grand Junction website at www.gjcity.org or contact the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce at (970) 242-3214.

About 10 Federal Storage

10 Federal Storage provides premier self-storage solutions throughout Grand Junction with state-of-the-art security, climate-controlled units, and flexible rental terms. Contact us today to find the perfect storage solution for your Grand Junction relocation.

The Complete Guide to Moving to Grand Junction, Colorado