100 best places to live and launch

Population: 396,436
Pros: Quality of life, business-friendly government
Con: Sprawl

Colorado Springs' diverse industries range from computer chips to Christ.

An extensive military and aerospace presence in the area has spurred growth in the high-tech sector. Long viewed by more liberal neighbors Denver and Boulder as a bastion of conservatism, Colorado Springs is home to an expansive campus for the evangelical group Focus on the Family, which houses its media and publishing business in the city.

While explosive growth throughout the past few decades left suburban sprawl and strips of big-box stores along the city's outskirts, Colorado Springs' historic downtown is coming back to life. Nestled beneath Pikes Peak, the region offers excellent weather and recreational opportunities, while city and state programs offer a buffet of incentives for local entrepreneurs. -Shara Rutberg

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