Overview
What is Costilla County?
Costilla County is a beautiful and rural county located in the South Central region of Colorado. It is the 38th largest county in the state, spanning 1,231 square miles. The county is home to many stunning mountain views and numerous outdoor activities and attractions, making it a popular destination for land purchases.
The natural beauty of Costilla County is just one reason why it is a desirable location for land purchases. The county is also an agricultural hub, with 251 farms recorded during the U.S. Census in 2012.
Agriculture and farming drive the local economy, generating annual revenues of $3 million. Properties for sale in Costilla County have an average listing price of $482,624, showing that the county is an attractive place to invest in land.
Additionally, Costilla County offers plenty of recreational activities, including fishing in Fort Garland, hiking in the Sangro de Cristo mountain range, and birding at Smith Reservoir State Wildlife Area. These activities draw people to the area, making it a great place for land purchases.
Overall, land for sale in Costilla County Colorado is a great place for land purchases due to its beautiful natural scenery, thriving agricultural industry, and abundance of recreational activities.
What to consider when buying land in Costilla County
Location
When choosing a location for a land purchase in Costilla County, Colorado, there are a few key factors to consider. It’s important to look at the size of the property, proximity to roads and other infrastructure, and zoning regulations in the area.
It’s also helpful to compare and contrast locations in terms of services, population density, and recreation opportunities nearby.
Additionally, it’s important to consider the spatial information of the property, such as GPS coordinates, topography, and elevation. Knowing the history of the land, its current use, and the local climate can also be beneficial when making your decision.
Finally, it’s important to research the area thoroughly and consult with local experts to ensure you are making the best decision for your purchase.
Size
When buying land, it is also important to consider the size of the land; in Costilla County, properties typically range from 1 to 5 acres to ranches hundreds of acres. 5-acre parcels are very common to find in this county. Those looking to buy land in Costilla County should consider their overall living goals and if the size of the parcel will be suitable for your needs.
Price
The price per acre of land in Costilla County, Colorado is around $3,011 on average for land that is up in the hills, mountains, or near water like rivers, streams, or reservoirs. Of 66 properties we looked at for sale in Costilla County they had an average listing price of $482,624 and price per acre of $3,011.
There are also properties for sale down in the flat parts of the valley with prices ranging from $9,500 for 5.09 acres to $14,997 for 6.87 acres.
Accessibility
When assessing the accessibility of land in Costilla County, there are various factors to consider. It is important to look at the elevation, climate, soil type, and topography of the land you are purchasing.
You will want to verify if they have road access and legal access as they are not always one and the same. A property can have road access but not legal access. One example of this is if there is a road that is passing through someone else’s property that leads to your property, unless you have a legal easement from the property owner they can legally block you off from your property.
At LandHacker we always make sure any property that we sell has legal access to get to it so you can rest assured that you won’t run into any issues down the road.
Views
Costilla County, Colorado is home to incredible sights, from the breathtaking view of the nearby mountainsides to the vast acres of farmlands.
Nature lovers will also appreciate the beautiful landscape of Costilla County, as it lies near the Sangro de Cristo Mountain Range, which offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, trail running, walking, and horseback riding.
For a truly unforgettable experience, be sure to check out the Smith Reservoir State Wildlife Area, which has a great birding trail with spectacular views!
Wildlife
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping, RVing, off-roading, fishing, horseback riding, boating, canoeing/kayaking, and conservation. Additionally, the nearby San Luis State Wildlife Area includes four miles of gravel trails for hiking, bird watching, and hunting.
There are also a number of reservoirs and rivers in the county, such as the Sanchez Reservoir, Mountain Home Reservoir, San Luis Lake, and Rio Grande River.
The Lathrop State Park, located west of Walsenburg, is a great spot for fishing, bird-watching, and hunting. Additionally, the Rio Grande River Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA) offers 1/4 of a mile of access along both banks of the river from Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge to the New Mexico border.
The area also has a number of regulations regarding hunting and fishing licenses, as well as restrictions in place for public access. Colorado Parks and Wildlife emphasizes always checking and obeying state laws, CPW regulations, and safety precautions before engaging in outdoor recreation.
Furthermore, it is important to be aware of potential rattlesnakes and not to trespass on private property without the owner’s permission.
Enjoying Nature
When buying land in Costilla County, it is important to take into account the natural features of the area. For example, San Luis State Wildlife Area, located just 30 minutes away, offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities such as four miles of gravel trails for hiking and mountain biking, bird watching, boating, fishing, hunting, and camping with electrical hookups, grills, and a dump station.
The land in Costilla County also offers features such as cattle, chicken, crop cultivation, energy, entertainment, farming, fishing, gas station, grazing, groves, historic sites, horseback riding, hunting, livestock, mining, mountain, neighborhood, office, pasture, preserves, ranches, recreational land, residential land, resorts, restaurants, retail shops, sheep, subdivisions, undeveloped land, waterfront land, wetlands, and wind power.
Amenities
Costilla County in Colorado offers a variety of amenities that can be found on different types of land, including:
- Access to electricity and other utilities: Many properties in Costilla County have access to electricity, water, and other utilities, making it easier to live comfortably on the land.
- Mountain views: Costilla County is situated in the San Luis Valley, surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Many properties in the area offer stunning mountain views that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- River or creek frontage: Properties that are located near the San Luis River or one of its many tributaries offer easy access to fishing and other water-based activities.
- Wildlife sightings: Costilla County is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, black bears, mountain lions, and many bird species. Properties that are located in areas with abundant wildlife can offer a unique opportunity to experience nature up close.
- Access to public lands: Costilla County is home to several public lands, including the Rio Grande National Forest, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and the San Luis State Wildlife Area. Properties that are located near these areas offer easy access to hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
- Agricultural opportunities: Much of the land in Costilla County is suitable for agriculture, with irrigation available in many areas. Properties that have access to water can offer opportunities for farming, ranching, or homesteading.
- Proximity to towns and cities: Despite its rural location, Costilla County is located within driving distance of several towns and cities, including Alamosa, Taos, and Santa Fe. Properties that are located near these areas offer easy access to shopping, dining, and other amenities.
It’s important to note that not all properties in Costilla County will have all of these amenities, and the availability of specific amenities will depend on the location and type of land.
Sunsets
If you’re looking for a place to experience some of the most breathtaking sunsets in the world, Costilla County, Colorado is the place for you. There are several reasons why the sunsets in Costilla County are so stunning, and I believe you’ll want to own a piece of this beautiful land after hearing about them.
Firstly, Costilla County is situated in the San Luis Valley, which is known for its high altitude and clear skies. As the sun sets over the surrounding mountains, it casts a beautiful array of colors across the sky, creating a breathtaking view that will leave you speechless.
In addition to the stunning landscape, Costilla County offers a peaceful and serene environment that is perfect for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The natural beauty of the area is unparalleled, with miles of untouched wilderness just waiting to be explored.
Owning land in Costilla County not only gives you the opportunity to witness some of the most awe-inspiring sunsets, but it also provides you with an investment that will appreciate in value over time. Whether you’re looking to build your dream home or simply hold onto the land as an investment, there’s no denying that owning a piece of Costilla County is a wise choice.
Costilla County, Colorado is a truly unique and beautiful place that offers some of the most incredible sunsets in the world. By owning a piece of this land, you’ll have the opportunity to experience these sunsets firsthand, while also making a smart investment in your future. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of paradise in Costilla County.
Wind
Costilla County, Colorado is located in a mountainous area, so the wind patterns can vary depending on the elevation and the time of year.
In general, the county experiences moderate to strong winds, particularly during the spring months (March to May) and early summer (June to July). During this time, wind speeds can reach up to 20-30 miles per hour, with gusts of up to 50-60 miles per hour.
During the fall and winter months, the winds in Costilla County tend to be milder, with average speeds of 5-15 miles per hour. However, it is still possible to experience occasional high winds, particularly during storms or cold fronts.
It’s worth noting that wind patterns can vary depending on the specific location within the county, as well as on the day-to-day weather conditions. Therefore, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast for the specific area you will be in if you are planning a trip to Costilla County.
Wind power is a viable source of renewable energy in Costilla County, Colorado, due to the county’s relatively high average wind speeds. The average wind speed in Costilla County is around 10-12 miles per hour, which is considered suitable for wind power generation.
In recent years, there has been an increase in the installation of wind turbines in the county, both for utility-scale and small-scale use. The San Luis Valley, where Costilla County is located, has been identified as one of the most promising areas for wind power development in Colorado.
However, the suitability of a location for wind power generation depends on several factors, such as topography, land use, and environmental concerns. Therefore, it is important to conduct a detailed feasibility study before deciding to install wind turbines in a specific location.
Hiking and Moutain Biking
Hiking opportunities in Costilla County are plentiful. The San Luis State Wildlife Area, located just 30 minutes from the property, offers four miles of gravel trails for hiking and mountain biking.
The Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge, located less than four miles from the property, also provides plenty of trails for hiking and biking.
The Bureau of Land Management land, located less than a mile from the property, offers even more trails for exploration. In addition, the nearby Carson National Forest and Sangre Cristo Mountains offer a variety of trails for hikers of all levels.
The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Reserve, Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, and the nearby San Juan Mountains also provide plenty of hiking opportunities. For those looking for a unique experience, the White Mountain Trading Post Living History Museum offers an array of trails.
Hunting
Costilla County offers some of the best hunting opportunities in Colorado. In the county, there are several State Wildlife Areas and nearby public lands that provide a range of hunting opportunities.
Sanchez Reservoir State Wildlife Area is 1,691 acres and features brown trout, catfish, carp, yellow perch, northern pike, walleye, and elk.
Mountain Home Reservoir State Wildlife Area is 1,117 acres and allows for hunting and fishing as well as wildlife viewing and camping.
Lathrop State Park is located to the west of Walsenburg and offers fishing, boating, swimming, camping, winter camping, hiking, biking, golf, bird watching, and hunting.
There is also the Rio Grande River Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA), a 33 mile stretch of land along the Rio Grande River from Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge to the New Mexico border. Here, hunters can find deer, elk, antelope, and bighorn sheep.
Furthermore, the Rio Grande National Forest offers additional hunting opportunities. Hunters should follow all state laws, Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations, and safety precautions, as well as secure all necessary permits before engaging in hunting activities.
Fishing
Fishing is one of the most popular activities for buying land in Costilla County. There are several fishing spots within a short distance of the area, including Sanchez Reservoir State Wildlife Area, Mountain Home Reservoir State Wildlife Area, San Luis Lake, and the Rio Grande River.
Each of these spots offers different types of fish, such as brown trout, catfish, carp, yellow perch, northern pike, and walleye.
Fishing regulations vary by location and species, so it is important to check the Colorado State Fishing Brochure before engaging in any fishing activity.
For example, hunting is prohibited at Sanchez Reservoir, but fishing is allowed. Additionally, a fishing license or habitat stamp may be required at certain locations.
Finally, it is important to remember to obey all state and CPW regulations while fishing in Costilla County.
Camping
People who want to buy land in Costilla County have several camping options available to them.
Short-term camping is allowed up to 14 days every 3 months, while long-term camping requires a permit from the Costilla County Planning and Zoning Department.
Long-term camping permits are valid for up to 180 days per year, and require the installation of a septic system and a water source.
Road Frontage
Road frontage is the length of a property’s boundary that faces a road or public street. It is an important consideration when buying land in Costilla County as it can impact the accessibility and value of the property.
Having road frontage can make accessing a property much easier than having to traverse over a neighboring property or public land to get to it. Depending on the purpose of the land, road frontage may be necessary for development or use of the property.
For example, if the property is intended to be used as a residential property, road frontage is essential for access and transportation of people and goods whether it’s a pre-existing road or one that you have put in yourself.
In addition, having road frontage can also increase the value of the land due to the added accessibility it provides as well as the potential for future development.
A property with road frontage can be more attractive to buyers, making it easier to resell or redevelop. It can also make it easier to utilize the land for commercial purposes, such as a store, restaurant, or construction yard in the future.
Overall, road frontage is an important factor to consider when buying land in Costilla County as it can impact the accessibility and value of the property.
Off-Grid Living Sites
The main advantage of off-grid sites in Costilla County is the ability to customize and tailor your off-grid living experience. By adding your own power, water, and sewer, you can customize these to your specific needs, which can save you a lot of money compared to purchasing properties that already have these utilities in place.
However, there are also some disadvantages to off-grid sites in Costilla County. Without having the utilities already in place, you have to set up your own power, water, and sewer systems, which can be labor-intensive and costly upfront even though it can pay off in the long run.
Additionally, since you are living off-grid, you have to be mindful of your energy usage and can’t rely on a regular power supply.
Finally, you also have to make sure to abide by all the county’s safety regulations and codes when installing the utilities such as your septic system.
Utilities
In Costilla County, the most common utilities available for purchase are propane for heating, cooking, and baking; solar panels for powering lighting and appliances; electricity, although it may be several miles away; wood stove for heating; and a generator or a wind/solar-powered system.
The State of Colorado and the Federal government may provide assistance to install a solar-powered system for electricity, and “Wood Fest” is held several times a year where residents are given access to private forests to cut down dead trees for firewood for a fee of $10 per pickup load.
Taxes
Property taxes in the United States are typically assessed by local governments and are based on the value of a property. The tax rate varies depending on the location of the property and the local tax laws. In general, property taxes are used to fund local government services such as schools, roads, and public safety.
In Costilla County, the property tax rate is determined by the local government, and it may vary depending on the specific location and type of property you own. You can contact the Costilla County Assessor’s office or visit their website to find out more information about property taxes in the county.
Zoning
Lastly, when buying land in Costilla County, it is important to check zoning restrictions to ensure that the land can be used for the intended purpose. For example, if the land is zoned residential, then having chickens, two horses, and dogs and cats is allowed. However, for swine and cows, the land must be zoned for agriculture or farming.
Zoning Type |
Description |
Agricultural (A) |
This zone is intended for agricultural uses such as farming, ranching, and forestry. It may also include limited residential and commercial uses that are compatible with agricultural operations. |
Estate Residential (ER) |
This zone is intended for low-density residential development with minimum lot sizes of 2.5 acres. It allows for single-family homes, limited agriculture, and some accessory uses such as home offices and garages. |
Residential (R) |
This zone is intended for moderate-density residential development with minimum lot sizes of 1 acre. It allows for single-family homes, some multifamily housing, and accessory uses such as home offices and garages. |
Tourist (T) |
This zone is intended for recreational and tourism-related uses such as resorts, hotels, and recreational facilities. It may also include some residential and commercial uses that are compatible with tourism. |
Commercial (C) |
This zone is intended for commercial and retail uses such as shops, restaurants, and offices. It may also include some residential uses that are compatible with commercial operations. |
Industrial (I) |
This zone is intended for industrial and manufacturing uses such as factories, warehouses, and distribution centers. It may also include some commercial and residential uses that are compatible with industrial operations. |
Open Space (OS) |
This zone is intended for the preservation of natural and scenic resources, and to promote and enhance public recreation. It may allow for low-impact agricultural uses, as well as some limited residential and commercial uses that are compatible with the preservation of open space. |
Please note that this information is accurate as of my knowledge, and zoning regulations may change over time. It’s always a good idea to consult with local authorities for up-to-date information on zoning in Costilla County.
You can learn more about the zoning regulation from Cositlla County Planning and Zoning Department.
Top picks of lands for sale in Costilla County
Land for Sale in Costilla County
Costilla County, Colorado, provides a variety of land types for those looking to buy. Whether you’re looking for smaller residential lots, farms, lakefront property, ranches, riverfront property, undeveloped land, beachfront property, hunting land, recreational property, commercial property, horse property, or timberland, there’s something for everyone in Costilla County.
With an average listing price of $482,624 and a price per acre of $3,011, there are many great opportunities for land purchases.
You can find all of the properties LandHacker has worked to offer you for sale in Costilla County here.
Land for Sale in Colorado
When it comes to finding the best land for sale in Costilla County, Colorado, there are a variety of options to consider. For those looking for residential lots, there are plenty of undeveloped land, small residential lots, and large rural tracts available, with an average listing price of $482,624 and price per acre of $3,011.
Those seeking recreational land can find numerous options, such as hunting land, beachfront property, and riverfront property, in addition to many other outdoor activities like skiing, fishing, and four wheeling. For those looking for a more rural lifestyle, farms and ranches are abundant in the area.
A great option is the 5-acre lot in the San Luis Valley Ranches subdivision, between its intersections with Antonito Road and Stoner Road, located at an elevation of 7,607 feet and offering beautiful mountain views and lots of outdoor opportunities. No matter the type of land desired, Costilla County, Colorado has something for everyone.
FAQ
How many acres are available for sale in Costilla County, Colorado?
In Costilla County, Colorado, there are 100,000 acres of land available for sale. This includes farms, ranches, hunting land, and other land. Costilla County is located in the South Central Colorado region of the state and is the 38th largest county in Colorado, spanning 1,231 square miles.
What type of wildlife can be found in Costilla County, Colorado?
Costilla County is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, antelope, mountain lions, mountain goats, black bears, and bighorn sheep. The Smith Reservoir State Wildlife Area is particularly good for bird watching, with a great birding trail. Costilla County also has a wide variety of fish in its reservoirs, lakes and rivers, such as rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon, cutthroat trout and the rare Rio Grande cutthroat.
What is the average price of land for sale in Costilla County, Colorado?
The average price for land for sale in Costilla County, Colorado is $482,624 and the average price per acre is $3,011. There is a combined value of nearly $36 million for farms, ranches, and other land for sale in Costilla County, with about 100,000 acres for sale in total.
What amenities are available with land for sale in Costilla County, Colorado?
In Costilla County, Colorado, you have a wide range of amenities to choose from when it comes to land for sale. These include small residential lots, farmland, commercial lots, and large rural tracts.
You also have access to a variety of parks and mountain peaks, including Lake Pueblo State Park, Greenhorn Mountain, Beckwith Reservoir, and Stem Beach. You can also find recreational property, hunting land, timberland, and horse property. In towns like Blanca, Fort Garland, and San Luis, you’ll find basic amenities, plus eateries like Mt Blanca Fudge Company, Lu’s Main Street Cafe, and Dels Diner.
There is also Smith Reservoir State Wildlife Area with a great birding trail. Whether you’re looking for a cabin or mountain home, camping or RV spot, retirement destination, or manufactured home, you’ll find the perfect property in Costilla County.
What type of land is available for sale in Costilla County, Colorado?
In Costilla County, Colorado, there is a variety of land available for sale, including farms, residential lots, lakefront property, ranches, riverfront property, undeveloped land, beachfront property, hunting land, recreational property, commercial property, horse property, and timberland. Farms in Costilla County generate annual revenues of $3 million, mostly from crops.
There was a combined nearly $36 million of farms and ranches for sale in the county recently on Land.com.
The total acreage of all Costilla County farms, ranches, hunting land and other land for sale was 100,000 acres. Residential lots and land in Costilla County have an average listing price of $482,624 and price per acre of $3,011.
Owner financing is available for those interested in purchasing land in Costilla County.
What type of septic system is required for land in Costilla County, Colorado?
The type of septic system that is required for land in Costilla County, Colorado is a standard septic tank with a capacity of 1,250 gallons and a leach field system. This is based on the number of bedrooms in the structure that is being built.
The county requires that a septic system with a capacity of less than 2,000 gallons per day be assessed by the county, and any septic systems with a flow that is equal to or greater than this amount will require the design review facility approval process.
Are there any restrictions on land for sale in Costilla County, Colorado?
Yes, there are restrictions on land for sale in Costilla County, Colorado. The Costilla County Land Use Code allows for a minimum dwelling size of 600 square feet, as well as RV camping with short-term camping allowed for up to 14 days every consecutive 3 months and long-term camping allowed up to 180 days per year with a county permit.
What attractions are nearby Costilla County, Colorado?
Costilla County, Colorado has a lot to offer in terms of attractions. Situated in the Sangro de Cristo Mountain Range, the area is known for its breathtaking views and plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, trail running, and horseback riding. Nearby you can find Lake Pueblo State Park, Greenhorn Mountain, Beckwith Reservoir, and Stem Beach.
For those looking for more urban attractions, the small towns of Blanca, Fort Garland, and San Luis are all close by. In Fort Garland you can find fishing and camping areas along Ute Creek, and on the main strip of Blanca you’ll find Mt Blanca Fudge Company and Lu’s Main Street Cafe.
Additionally, south of Blanca is the Smith Reservoir State Wildlife Area, which has a great birding trail!
What is the process for buying land in Costilla County, Colorado?
Buying land in Costilla County, Colorado can be a rewarding experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Research: Before you purchase land in Costilla County, it’s important to do your research so you know what kind of land you’re looking for, what it’s worth, and the process of purchasing it. Research the different types of land available and the costs associated with it, such as taxes, property insurance, and other maintenance costs.
- Find a Realtor: Find a qualified realtor that specializes in Costilla County land sales. A realtor can help you understand the process of purchasing land, such as what paperwork you need, what inspections need to be done, and what timeframe is expected for the process.
- Browse listings: Browse land listings for sale in Costilla County, CO including acres of undeveloped land, small residential lots, farm land, commercial lots, and large rural tracts. Compare prices and features to find the perfect lot or acreage for you.
- Make an offer: Once you’ve found the perfect piece of land, make an offer and negotiate the purchase terms.
- Close the deal: Make sure all of the paperwork is complete, including title searches and other required documents. Work with your realtor to ensure that all the details are taken care of and pay the necessary fees.
- Enjoy your land: Once the deal is closed, you can enjoy your land! Make sure to follow all zoning and building regulations, get necessary permits, and ensure you maintain your land as required.
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