Bonanza

Bonanza is located about an hour south of Salida. This tiny mountain town currently has only 16 residents, 10 male and 6 female. Bonanza has some of the most amazing views you will ever see, and that's a pretty good compliment considering the incredible scenic beauty of Colorado as a whole. All of the residents work in agriculture, forestry, fishing, or hunting. Back in 2000 the median income was $63,750, but that has dropped significantly to just $12,940 which is probably the lowest I've ever seen for anywhere in Colorado outside of the projects. This change is most likely due to a wealthy person moving out of the area or people losing their job because of the current economic situation in our country. However, the median home value here is $83,804 which is also extremely below the state average.

Bonanza doesn't have much to offer unless you want to live in the remote mountains with no shopping or restaurants for at least an hour drive away. The same goes for healthcare. The nearest medical center is in Salida. One great thing about the residents here is how much they rely on solar power. As they are at such a high altitude, they have the use of the sun pretty much year round. While this isn't the kind of living for most people, I can understand the desire to live in a place like this, for the beauty and nature it has to offer.