cost of living (Fort Collins, Pueblo, Boulder: renting, wages, codes)

[dynamic duo]

I currently live in Iowa, but have been wanting to move out of state for quite some time. Last year I decided I was going to make it happen. I know from research that CO ranks high in the country for educational ranking. I have a daughter who has some learning disabilities but she is working through them quite well. I am looking for a small town up to 6k population. We would like to be able to be able to grow gardens ect in the area we are living. We are not rich folk so trying to find an area with affordable renting or housing for approximately 500-600 per month. I have not done an extreme amount of research on CO yet for it is a third choice but I have found these forums extremely helpful. I feel because it is coming straight from the source and population. Hobbies include hiking, walking, biking, gardening, sports are a must for my daughter as well. We love the heat but do not mind the cold. I am a CMA, CNA, CPR certified, lincensed lifeguard, I have 8+ years experience in long term care. I am looking for a job more in acute care now but will take whatever comes my way. I may be dragging along a friend for the ride as well and he is a welder so a job in that general field is another thing that may shrink down options. How is the weather year round? A lot of snow? Good winters? Please let me know if there needs to be more information to assist me in narrowing down my options.

[flyingcat2k]

Your housing budget is very limiting. You are probably looking at Pueblo as 500-600 for a 2-3/bd in most other areas of the state is not existent or in the ghetto. Your wages for a CNA are also very low, probably looking at topping out at $10/hr to start in the pretty areas like Boulder or Fort Collins. Your welder buddy will not have any issues finding a decent paying job depending on what welding codes he is qualified for. Most piping code welders can make 100k if they are good and there is work in CO for him.