Colorado , state, W central United States, one of the Rocky Mt. states. It is bordered by Wyoming (N), Nebraska (N, E), Kansas (E), Oklahoma and New Mexico (S), and Utah (W). Agriculture, especially the raising of cattle and sheep and production of dairy goods, is economically important in the state. Crops include wheat, hay, corn, and sugar beets. Since the 1950s manufacturing has been the major source of income in the state. Food processing is a major industry; others include the manufacture of computer equipment, aerospace products, transportation equipment, and electrical equipment; printing and publishing; and the production of fabricated metals, chemicals, and lumber. Federal facilities including army and air force bases, prisons, and the Denver Mint, as well as regional offices, contribute greatly to the economy. A new $4 billion international airport opened near Denver in Feb., 1995. The United States bought the area N of the Arkansas River and E of the Rocky Mts. in the Louisiana Purchase of 1803. The federal government sent expeditions to Colorado which generated some public interest in the new territory, and they explored routes opened earlier by the famous mountain men, trappers, and fur traders who included William H. Ashley, James Bridger, Jedediah S. Smith, Kit Carson, and the Bent brothers. Bent's Fort, in Colorado, was one of the best-known Western trading posts. Settlement in the area did not begin, however, until the United States acquired the remainder of present-day Colorado from Mexico by the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848.

Colorado has enjoyed job growth across most sectors particularly in energy and related industries and construction creating an increase in development of affordable homes and apartment rentals. Colorado is a great place to live and work.

Colorado has captivating views of the Rocky Mountains and majestic Pikes Peak. It has many substantial farming and ranching communities, large urban areas and small towns that have a history rooted in mining. Colorado housing and apartment rentals offer many options for newcomers. It has a diverse economic base with Ten Fortune 500 companies headquartered in Colorado. There are 17 commercial and 62 general aviation airports located throughout the state which have contributed to the economy.

Colorado is primarily known for its ski and outdoor sport industry. Snow-crested peaks to dramatic canyons, towering sand dunes to endless expanses of rolling prairies, Colorados picturesque landscapes are breathtaking. Colorado apartment renters can enjoy all that the state has to offer. National forests in Colorado occupy 20% of the states land area and provide endless outdoor activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hunting, ballooning and hiking.

Colorado boasts 28 public and 48 private institutions of higher education. Colorado State University has agricultural and forestry programs and a first-rate veterinary medicine school. Colorado colleges and universities offer a broad range of apartment rentals.