Snowmass vs. Aspen: Where $5 Million Buys You More in 2025

Two world-class markets, one big question: where does your money go further?

Aspen and Snowmass are sister markets in the Roaring Fork Valley, but the value proposition between them can be very different. For buyers coming in at the $5 million price point, the contrasts in property size, amenities, and lifestyle are striking. Here’s what $5M gets you in Aspen vs. Snowmass Village in 2025.

Aspen: Smaller Footprint, Iconic Address

At $5 million in Aspen, you’re paying primarily for location. Properties here tend to be smaller, older, and closer to downtown.

Typical $5M Aspen Options:

• 2–3 bedroom condos in the downtown core or near Lift 1A.

• 1,200–1,800 sq. ft. of living space, often with partial remodels.

• Limited amenities—HOAs typically cover maintenance, but pools, spas, and gyms are rare.

Example: A recently listed 2-bedroom condo off Durant Avenue at ~$5.2M with 1,450 sq. ft. — prime walk-to-everything living, but without ski-in/ski-out access.

Bottom Line: You’re buying prestige, walkability, and the Aspen brand.

Snowmass Village: More Bedrooms, Better Amenities, True Ski Access

In Snowmass, $5 million stretches considerably further. Buyers can expect larger condos, newer construction, and direct ski-in/ski-out access.

Typical $5M Snowmass Options:

• 3–4 bedroom residences in Base Village or ski-accessible complexes.

• 2,000–3,000+ sq. ft., often brand-new or recently built.

• Full-service amenities: pools, spas, ski valet, private elevator access, and covered parking.

Examples:

• Electric Pass Lodge 3-bed residence: Scandinavian design, all-electric building, and sustainability appeal.

• One Snowmass or Lumin units: 3–4 bedrooms, direct ski access, rooftop decks, and mountain views.

Bottom Line: In Snowmass, $5M buys you space, ski convenience, and modern luxury—all with strong rental potential thanks to no restrictions.

The Investment Angle

• Aspen: Limited inventory ensures long-term value, but cash flow potential is weaker due to smaller footprints and stricter rental policies.

• Snowmass: More square footage and turnkey rental flexibility create stronger yield opportunities, especially for second-home investors or 1031 exchanges.

Final Thought

Both markets deliver world-class alpine living, but Snowmass offers significantly more value at the $5 million level. Buyers who want larger spaces, ski-in/ski-out convenience, and rental flexibility will find their money goes further in Snowmass—while Aspen remains about prestige, exclusivity, and downtown energy.

As a Snowmass-based realtor, I specialize in helping clients compare options across both markets to maximize lifestyle and investment potential.