By: Audrey Brooks

Fort Collins, Colo. — When looking at a place to live, the local business scene doesn’t exactly top the list of what people look for. However, many people who live in a community that contains a lot of local businesses feel a stronger connection to their town and their neighbors through shopping with local businesses and overall having a better quality of life.

The question is how do local businesses improve your quality of life? Spending money even at a local store is still spending money, and for many Americans that is a stressful thing. I know I personally don’t like spending money.

However, when you go to a local business, or even better, a place with several local businesses together, you’re experiencing more than just buying stuff. You get to go out and make a connection with the people in your community. You can learn where your products come from, and if you do choose to buy something, you’re supporting your neighbors in achieving their goals.

So why should you live in Fort Collins? How do its local businesses compare to other places? Well for starters, Fort Collins, according to a study by RewardExpert, as of 2018 ranked 9th in the US for best places to start a small business.

A city that encourages its residents to own and manage small businesses is one that cares about its residents, by promoting healthy eating, sustainable living, and community connection through local businesses. To me, that’s a city worth living in.

So, maybe looking at local businesses isn’t necessarily a “must” when deciding where to live, but if you want to be part of a community, support local businesses, and overall have a better quality of life in your new city, take into consideration the local businesses in the area. Perhaps you’ll find just the place you’re looking for. Who knows? You could even end up in Fort Collins.