The sixth annual Colorado Health Foundation Pulse Poll revealed that Coloradans’ top concerns continue to revolve around the economics of living in the state. While responses to an open-ended question about the most pressing challenges in the state revealed that the top concern most Coloradans feel relates to political challenges, concerns about the cost of living and housing continue to remain as prevalent as during the pandemic, when economic worries spiked from pre-pandemic levels.
A closer look into demographic groups in this year’s poll, as defined by location, age, race, ethnicity, income, political affiliation and experiences with mental health strain, also reveals more acute pains across a diverse range of groups and issues. Some Coloradans are feeling more pressure and more worried than others.
A deeper look at the data reveals the following trends:
Younger people (age 18-29), unemployed residents or people living on lower incomes, renters, people without health insurance, American Indian/Alaska Native, LGBTQ+ individuals, residents of Pueblo County are experiencing disproportionate financial impacts as well as mental health challenges. People in each of these groups reported facing at least three of six financial challenges, while people in most other subgroups reported experiencing two or fewer.
Nearly one in five Coloradans report experiencing at least three of the six financial challenges, like skipping meals or working more than they want to, as presented to them in the poll.
Among those challenges, food insecurity remains a significant issue for many Coloradans, with rates notably higher among several demographic groups—including Black, Latino, and American Indian and Alaska Native residents. One-third of respondents worry about being able to afford enough food to feed themselves and their family.
One-in-ten Coloradans report skipping meals due to affordability challenges—a figure that varies significantly by income level and across certain demographic groups.
Three-in-four respondents (73%) on the Eastern Plains view the cost of living as an extremely serious or very serious problem, compared to nearly nine of 10 Coloradans
56% of Coloradans reported experiencing mental health strain—such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, or stress—in the past year, a figure that has remained steady since 2022. Of those respondents, 32% identified political issues as the primary contributor to their strain, with financial issues a close second at 29%. Both factors were cited at roughly twice the rate of the next highest contributor, family or relationship issues.
These are just a few of the topics we uncovered during this year’s poll. You can learn more about the data and other trends by visiting the Colorado Pulse Poll website. We look forward to the opportunity to share additional findings and insights from our research teams and the professionals at CHF.
In a state where the Hispanic and Latino population comprises 22% of the population, it is crucial to spotlight their voices and concerns. This session will kick off Hispanic Heritage month by providing valuable insights into the recent Colorado Health Foundation Pulse Poll data on the experiences of Hispanic and Latino Coloradans, including the unique challenges, issues and aspirations of this significant demographic. Simultaneous interpretation will be available, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are heard and valued.