Did you know the animated show “South Park” is based on a real place? It’s true!
The town of Fairplay, Colorado, with its stunning mountain views and rich history, is becoming a hot spot for new homes and construction.
Fairplay is a former gold-mining town and the inspiration for the popular TV show created by Colorado natives Matt Stone and Trey Parker.
While the show’s characters might be known for their outrageous humor, the real Fairplay offers something different: beautiful scenery, great outdoor activities, and a much more affordable living situation than nearby ski resort towns like Breckenridge or Vail.
Why Fairplay is Booming
The real draw to Fairplay is its affordability compared to the fancy ski towns nearby.
For example, while homes in Breckenridge cost around $1.79 million, a similar home in Fairplay is listed at $775,000.
You can even find brand-new homes in developments like the Village at Spruce Hill, where prices range from $545,000 to $650,000. That’s much cheaper than living in Summit County!
Scott Lindblom, a local real estate agent, explains that Fairplay offers “great mountain views, fly-fishing, hiking, and ATV trails,” and most people enjoy the wide-open spaces.
Affordable Homes for Everyone
Fairplay is also becoming a go-to spot for those looking for more affordable housing.
A large percentage of homes in Park County (which includes Fairplay) are sold for under $500,000.
Compare that to the Denver metro area, where only 36% of homes are priced that low.
Plus, Fairplay’s new-construction homes are in high demand, even though it’s not yet a major building hub.
In 2023, a new housing development, the Village at Spruce Hill, kicked off with 14 single-family homes.
Five have already sold, with one under contract. It’s clear this little mountain town has big growth potential.
Living in the Real “South Park”
Fairplay isn’t just any ordinary town—it’s got that quirky “South Park” vibe.
The real-life town has a historic gold-mining museum, South Park City, where visitors can walk through 44 old buildings from the 1800s.
Many people say Fairplay looks just like the town in the show, with its main street and local school mirroring the fictional South Park town.
Lauren Richards, a new resident, loves how much more affordable it is compared to her old home in Silverthorne.
She jokes that it feels like driving through a “South Park” episode, and she’s not wrong!
The Bottom Line
Fairplay is one of Colorado’s hidden gems. It offers affordable homes, breathtaking mountain views, and plenty of outdoor fun—plus, it’s only a short drive to big-name ski resorts.
Whether you’re a “South Park” fan or just looking for a great place to live, Fairplay is quickly becoming a town to watch!