Colorado Loses 13600 Jobs as 98 Companies Relocate

$13.6 million. That's the estimated loss in annual payroll from the 98 companies that relocated or scaled back operations in Colorado between 2019 and 2025. According to the Colorado Chamber Foundation's Relocations Tracker, these companies resulted in the loss of over 13,600 jobs from the state.

"While Colorado has significant strengths as a state, we are also becoming increasingly vulnerable in our competitiveness and are seeing a slow burn of companies looking elsewhere to invest and grow," said Rachel Beck, Foundation Executive Director. This statement highlights the concerns of the business community in Colorado, where increasing regulations and cost of living are driving companies out of state.

For comparison, the number of companies leaving Colorado has been steadily increasing, with 27 relocations in 2025 alone. This is a significant jump from the 14 relocations in 2019 and the 6 in 2022. The trend is clear: companies are seeking more favorable business environments, and Colorado is no longer the top choice.

Texas has been the primary beneficiary of this trend, attracting 21 Colorado companies over the past six years, including 7 in 2025. One notable example is Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America, which moved roughly 1,000 jobs to Texas in the last three years. California, North Carolina, and Arizona have also seen an influx of Colorado companies, with 10, 6, and 6 relocations, respectively.

The chamber's analysis of federal financial reports reveals that Colorado has experienced a net loss of 34 public company headquarters since 2022. In 2025, the state claimed its fewest public company headquarters in the last six years. This decline in corporate presence has significant implications for the local economy, as it can lead to reduced investment, job losses, and decreased economic growth.

Follow the money, and it's clear that companies are voting with their feet. The Colorado Chamber Foundation's report highlights that 54.5% of companies that left the state completely, while 33.3% maintained some presence in Colorado. The remaining 12% were lost due to a lack of corporate attraction. As Pat McFerron, Colorado Chamber Pollster, noted, "We now have 34% (of businesses) indicating they are not likely to make investments in Colorado — this is up from 25% last year. Among those already working in other states, this hits 41%."

The Western Slope, in particular, feels the pinch as local businesses struggle to compete with the more favorable environments offered by other states. The loss of jobs and investment can have a ripple effect on the local economy, impacting not just the businesses themselves but also the surrounding community. Policy approaches contributing to this decline in competitiveness need to be examined, and the state's economy may continue to suffer with 34% of businesses indicating they are not likely to make investments in Colorado.

The data suggests that the situation is unlikely to improve in the near future. With 34% of businesses indicating they are not likely to make investments in Colorado, the state's economy may continue to suffer. The trend is clear, and policymakers must take note and address the concerns of the business community. The Western Slope will be watching closely to see how this affects the local economy and what steps can be taken to mitigate the impact.