not to get involved in the water rights discussion, (which is very relevant also)
Durango, hands down.
Close to Purg. Not far from Wolf Creek (1.5 hrs?) Reasonable to T-Ride (2 hrs with clear roads)
small college in town, good public library, plenty of services, lots of Doctors ( they like the life style too)
Easy to get out of the snow. ( to the south and west)
Close to Farmington if you want something machined, welded, or just a good chicken-fried steak.
further from the front range.
