Surprisingly, Colorado isn’t well known as a retiree hotspot, but those familiar with the state know it is. There are many reasons to spend your golden years in the Centennial State. The state’s pension/annuity subtraction keeps retirement income taxes low. Its beautiful lakes and mountain trails can keep you active in your advancing years. It also has a strong health care system, and nearly 15% of its population is over 65, so you’ll never get lonely. Colorado’s overall cost of living is higher than in many states, but that’s because certain pricey locations elevate the average.
Consider the following cities in Colorado for a retirement that suits your budget:
1. Grand Junction
2. Durango
3. Colorado Springs
4. Salida
5. Greeley
6. Fort Collins
7. Estes Park
8. Vail
Grand Junction, Mesa County
The Colorado National Monument and the Grand Mesa are two of the most popular and spectacular sites in the state. Grand Junction puts you close to these iconic natural wonders and their recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, lakes for fishing, and birdwatching spots. While its outdoor locations are spectacular, Grand Junction has a cosmopolitan heart. The city is home to the country’s largest outdoor sculpture gallery, traditional indoor art spaces, boutique stores, and a diverse range of restaurants. Incredibly, even with all of its accommodations, Grand Junction is still one of the cheapest places to live in Colorado.
Grand Junction’s convenient location along I-70 makes this one of the best retirement cities in Colorado for people who love road trips.
Durango, La Plata County
If you love food and culture, Durango is one of the best places to retire in Colorado. It’s home to around 90 restaurants and several local wineries and craft breweries. This area features 12 art galleries, several cinemas, and independent boutiques, so there’s always something to do. If you prefer burning calories outdoors, hit the trails in the neighboring San Juan Mountains or go kayaking on the Animas River.
Durango-La Plata Senior Center is the heart of the community. You can also meet like-minded folks at local clubs, including Senior Outdoors and Durango Line Dancers: a dance group exclusively for local seniors.
Colorado Springs, El Paso
Colorado Springs is Colorado’s second-largest city, so it’s the ideal choice for retirees who love big city conveniences close to home. Browse the art galleries on Colorado Avenue, play tourist at the downtown museums, and check out the stores and eateries at Pikes Peak Center. The city has around 300 sunny days each year, so scheduling time to explore Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods is easy.
Despite its size, Colorado Springs has a cost of living that’s relatively affordable. You’ll find gated communities, low-maintenance downtown apartments, and larger homes in the friendly suburbs, all at a range of price points here. There’s a reason it topped our list of best places to live in Colorado.
Salida, Chaffee County
Salida is another of the best towns to retire in Colorado. Locals love wandering the streets as they marvel at the old architecture. Developers have transformed many of these turn-of-the-century buildings into antique stores and independent restaurants. Salida’s downtown area, one of the biggest historic districts in Colorado, is also Colorado’s first Creative Districts. There are around 20 art galleries and studios downtown, each with its distinct personality.
Salida sits on the banks of the Arkansas River, a popular spot for white-water rafting. The river attracts summer tourists, but once they return home, the city’s pace slows down once again.
Greeley, Weld County
With a cost of living below the national average, Greeley is one of the cheapest places to retire in Colorado. It’s more than just affordable, though. Retirees enjoy quality lives, with performance venues, restaurants, and beautiful parks all close to home. North Colorado Medical Center and several specialty healthcare clinics can take care of your every medical need.
Greeley combines its own excellent amenities with a convenient location, with Boulder 45 minutes away and downtown Denver just an hour’s drive from the city. Regular travelers will also appreciate that Denver International Airport is under an hour away.
Fort Collins, Larimer County
Fort Collins is a college town, but it’s not just for the young. As the fourth largest city in the state, it offers quality facilities that also cater to the needs of retiring seniors. You’ll love visiting the charming boutiques and restaurants in the historic Old Town district and stopping to watch the world go by at Horsetooth Reservoir. The city has 143 miles of bike lanes, allowing many seniors to trade in their cars for two wheels. There are a handful of great places to live in Fort Collins if you’re considering calling this place home.
Estes Park, Larimer County
Larimer County is more than just a home for big cities. Here, you’ll also find a great small town. Estes Park is one of the best retirement communities in Colorado for people who want to enjoy peace and quiet in their golden years. With just 6,300 people, the town promises the utmost privacy. Roughly 40% of the locals in Estes Park are seniors with a median age of 59, so it’s really set up for older Americans. The nearby Rocky Mountain National Park puts you close to hiking trails and fishing spots.
The Estes Park Senior Center is a hive of activities, such as yoga classes, bridge, mahjong, and affordable lunches.
Vail
We’ve focused on the best places to retire in Colorado on a budget, but we understand some seniors aren’t counting their pennies. If you have cash to spend in your golden years, consider Vail. This well-known ski resort is one of the best small towns in Colorado to retire in thanks to its recreational opportunities and urban feel. The ski slopes are great fun during winter. And when the snow melts, you can keep moving in the local parks. Vail caters to tourists and, to this end, features first-rate restaurants, coffee shops, and bars.
If you’re ready to spend your golden years in Colorado, visit Zumper. We have the latest rental listings in some of the most desirable Colorado retirement towns and cities. Visit our website or download the Zumper app so you can keep track of the state’s property market while you’re on the move.
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