Why Seniors Should Consider Colorado Springs as a Retirement Location
Retirement can be both a relaxing and exciting time for seniors, especially for those who find the right place to live during their later years. If you’re a senior looking to downsize into a retirement home or find a new city for your golden-year adventures, you might want to consider Colorado Springs. Here are five reasons seniors might find this Centennial State city a great place for retirement.
1. Low Property Taxes Save Seniors Money on Home Ownership
Colorado is among states in the nation with the lowest property tax averages, and El Paso County’s average rate is only about half a percent. For seniors opting to buy a home for retirement, that savings can be a boon in a state known for home prices that exceed the nation’s average. Luckily, Colorado Springs has a lower median home price than the rest of the state, helping seniors ensure their retirement income goes farther.
2. Lower Costs on Certain Necessities
The cost of living index in Colorado Springs is higher than the nation but about 19 points below the average for the rest of the state. For seniors wanting to live in the state or near the Rockies, The Springs makes financial sense. Plus, certain types of costs are lower in the city than they are in the rest of the country, including the average cost of health care, groceries, and utilities.
3. Enjoyable Weather in Warm Months and Snow Opportunities During Winter
The annual average high in The Springs is around 62 degrees F, and while it can get quite hot in the summer months, seniors can enjoy outdoor activities in the spring and fall without concerns about heat. Snow will fall in the city, which gets around 39 inches of the white stuff each year, making it a great place for seniors who love winter wonderlands.
If you want to enjoy retirement in Colorado Springs, including beautiful winter days, without worrying about chores such as snow shoveling, consider buying a condo instead of a single-family residence.
4. Excellent Public Transportation Options for Seniors
Colorado Springs is served by Mountain Metropolis Transit, which provides bus transportation throughout much of the city. Seniors can take advantage of discounted cash fares, which are only 85 cents and are available to anyone age 60 or older. You can also purchase a 20-ride pass for $16, which brings individual ride fairs to 80 cents each. MMT also offers Mountain Metro Mobility, an ADA paratransit service that makes it possible for seniors with disabilities that keep them from regular bus lines to make appointments or see the city.
5. Plenty of Local Services for Seniors
When you become a resident of Colorado Springs as a senior, you can take advantage of numerous programs and services in the area. Seniors who want to fill some of their retirement hours with part-time employment or volunteer work will find opportunities at local attractions and businesses. The Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments has resources to help seniors find services throughout the area, including assistance in remaining independent during retirement.
6. A Great Area for Healthcare
For retirees that need frequent health care needs, Penrose-St. Francis Health Services is just one of the several top-rated hospitals for geriatric care serving the Colorado Springs area. There are over 30 highly-rated hospitals in and around the Colorado Springs area.
For people who need daily health care assistance, Colorado Springs is also home to wide variety of senior care communities that are perfect for seniors who need need assistance with daily activities and occasional nursing services.
Colorado Springs may be the perfect home for seniors who love beautiful vistas, want to climb (or at least drive up) a few mountains and enjoy living independently within a supportive community. Seniors moving to the area can work with a real estate agent to find a home to suit their needs, and those who already own a home in the city can work with an agent to sell it for a great price that supports downsizing options.
Content provided by Barbara Thompson, Senior Care Advocate, Seniorhomes.com.
Seniorhomes.com: an organization dedicated to supporting senior citizens and their families. Our mission is to raise awareness about the available care options and resources that can help seniors stay connected with their community.