Nestled at the foot of majestic Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs tempts retirees with its mild climate, natural beauty and wealth of outdoor activities just minutes from downtown. Metropolitan amenities like shopping, dining and entertainment thrive thanks to the military bases that call the city home. Between reasonable living costs and access to nature, Colorado Springs hits the sweet spot for active retirees who seek convenience without big city hassles. This guide covers everything you need to know to retire comfortably against the scenic Rocky Mountain backdrop.
Why Retire in Colorado Springs?
Before diving into the details, let’s look at what makes Colorado Springs such an appealing retirement destination.
Breathtaking Natural Landscapes
With views of Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods and Rocky Mountain vistas, Colorado Springs’ stunning surroundings entice nature-lovers looking to soak up the scenic views and outdoor adventure.
Mild, Dry Climate
Average winter highs in the 40s make Colorado Springs the perfect winter playground for golf, tennis, hiking and more. Low humidity keeps summers pleasant as well compared to muggy midwestern cities.
Metropolitan Amenities
Despite the beautiful landscape, Colorado Springs still boasts big city amenities like shopping, dining, entertainment, sports and cultural attractions thanks to its military base anchors.
Outdoor Recreation
Between hiking, cycling, golf, water sports and more, retirees have endless ways to stay active and enjoy the Colorado Springs outdoors year-round thanks to abundant parks, trails and open space.
Reasonable Cost of Living
Particularly on housing, costs in Colorado Springs fall well below other major Colorado front range cities like Denver or Boulder, allowing retirement savings to stretch further.
Clearly Colorado Springs offers a compelling mix as an active adult community. Let’s explore how to retire here in more detail!
Breakdown of Colorado Springs Retirement Costs
While lower than Denver or Boulder, costs in Colorado Springs still exceed national averages, especially for housing in popular areas. Maintaining a retirement budget requires diligent planning.
Housing
Large new homes command high prices but more affordable options exist. Expect rents around $1,600/month or home prices starting around $450K in prime areas.
Food & Utilities
Grocery costs are on par with national averages. But heating bills can run high in winter. Budgeting for seasonal spikes helps. Water costs are reasonable.
Healthcare
Major health networks ensure quality care but costs still run high. With Medicare and a gap plan, premiums, copays and deductibles add up. Shop carefully.
Taxes
Property taxes are reasonable, around 1.1% on average. But state income taxes take a bite at 4.55% plus federal income taxes. Sales tax reaches 8.25% in the city.
While not exorbitant, costs aren’t cheap. But prudent planning and budgeting allows living comfortably.
Best Places to Retire in Colorado Springs
When choosing where to retire, think lifestyle preferences, budget, amenities access and more. Here are popular options in the area:
Old North End
To be walkable to shopping and dining in downtown, historic homes in Old Colorado City and North End provide character at attainable prices, starting around $450K.
Broadmoor
For luxury living at its finest, retirees flock to the elite Broadmoor area with its spectacular views, golf, pools, restaurants and top-tier amenities. Homes easily clear $1M.
Black Forest
Northeast of town, Black Forest offers acreage, horses, and peaceful living just minutes from conveniences. Homes on smaller lots start around $600K.
Academy West
West of downtown, new homes abound in master-planned communities set against the mountains. Shopping and dining provide convenience in areas like Wolf Ranch. Expect prices starting around $550K.
Fountain Valley
Just south of downtown, Fountain Valley developments like Fountain’s Bluff offer low HOA fees, recreational centers, and spacious new homes starting under $400K.
With diverse options across the area, you can surely find the perfect Colorado Springs neighborhood to call home in retirement.
Estimated Denver Area Retirement Costs
Here is a cost of living comparison across popular retirement areas in the Colorado Springs metro to help inform decisions:
| Area | Avg. Home Price | Property Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Old North End | $450,000 | 1.13% |
| Broadmoor | $1,200,000 | 1.18% |
| Black Forest | $600,000 | 1.05% |
| Academy West | $550,000 | 1.25% |
| Fountain Valley | $350,000 | 0.95% |
Favorite Retirement Activities in the Area
Once settled in your new community, abundant amenities await to fill your days with delight:
- Marvel at the red rock formations while hiking through the Garden of the Gods
- Pikes Peak Railway transports you up 14,000 feet for unmatched mountain views and photo ops
- master winding roads riding cycles and motorcycles through mountain scenery on favorites like Gold Camp Road
- play one of Colorado Springs’ 50+ pristine golf courses set against the scenic mountain backdrop
- browse the eclectic art galleries, boutiques, and eateries that line historic Old Colorado City
- partake in Olympic Training Center tours and events to watch competitive athletics at their finest
- cheer on pro teams like the hockey Cutthroats, soccer Switchbacks FC and baseball Rocky Mountain Vibes
With such variety, Colorado Springs retirees can stay as busy as they desire exploring nature’s playground right in their own backyard.
Average Annual Weather in Colorado Springs
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) | Average Precipitation (in) | Average Snowfall (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 42.0 | 14.0 | 0.4 | 6.7 |
| February | 45.5 | 17.5 | 0.4 | 6.6 |
| March | 51.9 | 21.9 | 1.0 | 9.6 |
| April | 60.5 | 29.0 | 1.3 | 9.3 |
| May | 69.7 | 37.4 | 1.6 | 3.1 |
| June | 79.2 | 46.9 | 1.5 | 0.2 |
| July | 85.1 | 52.7 | 2.5 | 0.0 |
| August | 82.5 | 51.9 | 2.4 | 0.0 |
| September | 74.8 | 42.8 | 1.4 | 1.1 |
| October | 64.1 | 32.8 | 0.9 | 5.0 |
| November | 50.7 | 21.7 | 0.5 | 7.9 |
| December | 42.0 | 14.8 | 0.4 | 6.9 |
Temperature
- Warm Season: Lasts for 3.3 months, from June 6 to September 14, with an average daily high temperature above 76°F. The hottest month is July, with an average high of 84°F and low of 58°F.
- Cold Season: Lasts for 3.5 months, from November 20 to March 4, with an average daily high temperature below 51°F. The coldest month is December, with an average low of 21°F and high of 44°F.
Precipitation
- Wet Season: Lasts 4.3 months, from April 27 to September 6. The month with the most wet days is July, with an average of 9.6 days with at least 0.04 inches of precipitation.
- Dry Season: Lasts 7.7 months, from September 6 to April 27. The month with the least rain is January.
Snowfall
- Snowy Period: Lasts for 6.5 months, from October 16 to May 1. The month with the most snow is March, with an average snowfall of 2.3 inches.
- Snowless Period: Lasts for 5.5 months, from May 1 to October 16.
Sun
- Longest Day: June 21, with 14 hours, 54 minutes of daylight.
- Shortest Day: December 21, with 9 hours, 27 minutes of daylight.
Humidity
- Humidity comfort is based on the dew point, with lower dew points feeling drier and higher dew points feeling more humid.
Finding Fulfillment in Retirement
While the natural beauty and amenities provide a compelling backdrop, your outlook ultimately determines satisfaction. Consider these tips:
- Set ambitious Bucket List goals – it’s never too late to learn piano, hike the Appalachian Trail, launch a business, or whatever inspires you.
- Develop meaningful connections and relationships that nurture your mind and spirit.
- Volunteer time to causes close to your heart – animal rescues, youth mentoring, and more.
- Continually challenge yourself by learning new skills, taking classes, reading, and exploring your surroundings.
- Embrace physical activity you enjoy, from golfing to cycling to paddle boarding on the many area lakes.
At the end of the day, who you share experiences with matters more than the experiences themselves. While Colorado Springs supplies an amazing setting, purpose and perspective shape your retirement fulfillment.
Here’s to embracing all the possibilities this special place has to offer as you begin your next chapter!
