When you think of the perfect retirement destination, places in Florida and Arizona typically come to mind.
But for many, Colorado Springs is the perfect place to spend their golden years. Senior citizens seem to be more active today than ever before. If your interests include year-round recreation opportunities, shopping, dining, and abundant days of sunshine then Colorado Springs may be the perfect retirement destination for you.
According to the QuickFacts – U.S. Census Bureau, the year 2020 documented that 13.6 percent of the Colorado Springs residents were 65 years of age and older. According to CNBC, Colorado was the third best state in the country in which to retire. The benefits of retiring in Colorado Springs and the neighboring cities are many.
Amenities Aplenty for Seniors in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs offers the combination of the great outdoors and metropolitan culture. A climate that offers four seasons (even if they’re sometimes abbreviated and overlapping) and over 300 days of sunshine each year, outdoor opportunities for the active senior are abundant.
The vibrant, walkable downtown areas in Colorado Springs, Old Colorado City, and Manitou Springs boasts extensive shopping and dining options. There are several outdoor venues for sports and recreation that encourage senior citizens to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Hiking in nearby Red Rocks Canyon and Garden of the Gods brings people closer to nature but within proximity to the city. Music enthusiasts are entertained by events at the Pikes Peak Center, the Colorado Springs Symphony Orchestra, free concerts presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Band, and more.
Livability options and access to healthcare are a big draw for retirees. According to After 55, “retirement income taxes are low, lots of retirees already live in Colorado, gorgeous areas are assessable to all, healthcare is strong in Colorado, and great retirement communities exist all over.” Compared to the national average, Colorado Springs is 6 percent lower for cost-of-living expenses and 2 percent lower for the cost of housing. But it must be said that housing is still an issue when moving to Colorado and Colorado Springs is no exception.
Colorado Springs Senior Center
The Colorado Springs Senior Center, in partnership with the City of Colorado Springs, is a 17,000 square-foot facility that offers extensive activity, support and socializing opportunities. These include art classes, exercise classes, health classes, groups and clubs, free movie events and more.
Lyndsey Pouncey, Program and Operations Director, explained that the programs and services are well utilized by the senior population in Colorado Springs. “Pre-COVID, we were seeing between 300 and 400 participants every day at the Senior Center for various activities,” she said. “Some came to hang out, some folks participated in classes, some came for the lunch program. During COVID we were closed for about 14 months and since reopening our participation numbers are steadily climbing, and we are at about 80 percent compared to our pre-COVID numbers.”
“We are the only senior center in Colorado Springs,” Lyndsey noted. “That is a big responsibility. We are honored to have that privilege and we take pride in serving our older adults, providing classes, and being a source for folks to find camaraderie.”
Asked why she felt retirees were choosing Colorado Springs, Lyndsey said “The City of Colorado Springs has so much to offer. It has the conveniences of a large city and in an hour’s drive you can be completely secluded in the mountains surrounded by aspen trees. It’s the absolute best of both worlds. There’s an abundance of recreational opportunities and it’s a thriving place for those who are doers.”
Those Who Chose to Retire in Colorado Springs
Sandy Simandle, 68, moved to Colorado Springs just four months ago. A resident of Kentucky for the past 10 years, her goal for retirement was to be near her daughter, who lives in nearby Fountain. Hiking is her favorite activity and she’s signed up for the 52 Hike Challenge to ensure she gets out.
“I’ve joined two women’s hiking groups,” she said. “I hope by the end of the year to have made more friends as I would love to enjoy some of the unique restaurants in this area.”
Nick Butler, 67, left his home in Dallas where he lived for the past 15 years and relocated to Colorado Springs in January 2021. He considered settling in Denver but decided he wanted a smaller city. An avid tennis player, he also wanted to be able to continue playing and decided Colorado Springs was perfect for him.
“It’s kinda corny but I’ve wanted to live in or near the mountains since I saw them for the first time as a small boy,” he explained. “I’ve spent time in and around Colorado Springs over the years. The climate is great so just being outdoors is great.”
Just weeks ago, Jill Peters and her husband packed their belongings and left their Cincinnati home. Though they’ve only been residents of Colorado Springs for a short time, Jill, 56, said there’s nothing they dislike about the area.
“We’ve been out here many, many times to visit,” she said. “We’ve been here for all the seasons and have always loved Colorado. We picked Colorado Springs because it’s closer to the mountains and is less expensive than Denver.” So far, the couple have enjoyed the outdoors by hiking, biking and running. “I love being so close to the mountains and there’s so many outdoor activities to do. It’s just so pretty and I never get tired of looking at Pikes Peak,” she said.
