Senior Living in Denver and Surrounding Areas

Finding the right home for the next chapter of life in the Denver metro area involves more than just picking a floor plan; it’s about matching a lifestyle to one of the most diverse senior housing markets in the West. Whether you are looking for a luxury urban loft in Cherry Creek or a golf-course villa in Highlands Ranch, this guide explores the deep nuances of Denver’s senior living landscape.

1. 55+ Active Adult Communities: The “Lock-and-Leave” Lifestyle

These communities are designed for “young” seniors (55+) who want to ditch yard work but aren’t ready for “assisted” services.

The Vibe: Resort-style living with clubhouses, pickleball courts, and fitness centers.
Housing Types: Usually owned condos, townhomes, or single-family “patio homes.”
Denver Standouts:
- Windsor Gardens (Denver): A massive, established community with its own golf course and a heavy focus on social clubs.
- Heritage Eagle Bend (Aurora): Gated luxury with a championship golf course and active social calendars.
- Heather Gardens (Aurora): A “city within a city” known for its affordability and expansive indoor/outdoor amenities.
Cost Insight: You typically pay a mortgage plus an HOA fee ($200–$800/month) that covers exterior maintenance and security.

2. Independent Living: Service-Rich Freedom

Independent living is for those who want to live in a private apartment but have their meals, housekeeping, and transportation handled by the community.

The Difference: Unlike 55+ communities, these usually include chef-prepared dining and 24/7 concierge staff.
Top Denver Communities:
- The Carillon at Belleview Station: Modern, high-rise living near the Denver Tech Center (DTC) with rooftop views and urban walkability.
- Balfour Riverfront Park: Luxury urban living in the heart of downtown Denver, perfect for those who want to stay close to museums and Union Station.
Cost: In Denver, these typically range from $3,500 to $6,000 per month as a rental model.

3. Assisted Living & Memory Care

For those requiring help with daily activities (medication, bathing, etc.) or specialized support for Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Assisted Living Costs: Denver averages around $6,000 per month, though statewide averages are closer to $5,073.
Memory Care: Expect to pay $7,000+ per month due to higher staffing ratios and specialized security to prevent wandering.
Local Highlight: MorningStar at Observatory Park offers a boutique feel in a quiet neighborhood near the University of Denver, specializing in holistic memory care.

4. Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)

Also known as “Life Plan Communities,” these offer the full “continuum of care.” You move in as an independent resident and can transition to assisted living or skilled nursing without leaving the campus.

Top Pick: Wind Crest (Highlands Ranch) is one of the most sought-after CCRCs in the region, featuring over 100 resident-run clubs and multiple on-site medical clinics.
Top Pick: Vi at Highlands Ranch offers a high-end luxury experience with a focus on wellness and gourmet dining.

Denver Specialty: Inclusive & Resourceful Living

Denver is unique for its progressive and supportive infrastructure for specific communities:

LGBTQ+ Friendly Options: Denver is a leader in inclusive aging. Dayspring Villa (near Sloan’s Lake) is nationally recognized for its LGBT+ inclusivity. Additionally, The Center on Colfax hosts the “West of 50” program, providing case management and social connection specifically for LGBTQ+ seniors.
Urban vs. Suburban: Seniors in Denver often choose between “Urban High-Rise” (Lower Downtown/Cherry Creek) for walkability or “Suburban Campus” (Highlands Ranch/Centennial) for mountain views and larger walking trails.

Financial Assistance in Colorado

While senior living is an investment, Colorado offers several programs for those with limited assets:

Health First Colorado (Medicaid): Can pay for nursing home care and some home-based services via waivers.
Old Age Pension (OAP): Eligible Coloradans aged 60+ can receive up to $1,032 per month (effective 2026) to assist with living costs.
InnovAge PACE: An all-inclusive program for the elderly that provides medical and social services to help seniors stay in their homes longer.

Comparison of Monthly Costs (Denver Metro)

Option	Avg. Monthly Cost	Key Inclusions
55+ Community	$400 – $800 (HOA only)	Maintenance, Security, Amenities
Independent Living	$3,500 – $6,000	1-3 Meals/Day, Housekeeping, Transport
Assisted Living	$5,500 – $6,500	Personal Care, 24/7 Staff, Medication
Memory Care	$7,000 – $9,000+	Specialized Security, Cognitive Therapy