Madison Mews
Madison, Connecticut
Boulder, Colorado
What It Is Like to Retire in Boulder
Boulder, Colorado, represents an ideal combination type community for many people in retirement. It is a college town with 32,000 students in the University of Colorado providing a vital presence. It has the Rocky Mountains for recreation. Its strong high-tech industry provides a good economic base. There are many cultural things to do. The area has a relatively mild climate compared to the mountains nearby. Boulder, a city of over 108,000,(2020) tends to be one of the more expensive towns in Colorado, reflecting its desirability and the strong local economy. The city has won so many awards that the City’s official website has an entire page devoted to them – most focusing on best “Green”, “Bicycling”, “Running”, “Healthiest”, “Best Place to Live”. Both Modern Maturity and Money Magazine have listed Boulder as a top place for retirement. It has many parks and a plethora of cultural opportunities. Boulder is located in Boulder County. The city of Denver is less than 50 miles away. Photo of Pearl Street Mall in downtown Boulder, courtesy of Wikipedia and Lee Courtsey, Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0/ . For more information on retirement in Colorado.
Where to Retire in Boulder and Home Prices
Real estate developers have taken note of Boulder's popularity with retirees and have responded with many 55+ developments. They range in price and in amenities. Boulder real estate is quite expensive compared to U.S. averages and some other cities in Colorado. According to the National Association of Realtors the median selling price of a single family home in Boulder was $857,800, in the 3rd quarter of 2023.
What Is Special about Boulder
University town, over 50 suburban parks, The Rocky Mountains, Mapleton Historic District, several ski resorts within 100 miles, over 50 golf courses within 30 miles, Boulder is a very walkable town.
What Is Not Special about Boulder
This is a very green, liberal community (which might not appeal to those on the other side of the spectrum). Housing is very expensive (but stable).
Who Will Like Retirement in Boulder
Boulder attracts a community of who would like to live in a college town and who enjoy being close to one of the world’s great outdoor environments. It will never fail to amaze you to see how many fit grey haired athletes in this town, that are running, riding their bikes or walking the many trails.
Local Economy Is Driven by
Tourism and the University of Colorado drive the economy.
Climate and Physical Environment
Boulder is located in a basin in north central Colorado at 5,344 feet above sea level. The Rocky Mountains rise immediately to the west, as does the Continental Divide. Boulder Creek flows through town. Boulder has an unusual weather combination- it boasts of 300 days of sunshine per year, and 102 inches of precipitation (83 inches of snow).
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
The Macky Auditorium Concert Hall on the campus of the University of Colorado provides ballet and a concert hall. There is also a Nomad Theatre as well as ensemble and dinner theaters. The University has an excellent Museum of Natural History, and there are a variety of cultural events throughout the year- the Colorado Shakespeare Festival and the Bach Festival are two of the more famous.
Crime
Boulder's crime rate is well below average.
Medical facilities
Boulder Community Hospital
Transportation
Denver International Airport is 43 miles away.
Comments on "Boulder"
Carol Kay says:
I can't tolerate the intense sun dryness and unusual heat which is now normal after 30 years living here. Sun and heat intolerance is unbearable after a diagnosis of HSP, a rare untreatable autoimmune condition which limits my activity here. I am independent 70+ senior with 2 ESA small dogs. I need to live near a medical center preferably with neurological dept. I have lower middle income and need a studio or small one bedroom. Are there opportunities there for me? I have a acquaintance with HSP who is very comfortable living in Boulder area. I have a navigator nurse and social worker here who are willing to help me with the right forever home where I will be comfortable and have a social life.