Retirement Social Security

9 Colorado Cities Where Couples Can Live on Nothing But Social Security

Retirees looking to move should consider one of these cities.

By Holly Humbert

Edited by Lauren Wellbank

Updated June 5, 2025

Retirement in Colorado offers a stunning blend of outdoor adventure, breathtaking views, and a relatively affordable lifestyle — but can you live on Social Security alone? With the average monthly benefit for an individual at $1,976 and $3,089 for a couple in 2025, many retirees are wondering if they can make it work. The good news is that several Colorado cities provide affordable accommodations and natural beauty, which is perfect for couples looking to embrace their golden years in the great outdoors.

For those aiming to stretch their Social Security benefits, these cities allow retirees to prepare themselves financially while enjoying the lifestyle they deserve. Here are the locations a couple can comfortably live on their Social Security checks in the Centennial State.

All apartment prices are pulled from apartments.com and all housing data is pulled from Zillow.

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Gunnison

Average rent one bedroom apartment: $564

Median home price: $597,676

Gunnison is a small mountain community located in the middle of multiple National parks and forests, providing retirees easy access to the great outdoors. Besides being affordable, this city offers high-quality healthcare including specific elderly care and programs.

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Estes Park

Average rent one bedroom apartment: $619

Median home price: $695,225

For retired couples looking to spend their golden years surrounded by mountains, Estes Park fits the bill. A small community in northern Colorado, offers stunning mountain views and lower than average cost of living — perfect for retired couples with a limited budget.

Cortez

Average rent one bedroom apartment: $642

Median home price: $339,877

Couples looking for warm weather and affordable housing will love all the Cortez has to offer. Set near the Mesa Verde National Park, this small town has restaurants, a hospital, and multiple wineries nearby. If you want retirement full of adventure and flavor, this may be just the spot for you.

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Sterling

Average rent one bedroom apartment: $783

Median home price: $244,976

Sterling is known as the "Queen City of the Plains," a hub of art and culture in northeast Colorado. There are several communities specifically for those ages 55 and up, along with a hospital and walking trails to keep you feeling your best as you grow older.

Alamosa

Average rent one bedroom apartment: $794

Median home price: $308,832

This welcoming small town offers a blend of charm and community, perfect for retirees who are looking for a new place to call home. Alamosa offers easy access to the Great Sand Dunes National park, in addition to plenty of walking trails and hikes nearby.

Lamar

Average rent one bedroom apartment: $819

Median home price: $175,572

Lamar is the commercial hub of surrounding agricultural areas, offering retirees a unique blend of rural living with suburban access. Affordable housing, a level 4 trauma hospital, and 55+ communities make this city a good option for retirees.

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Pueblo

Average rent one bedroom apartment: $969

Median home price: $294,035

Pueblo is known as a retirement town among locals. With senior specific amenities like Silver Sneakers and medical transport, retirees really like living here. There are plenty of art and cultural activities at the River Walk to keep you entertained.

Grand Junction

Average rent one bedroom apartment: $1,212

Median home price: $419,392

Grand Junction enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year. Retirees looking for a moderate sized city with plenty of outdoor activities will likely find Grand Junction is a hidden gem. Not only that, but having access to healthcare, a regional airport, and plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and skiing make this a perfect place to settle down after you and your partner clock out of your nine to five for good.

Fort Collins

Average rent one bedroom apartment: $1,639

Median home price: $575,798

Most people think of Fort Collins as a college town, but it's perfect for retirees too. There are multiple 55+ communities with clubhouse amenities for your comfort. As for entertainment, Fort Collins offers numerous recreational activities like fishing, hiking, boating, skiing, and biking.

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Bottom line

Living in Colorado on Social Security is not only possible but can also be a fulfilling experience, especially for couples who love the outdoors. By choosing the right city, you can stretch your Social Security benefits further, allowing you to enjoy all that this beautiful state has to offer.

To truly make the most of your retirement, explore and take advantage of overlooked senior benefits, from state-specific tax breaks to local programs designed to ease financial burdens. With a bit of planning and the right location, you can make your Social Security stretch and enjoy your retirement.

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