Retirement comes with thousands of small decisions that hopefully create an amazing life after work. But, unfortunately, many retirees have a difficult time deciding what location fits that future best for them.

Thankfully, Colorado offers a lot that could make anyone happy!  From fantastic health benefits to cities with unique personalities, this state has a lot going on.  These are the top things to know if you want to start a life in Colorado.

Save More than the National Average

When planning to retire in Colorado, the first thing you need to know is that you’ll need to start saving as early as possible, and more than you’d expect.  Since half of the retirees have a retirement income of less than $24,224 per year, and the cost of living in Colorado sitting at over $45,000 a year, it’s vital that you either have a large budget already or that you work hard to save twice as much money.

This is an expensive state to live in, consistently ranked within the top ten most expensive in the country: so you must go into this with a clear image of your budget.

Spend More Time Outdoors

Colorado understands how important it is for everyone to have a healthy relationship with the great outdoors.  Multiple national and state parks, incredible rivers, and lakes, and amazing rock climbing tours give you the chance to get as in touch with nature as you want to be.  It can take time to acclimate to this change, especially if you’re coming from city living, but it’s worth it for how much good it does for both mental and physical health.  

Enjoy the Longer Life Expectancy

Living in Colorado does come with multiple perks: including a longer lifespan!  Seniors who live in this great state are reported to live two years longer than the national average: which can feel like so much time when you get to spend it having fun and being with loved ones.

Pick A City that You’ll Enjoy

Every city and town in Colorado has a unique identity that makes it stand out against the others.  Aurora is a city that’s well known for being the most diverse in the state and quickly creating multicultural communities that you wouldn’t believe.  Meanwhile, Denver was ranked the second best city in the USA by the U.S. News and World Report and had amazing affordable and stylish housing. So whether you settle in apartments in Denver, CO, or a house in Aurora: get to know the areas and look for a community that feels like home to you.

Pay Attention to the Altitude

Although higher altitudes are some of the most beautiful locations to visit, the thin air may be more difficult for people with medical problems that restrict their airflow.  If this is an issue that you have to face, consider moving to a portion of the state that allows easier breathing and ensures you don’t have to stress about the altitude.  If you’re not sure if this will affect you, talk to a medical professional that’s familiar with your case before picking an area in Colorado.