Colorado is home to a growing and diverse senior population, and the state's assisted living communities reflect that diversity with a wide range of care options. Whether your loved one is looking for an active lifestyle in the mountains, specialized memory care, or a comfortable place to receive help with daily tasks, assisted living facilities across Colorado offer high-quality, compassionate care tailored to individual needs.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from pricing and services to regulations and payment options — to help you make the best decision for your family.
Assisted living costs in Colorado can vary widely depending on geographic location, amenities, and the level of care provided. Here is an overview of the average monthly costs for assisted living across different cities in Colorado:
| City/Region | Average Monthly Cost (Private Room) | Average Monthly Cost (Shared Room) | State Rank in Cost |
| Denver | $5,000 | $3,800 | 10th |
| Colorado Springs | $4,600 | $3,500 | 14th |
| Fort Collins | $4,700 | $3,600 | 13th |
| Boulder | $5,500 | $4,100 | 7th |
| Grand Junction | $4,200 | $3,200 | 18th |
| State Average | $4,800 | $3,600 | - |
| Category | Colorado | National Average |
| Average Monthly Cost | $4,800 | $4,000 |
| Number of Facilities | 700+ | 28,900+ |
| Medicaid Coverage | Limited (via waiver programs) | Limited |
| Licensing Authority | Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) | Varies by state |
| Specialized Services | Memory care, hospice support, rehabilitation, behavioral support | Yes |
| State | Average Cost per Month | Total Facilities | Specialized Care Available |
| Colorado | $4,800 | 700+ | Yes (Memory care, dementia, hospice) |
| Florida | $3,700 | 3,000+ | Yes |
| Texas | $3,800 | 2,500+ | Yes |
| New York | $5,300 | 2,900+ | Yes |
| National Average | $4,000 | 28,900+ | Yes |
Paying for assisted living is one of the biggest concerns for families. Here are the most common options available in Colorado:
| Payment Option | Coverage Provided | Availability |
| Private Pay | Full or partial | Common |
| Long-Term Care Insurance | Full or partial | Depends on individual policy |
| Veterans Benefits (Aid & Attendance) | Partial | For eligible veterans/spouses |
| Medicaid – HCBS-SLS Waiver | Partial | Limited to approved facilities |
| Life Insurance Conversion | Partial or full (via settlement) | Varies |
| Bridge Loans | Short-term funding option | Available through private lenders |
Colorado offers limited Medicaid coverage for assisted living through its Home and Community-Based Services – Supported Living Services (HCBS-SLS) Waiver. This program helps eligible seniors live in residential care settings instead of nursing homes.
Eligibility Requirements:
Assisted living facilities in Colorado are licensed and regulated by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to ensure safety, quality care, and resident rights.
| Regulatory Requirement | Colorado Standard |
| Licensing Entity | Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment |
| Staff-to-Resident Ratio | No specific ratio mandated, but adequate staffing required by law |
| Required Staff Training | 30 hours initial + 12 hours annually |
| Inspections | Annual and complaint-based, unannounced |
| Resident Rights | Right to dignity, privacy, and personal decision-making |
Facilities must also comply with fire safety codes, health standards, and care planning for each resident.
| Program | Coverage for Assisted Living | Eligibility |
| Medicare | Does not cover assisted living | N/A |
| Colorado Medicaid (HCBS-SLS Waiver) | Partial coverage for services (not room & board) | Income and care-need eligibility required |
Medicare does not cover assisted living because it is considered non-medical custodial care. However, it may cover short-term rehabilitation or skilled nursing following hospitalization.
Choosing the right facility can be overwhelming — that’s where we come in. At AssistedLivingSeniorCare.com, we provide the tools and expert guidance you need to navigate your options confidently.
Whether you’re just beginning your search or narrowing down your final choices, we’re here to make the journey easier and more informed.
Colorado’s blend of high-quality facilities, mountain views, and innovative care programs makes it a compelling option for families seeking assisted living solutions. However, understanding the range of services, costs, and regulations is essential to making the right choice.
Let AssistedLivingSeniorCare.com help you take the next step. Our dedicated team is ready to connect you with the best resources and facilities Colorado has to offer — so your loved one can thrive in a supportive, enriching environment.
