Aurora

Overview

Aurora is an eastern suburb of Denver, Colorado. With numerous nature preserves, parks, and reservoirs nearby, it is a great city for active adults seeking outdoor recreation. Besides this, Aurora has an expansive outdoor mall, several breweries, and local museums, all of which make it popular among retirees.

Climate & Geography

Aurora has a semi-arid climate. Summer temperatures can reach the 90s, and winter temperatures typically fall into the 30s. There is little rainfall in the region, averaging only 14 inches throughout the year, but snowfall in the winter is heavy. Residents can expect an average of 240 days of sunshine per year. 

Aurora is located in the Front Range between the Rocky Mountains and the High Plains. The terrain is generally flat with a few rolling hills, but the city sits at a high elevation.

Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment

Active adults looking to get outside have plenty of opportunities in Aurora. Cherry Creek State Park is a 4,000-acre park with a natural preserve, lake for boating, and miles of walking trails. The Plains Conservation Center also has trails, which are perfect for wildlife viewing. For swimming, picnicking, and more boating, retirees can head to the Aurora Reservoir. 

Residents seeking more shopping and entertainment enjoy Southlands, a large outdoor mall with brand names, designer boutiques, a movie theater, a farmers market, and concerts. Other popular amenities in the city include several local breweries, the Aurora History Museum, and the Arapahoe Park for horse racing. 

In addition to all Aurora has to offer, the city is only a half-hour from Denver.

Cost of Living & Taxes

Aurora's cost of living is just above the national average. Though housing costs are above the national average, they are below the state average. 

Colorado is a moderately tax-friendly state for retirees. Social Security benefits, pensions, and income from savings accounts are taxed, but they are eligible for deduction. For retirees 55 to 64, the deduction is $20,000, and for retirees over 65, the deduction is $24,000. The state's property taxes are low, and there is an exemption available for retirees over 65. Sales taxes are also below average.

Health Care

The Denver metro area scores very well on Gallup's Well-Being Index, ranking in the top 15 communities across the country.

Aurora residents have access to UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital, which is nationally ranked by U.S. News in seven specialties. In addition, Medical Center of Aurora is rated high performing in two specialties.