Broomfield, CO 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Overview 

Broomfield is a northern suburb of Denver in Colorado’s Front Range region. With plentiful greenspace, including fishing and hiking areas, nature preserves, and several golf courses, it is a popular destination for active adults. Besides its natural beauty, Broomfield has all the necessary amenities for daily life, including a vibrant shopping center and local farmers market.

Climate & Geography 

Located east of the Rocky Mountains, Broomfield is a suburban, residential city between Denver and Boulder. Without any major body of water nearby, there is a very low level of humidity, and sunshine is abundant. Summer days are warm with some thunderstorms, and winters frequently reach freezing temperatures, bringing more-than-average snowfall. The nearby mountains shelter the area from the strongest winter storms and cold air blasts, helping regulate temperatures. 

The Denver-Boulder Turnpike crosses through Broomfield, connecting it easily to both cities. In addition, The Northwest Parkway, which runs in a circle around the greater Denver area runs around the north side of the city.

Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment 

Broomfield has generous open space and outdoor recreation for active adults. The Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm borders the north side of the city and has numerous walking trails, picnic areas, and fishing access. To the west is the Rock Flats National Wildlife Refuge, an expansive natural preserve with views of the Rocky Mountains. Residents can also enjoy the smaller trails at Cradleboard Trail and Broomfield Commons Open Space.

The FlatIron Crossing is the major shopping center in Broomfield, with over 200 brand-name stores, boutiques, and restaurants. There is also a local Broomfield Farmers Market open on weekends. Golfers can practice their swing at several local clubs, including Broadlands Golf Course, Greenway Park Golf Course, Eagle Trace Golf Club, and Heritage Golf Course at Westmoor.

Cost of Living & Taxes 

The cost of living in Broomfield is higher than average because of the very high cost of housing. Transportation is another high index, while other factors like health care, groceries, and utilities are below average. 

Colorado is fairly tax friendly for retirees. Social Security, pensions, and distributions from a 401(k) or IRA are taxed, but only until a certain amount ($20,000 between the ages of 55 and 64, and $24,000 for those above 65). Property taxes are very low, but Broomfield’s 8.15 percent sales tax is high.

Health Care

According to Gallup’s Well-Being Index, the Denver metro area ranks in the top 15 communities across the country, and nearby Boulder is the No. 3 community. The same index rated Colorado in the top 6 states.

Broomfield has one hospital within the city: UCHealth Broomfield Hospital. There are several high performing hospitals within 12 miles, as rated by U.S. News: Avista Adventist Hospital in Louisville, SCL Health Lutheran Medical Center in Wheat Ridge, and St. Anthony Hospital-Lakewood in Lakewood.