8 Towns Perfect for Retirement in The Rockies
When people think of the most beautiful places to retire to, the Rocky Mountains are high on the list. A line of mountain ranges that stretches from New Mexico to British Columbia, Canada, the Rockies are home to some of the best ski hills, National Parks and forests, ghost towns and wineries. And for those looking to settle down, the region boasts several stunning small towns featuring famous festivals, railways, breweries, and outdoor activities.
Cedar City, Utah
Situated next to the Dixie National Forest, Cedar City is known as the "Gateway to Utah's National Parks". It is within a short distance of Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, and the Cedar Breaks National Monument. With endless canyons and trails to explore, there is no shortage of adventures. It is also within driving distance of Las Vegas, for retirees looking for a little extra excitement. Or for those more into the arts, it is home to an immensely popular Shakespeare Festival. Downtown has adorable cafes to sit down and have that cherished morning coffee, as well as nurseries and floral shops to help you get started on that garden you have always dreamed of.
Cedar City has a population of just over 35,000 and a median home listing price of $425,000. (according realtor.com).
Sandpoint, Idaho
Settled alongside Lake Pend Oreille and the Pend Oreille River, Sandpoint is a picturesque town known for its laid-back lifestyle. Featuring craft breweries, delicious dining, and sandy beaches, it's perfect for those looking to relax. It is also known for its yearly Lost in the 50's Car Parade, which sees vintage vehicles from all over the country arriving to show off. For those wanting some adventure, visit the Kaniksu National Forest, or hit the slopes in the winter time. Grab a latte at one of the cafes, or if beer and wine is more your style, visit one of the craft breweries. Looking to stretch your legs and get some fresh air? Spend the day at Lake Pend Oreille after taking a stroll through the shops downtown. Homes here come in many styles, but most notable are the stunning log cabins and houses, which can be close to the town's amenities, or higher up on the hills, giving you mind-blowing views of the lake, river and landscape below.
Sandpoint's population is around 9,000, much smaller than Cedar City. Home listing prices sit around $785,000.
Grangeville, Idaho
Next to the Nez Perce National Forest, Grangeville is home to Idaho's oldest rodeo. With a lengthy pioneer past, its downtown is lined with historic buildings and architecture. The town is home to several cute markets and grocery stores, as well as Ma and Pa shops you'll love to take your business to. When it comes to homes, Grangeville adopts a traditional farmhouse style, with big front windows, porches perfect for a summer day, and large front yards ready for gardening.
With a population of 3,296, Grangeville is a smaller town, with homes at a median listing price of $430,000.
Cody, Wyoming
A western escape, Cody makes you feel like you've stepped back into the Wild West. With Yellowstone National Park as well as Bighorn National Forest, it boasts several trails and mountain ranges. But it is mostly known for its rodeos, horseback riding, fossil hunting, and history. The home of Buffalo Bill Cody, Cody is the place to be if you want to put on a cowboy hat and boots and strut your stuff. Cody is also serviced by larger stores, such as Walmart, making it easier to get everything you need. You also have the option of shopping at the smaller businesses sprinkled through downtown and the nearby neighborhoods. Looking for lots of space to call your own? Cody real estate can go from apartments and single-story homes to beautiful log cabins, ranches, and farmland.
With a population of just over 10,000, Cody is more populated than Grangeville but still has that small-town feel. A home will cost you, on average, $699,000.
Dillon, Montana
A lazy and relaxing town on the Beaverhead River, Dillon is a railway town. With nearby ghost towns to visit, it's a history buff and explorers dream. It also has wonderful areas for fly fishing. With a community hospital, your health needs will be taken care of. Time for the weekly grocery run? Stop in at one of the local small grocers. Featuring more modern homes, you won't have to spend as much time worrying about renovations and upkeep, instead saving that time for walks in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, or one of the trails running alongside the river.
Dillon has a population of just under 4,000, and an average home price of $469,000.
Salida, Colorado
Located on the Arkansas River, Salida is a creative hub, specifically for poetry. With a unique, historical downtown, it's sure to get the creative juices flowing. It is near Denver and Colorado Springs as well, making it easy to go for supply runs if need be. Gunnison National Forest is also nearby, providing endless trails to explore. Or stay local, and stroll through the trails lining the river. Take up fishing, or go sightseeing at one of the many gulches nearby. Hungry? Downtown has all the sandwich shops, cafes, and brewpubs you could ask for. Need groceries? Stop at a local market, or if you want to do a large stock-up, Salida also has a Safeway and Walmart for those extra needs.
Salida's population is just under 6,000, with an average home price of $729,000.
Livingston, Montana
A railway town on the Yellowstone River, Livingston is also near Yellowstone National Park. It is surrounded by a cluster of small towns, giving you lots of places to visit and explore. Into sports? Go for a round of golf at the country club, or play some tennis at one of the parks downtown. Take a walk down the Yellowstone River, and if you have the extra energy afterwards, head on over to W Park St, the town's main corridor, and treat yourself to one of the many cafes and restaurants, or pick out a new outfit at the thrift store.
With a population of 8,000, Livingston has a small-town charm. As of 2024, median home listing prices are around $625,000.
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Looking to go big and live out retirement in luxury? Steamboat Springs is a stunning resort town surrounded by mountains, featuring some of the best skiing Colorado has to offer. After a long day at the slopes, visit the hot springs to relax those tired muscles. Have a dog that wants to explore just as much as you do? Visit the local dog park, or go on a walk through the many trail systems. Steamboat Springs definitely caters to those looking to kick back and relax and has all the amenities one could need, including a Walmart and a Safeway. With majestic log homes situated amongst the hills and mountains, take in the view. And when the snow hits, enjoy the winter wonderland around you.
Luxury comes with a price tag, though. With a population of 13,200, Steamboat can feel more crowded, especially given it's popularity amongst tourists. A home will cost you over a million, averaging $1.9 million.
There is no shortage of beautiful places in the Rockies, and with varying price tags and amenities, you'll surely find the perfect home to enjoy your retirement. From Livingston, Montana, to Salida, Colorado, there are many options for retirees to explore. And once you settle down, you'll want to take an adventure through the region for more stunning sights.
