Assisted Living Cost in Denver
The average cost of assisted living in Denver is $4,500/month in 2026. This guide covers room-type pricing, how Denver compares to the national average, Medicaid coverage through Colorado HCBS-SLS / PACE, and the most affordable alternatives in the area.
Denver Assisted Living Costs at a Glance
Average (all types)
$4,500
per month
Memory Care
$6,000
per month
Skilled Nursing
$9,400
per month
Cost by Room Type in Denver (2026)
| Room Type | Monthly Cost | Daily Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / Shared | $3,600 | $120 |
| 1-Bedroom | $4,800 | $160 |
| 2-Bedroom / Deluxe | $5,900 | $197 |
| Memory Care | $6,000 | $200 |
| Skilled Nursing (semi-priv.) | $9,400 | $313 |
* Costs are 2026 market averages. Actual fees vary by facility, level of care, and unit size.
How Denver Compares
Denver
$4,500/mo
Colorado Avg
$4,400/mo
Near avgNational Avg
$4,500/mo
Near avgWhy Does Assisted Living Cost $4,500/Month in Denver?
- Denver is slightly above the Colorado state average — real estate and labor costs are elevated
- Cherry Creek, Hilltop, and Stapleton communities command 20–30% premiums over outer suburbs
- Colorado's healthcare worker shortage creates upward wage pressure
- Strong PACE program alternative (InnovAge) that serves Denver directly
Medicaid Coverage for Assisted Living in Denver
Colorado HCBS-SLS / PACE covers assisted living
Colorado Medicaid's HCBS-SLS waiver covers personal care in assisted living settings but NOT room and board directly. InnovAge PACE (serving Denver metro) covers all costs for dual-eligible seniors. Contact Denver County Department of Human Services at 720-944-3666.
Colorado Medicaid Guide →How to Afford Assisted Living in Denver
- Aurora, Lakewood, and Thornton communities are 8–15% below Denver proper
- InnovAge PACE provides all-inclusive care for dual-eligible Denver seniors at no cost — call 844-844-4061
- Denver VA Medical Center is a major VA hub — Aid & Attendance available
- Colorado has an above-average senior population — more facility choices and price competition than smaller markets
- Ask about summer trial stays — shorter commitments at daily rates to evaluate fit before annual contract
Find Assisted Living Communities in Denver
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More Affordable Alternatives Near Denver
If Denver costs are too high, these nearby cities offer lower averages and similar access to family, healthcare, and amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions — Assisted Living in Denver
What is the average cost of assisted living in Denver, Colorado?▾
The average cost of assisted living in Denver is approximately $4,500 per month in 2026, slightly above the Colorado state average of $4,400/month. Costs range from $3,200/month for a studio in an Outer Denver community to $6,500+/month in Cherry Creek or Hilltop premium communities.
Does Colorado Medicaid cover assisted living in Denver?▾
Colorado Medicaid covers in-home personal care through the HCBS-SLS waiver but NOT assisted living room and board directly. However, InnovAge PACE — headquartered in Denver — provides all-inclusive care for dual-eligible (Medicare + Medicaid) seniors at no cost. Call InnovAge at 844-844-4061. Their main Denver center is at 1950 Wadsworth Blvd.
What is the daily rate for assisted living in Denver?▾
The average daily rate for assisted living in Denver is approximately $150/day ($4,500/month ÷ 30). Respite care (short-term stays) in Denver typically runs $165–$200/day with a minimum stay of 5–14 days.
How does Denver compare to Boulder for assisted living costs?▾
Denver ($4,500/month avg) is significantly less expensive than Boulder ($5,500–$6,000/month). Boulder's high real estate costs make it one of the most expensive Colorado markets. Broomfield ($4,200/month) and Longmont ($3,900/month) are mid-range options between Denver and Boulder.
What does memory care cost in Denver?▾
Memory care in Denver averages $6,000 per month in 2026, ranging from $4,800 in outer suburbs to $8,000+ in Cherry Creek or south Denver luxury communities. Colorado Medicaid cannot directly cover memory care room and board in assisted living, but PACE programs cover all costs for dual-eligible seniors.
Are there altitude-related considerations for senior care in Denver?▾
Yes — Denver's elevation of 5,280 feet can affect seniors with cardiovascular, respiratory, or pulmonary conditions. If your parent has COPD, heart failure, or reduced lung capacity, consult their physician before relocating to Denver altitude. Most Denver facilities are well-equipped for altitude-adapted care, but the transition period (weeks to months) can be physically demanding for some seniors.
Looking for statewide data?
See the full Colorado assisted living cost guide, Medicaid eligibility, and facility directory.
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