How much does assisted living cost in Denver, Colorado?

Denver assisted living averages $4,500–$5,500/month. Cherry Creek and central Denver communities price at the premium end. Aurora and Lakewood offer more affordable options at 10–15% below the Denver average. Memory care in the Denver metro averages $5,800–$7,500/month.

Does Colorado Medicaid cover assisted living in Denver?

Colorado HCBS waivers may cover personal care services in participating Denver-area assisted-living facilities for eligible low-income residents. Room and board is private pay. Contact your county HCBS coordinator or use our Colorado Medicaid screener to check eligibility.

Is assisted living in Denver getting more expensive?

Yes. Denver metro assisted living costs have risen 5–8% annually since 2022, driven by competitive labor markets, healthcare staffing inflation, and strong demand from Colorado's growing retiree population. Review annual rate increase caps in your residency contract carefully before signing.

City Guide

Assisted Living in Denver, CO: Costs & Medicaid (2026)

Denver metro assisted living averages, Colorado Medicaid waiver basics, and inspection lookup tips.

6 min readUpdated 2026-07-06

Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, and Boulder communities price above the national median due to mountain-west demand and competitive staffing costs. The Front Range senior care market is growing as Colorado attracts baby boomers seeking outdoor-lifestyle retirement with access to UCHealth, SCL Health, and VA Eastern Colorado Healthcare System.

Denver proper and Cherry Creek communities price at the premium end. Aurora and Lakewood offer mid-market options. Boulder commands its own premium for university-town amenities and proximity to CU Boulder medical resources.

Denver Metro Assisted Living Costs (2026)

Studio with basic ADL help: $4,200–$5,200/month
One-bedroom with Level 2 care: $5,000–$6,200/month
Memory care unit: $5,800–$7,500/month
Boulder premium: add 15–25%
Aurora/Lakewood: typically 10–15% below Denver proper

Verifying Colorado ALF Licenses

Colorado licenses assisted living residences (ALRs) through the Department of Public Health and Environment. Before touring, search the CDPHE facility database for license status, inspection dates, and deficiency history. Ask about certified Alzheimer's special care units if memory care is needed — these hold additional certification requirements.

Colorado HCBS Waivers

Colorado's HCBS-SLS and other Home and Community Based Services waivers may cover personal care services for eligible adults in participating assisted-living facilities. Room and board is always private pay. Contact Denver County's HCBS coordinator or use our Colorado Medicaid screener to check eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does assisted living cost in Denver, Colorado?: Denver assisted living averages $4,500–$5,500/month. Cherry Creek and central Denver communities price at the premium end. Aurora and Lakewood offer more affordable options at 10–15% below the Denver average. Memory care in the Denver metro averages $5,800–$7,500/month.
Does Colorado Medicaid cover assisted living in Denver?: Colorado HCBS waivers may cover personal care services in participating Denver-area assisted-living facilities for eligible low-income residents. Room and board is private pay. Contact your county HCBS coordinator or use our Colorado Medicaid screener to check eligibility.
Is assisted living in Denver getting more expensive?: Yes. Denver metro assisted living costs have risen 5–8% annually since 2022, driven by competitive labor markets, healthcare staffing inflation, and strong demand from Colorado's growing retiree population. Review annual rate increase caps in your residency contract carefully before signing.

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