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Where to Retire: Fort Collins, Colorado
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Ed Note: Author Warren Bland provides information on where to retire.
By Warren Bland
Originally an army post on the western frontier, Fort Collins emerged in the late 20th century as one of Colorado’s principal educational, commercial and industrial centers. The city has a relaxed atmosphere that reflects its residents’ preference for a less frenetic lifestyle than found in some other Colorado Piedmont cities, resulting in a desirable location for an active retirement.
Landscape: Fort Collins, Colorado stretches across a gently sloping plain, which rises westward toward the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The natural landscape consists of grassland grading into coniferous woodland in the foothills. In town, stream irrigation from the mountains creates a lush landscape.
Climate: Fort Collins has a four-season climate characterized by light precipitation, ample sunshine and dramatic seasonal and day-to-day changes in the weather.
Quality of Life: Excellent. The beautifully restored historic downtown is delightful. The people of this college town appear friendly, well educated and appreciative of their community’s high quality of life.
Housing: Housing costs are slightly above the national average. The ambiance of most neighborhoods and the variety and quality of the housing stock makes housing a good buy.
Goods and Services: Health care, groceries and transportation costs are 8% above national norms, utilities are 10% below average, and other goods and services costs are at the national average.
Taxes: State and local taxes in Fort Collins are 8.8% of income compared to the U.S. average of 9.7%. State income taxes are a little above the national average but property and sales and excise taxes are lower than average.
Transportation: Most residents drive. Transfort bus system provides local service and Greyhound provides intercity bus service. Jet and rail service are provided by Denver International Airport and Amtrak, 65 miles away.
Retail Services: Shop at Foothills Fashion Mall, Foleys, Mervyn’s and other department stores and Target and Wal-Mart discount stores. Fort Collins’ beautifully revitalized historic downtown features specialty shops, art galleries, restaurants and brewpubs.
Health Care: Poudre Valley Hospital is the area’s major medical center. Additional facilities are only an hour away in Denver.
Community Services: Fort Collins, Larimer County, Colorado State University and local community and religious organizations offer a fine array of services.
Cultural and Educational Activities: Colorado State University, the Learning in Retirement Institute and Front Range Community College offer courses. The university and Lincoln Center host visual and performing arts. Don’t miss the Sundance Bluegrass Festival and Chili Cook-off.
Recreational Activities: The Fort Collins park system is excellent and the Horsetooth Reservoir, Lory State Park, the Cache la Poudre River and Rocky Mountain National Park are other important recreational assets nearby. You can also join the university’s fitness program, attend intercollegiate games or take in a movie.
Work and Volunteer Activities: Opportunities for work and volunteerism are plentiful.
Crime Rates and Public Safety: The crime situation in Fort Collins is satisfactory and the city feels quite safe as one walks its streets.
Conclusion: Fort Collins is a good place for an active retirement in a scenic and rather relaxed setting.
Ratings courtesy of “Retire in Style, 60 Outstanding Places Across the USA and Canada” by Warren R. Bland, PhD (www.nextdecade.com)
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