Is Montrose, CO a Good Place to Retire?

Many retirees think so. Montrose sits at about 5,800 feet with roughly 245 sunny days a year, a regional hospital and a commercial airport. The Census Bureau reports a median home value of $387,900, and Redfin's median sale price is $458,782. I cannot give medical or financial advice, so talk to your own advisors.

What is the climate like?

Per Visit Montrose, Montrose is in the Uncompahgre Valley at 5,800 feet, with a semi-arid climate, pleasant summers and mild winters. Summer daytime highs average 78°F, and winter daytime temperatures average 46°F. Lower elevation than the mountain towns to the east can make winters easier.

What does housing cost?

Census QuickFacts lists a median owner-occupied value of $387,900 and median gross rent of $1,197 (2020-2024). Redfin's September 2026 median sale price was $458,782. Current prices for the type of home you want may differ; ask for recent comparable sales.

What about healthcare?

Montrose Regional Health has a 24/7 emergency department at 800 S. 3rd Street, designated a Level III trauma center. See my healthcare post for details.

How easy is it to travel?

Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) offers seasonal and year-round flights; see my airport post. Most daily errands require a car, and public transit is limited to All Points Transit bus routes.

What is the community like?

Census data lists 27.7 percent of residents age 65 or older, and the population estimate is 21,583 (July 1, 2025). The city has 38 parks, a botanic garden, museums and a Main Street with galleries and restaurants.

What should I ask my advisors?

• How do taxes and living costs fit my budget?
• Does my health insurance cover local providers?
• What home features, such as single-level layouts, matter for me?

What is the bottom line?

Montrose combines a milder climate, a regional hospital and lower prices than the mountain resort towns. Visit in more than one season, and talk to retirees who live here.

Is Montrose a good place to retire?

Many people think so; it offers sunny, mild weather and services. Visit first.

What percent of Montrose residents are over 65?

27.7 percent, per the Census Bureau.

Is there a hospital?

Yes, Montrose Regional Health.

Does Montrose get snow?

Some, but winters are mild compared with the mountains, per Visit Montrose.

Connect with a great real estate agent in Montrose, Kelsey Loftis with Crystal Peak Properties. Phone: (970) 784-6768 · Email: kelseyloftis@gmail.com · Website: crystalpeakproperties.com

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts, Montrose city (population July 1, 2025; other figures 2020-2024); Visit Montrose weather page; Montrose Regional Health; Redfin Montrose (Sept. 2026). Not medical or financial advice.