Across Vintage’s six-county service area spanning Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin, Routt, and Summit counties, over 33,000 residents aged 60 and older are not just aging in place – they’re highly engaged and contributing nearly a billion dollars annually to our region.
But these data points also point to a growing population of community members whose wisdom and experience strengthen our mountain towns.
As we look toward 2030, knowing how these trends are moving can give more insight into how individuals can better thrive, regardless of age – a key mission of our team at Vintage. The data we’re sharing comes from the 2024 State Unit on Aging Database, the Colorado State Demographers Office, and our own service delivery records.
The numbers reveal both tremendous assets and important planning opportunities. From Jackson County (where over one-third of residents are 60+) to Summit County’s growing population navigating housing costs, each area faces unique challenges while contributing significantly to what makes Northwest Colorado special.
The Big Picture
A Snapshot of 2024
Today, 33,468 residents aged 60 and older call our six-county region home. That’s roughly 23% of our total population, but the story varies dramatically by location.
Jackson County leads with 34% of residents over 60, while Summit County has the youngest profile at 21.7%. Pitkin County (28.1%), Grand County (29%), Routt County (25.5%), and Eagle County (23.3%) fall between these bookends.
Most interestingly, older adults in our region contributed $826,307,360 to local economies in 2022 alone. That means nearly $827 million in economic activity from residents often stereotyped as drains on community resources.
Instead, they’re economic engines driving everything from healthcare services to retail spending to property taxes.
Looking Ahead: Growth Through 2030
So, where’s the future taking the region?
Every county in our region expects to see growth in its 60+ population by 2030. Pitkin County is projected to reach 30.1% (up from 28.1%), while Jackson County may see a slight adjustment to 32.5% as the overall population grows.
Summit County, despite having the youngest current profile, expects to reach 23.7% by 2030, which is a significant increase that will require thoughtful community planning.
Why These Trends Matter
As you can imagine, growth can often lead to new opportunities – and challenges – that communities must consider as demographics shift.
Economic Powerhouses, Not Burdens
Older adults are proven contributors who support local businesses, volunteer extensively, and often have discretionary income to spend locally.
Smart Service Infrastructure Development
Growing demand means we need age-friendly infrastructure: accessible transportation, diverse housing options, and comprehensive healthcare.
Universal Community Benefits
These numbers signal the need for proactive approaches that benefit residents of all ages, from sidewalk improvements that help both parents with strollers and seniors with walkers, to transportation systems that serve everyone.
County-by-County Breakdown
Jackson County
Despite being our smallest county by population, Jackson County demonstrates what successful rural aging looks like when community support systems work together. With more than one-third of residents over 60, the community has created innovative solutions for its aging population.
- Highest percentage of 60+ residents (34%)
- 447 older adults contributing $11.6 million to the local economy
- Top needs: Home & yard maintenance, affordable housing, transportation
- Vintage provided 5,355 service units in 2024
Pitkin County
Home to Aspen and officially designated as an Age-Friendly Community, Pitkin County leads our region in per-capita economic contributions from older adults. The county’s commitment to aging well shows in both policy and practice.
- 4,686 residents 60+ (28.1% of population)
- $154.2 million economic contribution—highest per capita
- Strong focus on congregate meals and community connection
- Official Age-Friendly Community designation
- 12,057 service units delivered
Routt County
Anchored by Steamboat Springs but serving rural communities throughout the Yampa Valley, Routt County delivers the highest volume of aging services in our region.
- 6,398 older residents (25.5%)
- $129.7 million economic impact
- Leading in home-delivered meals and transportation services
- Special Helping Hands Program: 1,329 home visits through SB-290 funding
- 22,600 service units provided
Summit County
Summit County offers a proactive Age-Friendly Community planning process that addresses the biggest mountain-specific aging concerns head-on.
- 6,633 residents 60+ (21.7%)
- $164.7 million economic contribution
- Top concerns: Cost of living, housing variety, long-term care options
- Age-Friendly Community Plan addressing unique mountain challenges
- 12,256 service units provided
Grand County
From Winter Park to Kremmling, Grand County excels at keeping older adults connected to information, resources, and fresh food access. Their model demonstrates how strategic partnerships can maximize impact in rural mountain communities.
- 4,647 older adults (29%)
- $109.1 million economic contribution
- Strong focus on public information and food security (Bountiful Baskets)
- 16,060 service units delivered
The Return on Investment
At just $77 per month per older adult, community-based aging services deliver extraordinary value. With 96% of clients reporting that services help them maintain independence, we’re preventing costly institutional placements that can cost thousands per month.
In 2024 alone, Vintage delivered 141,049 service units across our region, keeping neighbors in their homes and communities where they want to be.
By enabling aging in place, we avoid the astronomical costs of premature nursing home placements while supporting local businesses through continued community engagement. Our older adults’ $826+ million annual economic contribution is clear proof that investing in aging services strengthens entire communities.
Your Role in Our Aging-Ready Future
As our region continues to grow and age, it’s clear that the investments we make today in age-friendly infrastructure and community connections will determine the age-friendly future of Northwest Colorado.
Whether you’re planning for your own future or want to make sure that your aging family and friends have a place to thrive, there are plenty of ways to get involved!
Consider volunteering with local aging programs or advocating for age-friendly policies in your town. Even a short check-in with a neighbor can make all the difference.
Ready to learn more about aging resources in your area? Visit us online today to discover how Vintage can help you navigate aging well in Northwest Colorado.
Aging isn’t just about growing older. It’s about getting better at living in the place you love!
Data sources: 2024 State Unit on Aging Database, Colorado State Demographers Office, 2022 CASOA Survey, and Vintage service records.