When it comes to our mountain communities, one you’ll often hear about is Summit County. Sometimes called the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountain communities, Summit County is home to both breathtaking alpine beauty and world-class recreation opportunities.
But behind the postcard views of Breckenridge’s charm and Dillon Reservoir’s waters is a story of aging in America’s high country. And it’s one that reveals both unique challenges and remarkable resilience.
With 6,633 residents aged 60 and older calling Summit County home, this mountain community represents 21.7% of the county’s total population of 31,055.
While that percentage makes Summit the “youngest” county in Vintage’s six-county service region, the data tells a story of significant growth and innovative solutions for aging in one of Colorado’s most challenging – and rewarding – communities.
Summit County Aging – By the Numbers
Current Demographics and Economic Impact
Summit County’s older adult population may be proportionally smaller than neighboring counties, but their economic contributions are substantial.
In 2022, residents aged 60 and older contributed $164.7 million to the local economy, which is the second-highest total economic impact in our region (trailing only Pitkin County).
This translates to an average economic contribution of nearly $25,000 per older adult, demonstrating the significant purchasing power and community investment of Summit’s aging population.
The data reveals a population that’s deeply engaged in community life. From Breckenridge’s Main Street to Frisco’s local shops, older adults are busy here.
They’re supporting local businesses, volunteering in community organizations, and all of their hard work is going to support the tax base that funds essential services throughout the county.
Service Delivery and Community Support
In 2024, Vintage delivered 12,256 service units to Summit County residents, reflecting a comprehensive approach to aging support that addresses the unique challenges of mountain living.
These services range from transportation assistance (which is crucial in a county where winter weather can isolate communities) to Medicare counseling that helps individuals understand the intersection of health insurance and high-altitude health.
The most utilized services in Summit County include:
- Unbiased Medicare counseling (91 sessions in 2024)
- Non-medical in-home services (178 hours)
- Transportation vouchers (78 rides)
- Caregiver information and referral services (185 contacts)
These numbers show the county’s focus on keeping older adults connected, informed, and supported in their homes and communities.
Looking Toward 2030: Growth and Planning in Summit County
Projected Demographics
By 2030, the 60+ population is projected to reach 23.7%. This marks a substantial increase from the current 21.7%.
This growth reflects both aging in place among long-term residents and the continued appeal of Summit County as a retirement destination for those seeking an active mountain lifestyle.
This projected growth of nearly two percentage points may seem modest, but in a county of Summit’s size, it represents hundreds of additional older adults. Older adults who will need support in housing, healthcare, transportation, and social connections.
The challenge and opportunity lie in planning proactively for this growth while maintaining the community character that makes Summit County special.
Age-Friendly Community Planning
Recognizing these demographic trends, Summit County has embraced a proactive Age-Friendly Community planning process.
This approach addresses many of the biggest mountain-specific aging concerns head-on, such as housing affordability and healthcare access at altitude.
The planning process brings together county officials, service providers, older adults, and engaged community members to identify challenges and develop solutions that work for Summit’s unique environment.
What Are Summit County’s Biggest Challenges and Opportunities?
Housing
The most significant concern facing Summit County’s older adults mirrors challenges throughout Colorado’s resort communities: housing.
The county’s 2022 Community Assessment identified cost of living, affordable quality housing, and a variety of housing options as top priorities.
When median home prices exceed $1 million and rental markets remain tight, aging in place becomes a financial challenge even for those who’ve lived in the community for decades.
Long-term care options are another challenge. Unlike urban areas with multiple assisted living and skilled nursing facilities, Summit County’s older adults often face difficult decisions about leaving their community when care needs increase.
Transportation and Accessibility
At over 9,000 feet elevation, Summit County has some unique transportation challenges.
Winter driving conditions can last six months or more, making reliable transportation essential for accessing healthcare, groceries, and social connections.
Vintage’s transportation voucher program, providing 78 rides in 2024, is a lifeline for older adults who may no longer feel comfortable driving in mountain conditions.
However, the county’s geography means that a single transportation solution doesn’t work for everyone. Creative partnerships between Vintage, Summit County Community & Senior Center, and local transportation providers help bridge these gaps.
Healthcare at Altitude
From higher UV exposure to altitude-related cardiovascular and respiratory considerations, Summit County’s older adults may face a variety of challenges that require specialized knowledge and planning.
The 91 Medicare counseling sessions provided in 2024 reflect the complexity of navigating healthcare options in a rural mountain environment, where specialist care may require travel to Denver or other Front Range communities.
What Summit County Does Well
Summit County is hard at work supporting active aging. Some popular spots include Silverthorne Recreation Center’s senior programming and the Summit County Community & Senior Center in Frisco.
These locations serve as a hub for volunteer opportunities and senior programming, creating connections that combat isolation while contributing to community vitality.
Despite geographic challenges, Summit County excels at creating connections. The 185 caregiver information and referral contacts in 2024 represent a network of family members, friends, and formal caregivers working together to support aging in place.
Investing in Summit County’s Future for Everyone
At just $77 per month per older adult, community-based aging services in Summit County deliver extraordinary value.
With 96% of clients reporting that services help them maintain independence, these investments prevent costly institutional placements while supporting the local economy through continued community engagement.
You Play A Role in Building an Age-Friendly Summit County
Whether you’re a long-time resident planning for your own aging journey or a newcomer who wants to contribute to community solutions, there are meaningful ways to support aging in Summit County.
Consider volunteering with the Summit County Community & Senior Center, advocating for diverse housing options, or simply checking on older neighbors during challenging weather.
Summit County’s aging story is still being written. With thoughtful planning, community engagement, and continued investment in age-friendly infrastructure, this mountain paradise can remain a place where people thrive throughout their entire lives!
Want to learn more about the various aging resources in Summit County? Visit yourvintage.org or call 970-455-1067 to discover how Vintage can help you navigate aging well in Colorado’s high country.
Data sources: 2024 State Unit on Aging Database, Colorado State Demographers Office, 2022 CASOA Survey, and Vintage service records.