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Boulder tops AARP's 2026 list for retiree community engagement
Summary
AARP's December 2025 Top 100 Places list ranked Boulder, Colorado, among the top six large communities for 2026 and gave it the highest community engagement score; the city also offers extensive outdoor access and local services for older residents.
Content
Boulder, Colorado, was highlighted on AARP's December 2025 Top 100 Places to Live for Older Adults list and ranked among the top six large communities for 2026. The city received the highest community engagement score of the 24 large places AARP evaluated. Research from the National Institute on Aging is cited to explain why social connection and reduced isolation matter for physical and mental health. Boulder also placed sixth overall among large communities, and the wider Boulder County region ranked 21st on the list.
Noted details:
- AARP's December 2025 list placed Boulder among the top six large communities for 2026 and identified it as having the highest community engagement score among the 24 large places evaluated.
- The city's long-standing LGBTQ+ antidiscrimination statutes and human rights ordinance are mentioned as part of its community environment.
- Boulder has more protected open space per capita than other U.S. cities and widespread access to trails, parks, and nearby Rocky Mountain recreation.
- The broader Boulder County area, which includes towns such as Erie and Lafayette, ranked No. 21 on the AARP list.
- Local services for older adults include Age Well Centers offering fitness classes, counseling, workshops, tech classes, social meet-ups, and day trips.
- The city publishes guides to accessible trails and camping for people who use walkers, wheelchairs, or mobility scooters.
Summary:
Boulder's high community engagement score and its outdoor and programmatic offerings are cited as factors that support social interaction among older residents, which research links to better health outcomes. The city's policies and services are reported as contributing to an inclusive environment. Undetermined at this time.
