Why this post matters: Colorado’s population is getting older, and many older homeowners are discovering that a large family home no longer fits their lifestyle. The Colorado Sun notes that the state’s over‑60 population is one of the fastest‑growing in the nation and that individuals in their 50s and 60s often find themselves confronted with “so much stuff” when they try to simplifycoloradosun.com. As you consider downsizing in Colorado Springs—particularly in the west‑ and central‑side zip codes of 80904, 80905 and 80907—this guide will help you weigh the benefits, understand current housing values and explore neighborhoods that offer culture, convenience and natural beauty.

1. Should You Downsize?

Common motivations for baby boomers

• Maintenance and mobility: Large homes require substantial upkeep. As residents age, stairs can become a challenge and yardwork more burdensome.

• Freeing up equity: Selling a larger property and buying a smaller home or condo can free up home equity for travel, healthcare or retirement income.

• Simplifying life: The Colorado Sun’s feature on decluttering highlights how possessions accumulate over decades and can overwhelm older homeownerscoloradosun.com. Professional organizers and senior move managers now offer services to help seniors sort through belongings and make tough decisions.

• Staying connected: Downsizing can bring you closer to cultural amenities, dining and friends rather than living in a home that feels isolated.

2. Understanding Costs and Housing Values

Before you begin your search, get a sense of current home values and rental costs in each zip code. Real‑time data from Zillow and local relocation guides helps set realistic expectations.

Overall cost of living:
A 2025 relocation guide for Colorado Springs notes that the average monthly rent across the city is $1,828 and the median home price is about $557,240springsrelocationguide.com. Housing costs in Colorado remain higher than the national average because of tight supplies and high demandspringsrelocationguide.com, but other necessary expenses like utilities and transportation are slightly below the national averagespringsrelocationguide.com. Budgeting for healthcare is also important; the average doctor’s visit in the Springs is $134.99 and a dentist visit is $106.17springsrelocationguide.com.

3. Exploring West‑Side Neighborhoods (80904)

Old Colorado City & Westside

Old Colorado City lies in zip 80904 and is often called the Westside. Locals say “Westside is the best side”visitcos.com because the area combines history, culture and convenience. Key features include:

• Historic charm and arts scene. The neighborhood has robust arts and culture offerings and historic buildings along Colorado Avenuevisitcos.com. It began as the first permanent town in the Pikes Peak region and even served briefly as the first capital of the Territory of Coloradovisitcos.com.

• Walkable shopping and dining. Visitors enjoy restaurants such as long‑time favorite Paravicini’s Italian Bistro and new venues like OCC Brewingvisitcos.com. Farmers’ markets, boutiques and galleries create a small‑town feel while remaining close to downtown.

• Museums and parks. Nearby attractions include the Ghost Town Museum (a collection of historical buildings and artifacts), the Michael Garman Museum and live theatre at Springs Ensemble Theatervisitcos.com. Bancroft Park hosts markets and festivalsvisitcos.com.

Who should consider 80904?

• History lovers and cultural enthusiasts who appreciate Victorian architecture and walkable shopping.

• Retirees seeking community; many homes are single‑story or smaller square footage, and the area offers easy access to cafés and services.

• Outdoor enthusiasts: Red Rock Canyon Open Space (1,400 acres with trails and recreation areas) lies just south of 80904visitcos.com.

4. Central Convenience (80905)

Zip 80905 encompasses neighborhoods like Skyline, Ivywild and Stratton Meadows. Housing values here average $368,715zillow.com and are lower than in surrounding zip codes. This area appeals to downsizers because:

• Proximity to downtown and the Broadmoor. Residents have quick access to downtown Colorado Springs and can enjoy amenities such as the Broadmoor Seven Falls and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

• Mixed housing stock. You’ll find ranch‑style homes, townhomes and smaller cottages—ideal for those looking to reduce square footage.

• Developing urban neighborhoods. Ivywild, once an old elementary school, has been converted into a marketplace with restaurants, breweries and a shared workspace; it exemplifies the adaptive reuse projects revitalizing the south‑central corridor.

5. North End & Park‑Side Living (80907)

Zip 80907 stretches from the historic Patty Jewett neighborhood to the foothills by UCCS. Its typical home value is $390,574zillow.com, with median list prices around $404,983zillow.com. Why consider 80907?

• Access to parks and trails:

  • Ute Valley Park in the northwest corner spans 538 acres and offers hiking, mountain biking, dog walking and Colorado Springs’ first dedicated downhill mountain‑bike trailstrailsandopenspaces.org. The park features geological formations and has been expanded through land donations and city acquisitionstrailsandopenspaces.org.

  • Monument Valley Park and the Santa Fe Trail provide biking and walking paths near downtown.

• Quaint neighborhoods: Patty Jewett boasts tree‑lined streets and a golf course. The North End features bungalows and craftsman‑style homes, many with single levels suitable for aging in place.

• Central convenience: Quick drives to the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS), Penrose Hospital and I‑25 make this zip code attractive for those who want to stay near services.

6. Practical Tips for Downsizing

1. Assess your needs. Consider how many bedrooms and bathrooms you truly use. Single‑story or low‑maintenance townhomes can reduce future accessibility concerns.

2. Plan your budget. Use current home values and cost‑of‑living data to estimate your proceeds and expenses. Housing prices vary by zip code; 80904 and 80907 fall in the mid $400 k rangezillow.comzillow.com, while 80905 is slightly lowerzillow.com.

3. Sort belongings early. Decluttering is emotionally taxing. The Colorado Sun notes that professional organizers and senior move managers assist older residents in deciding “what to keep, what to toss, and what to donate”coloradosun.com. Starting months ahead of a move reduces stress.

4. Research 55+ communities and condos. If you prefer a community designed for older adults, explore active‑adult subdivisions or condominiums with elevators and community centers.

5. Hire specialists. Senior real‑estate specialists (SRES) understand the complexities of selling a long‑time home. They can connect you with estate sale companies, decluttering services and movers who cater to older clients.

6. Understand taxes and exemptions. Colorado offers a property‑tax exemption for homeowners aged 65 and older who have lived in their home for at least 10 years. Factor this into your decision to sell or stay.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is now a good time to downsize in Colorado Springs?
Housing values have cooled slightly since 2024; typical home values in our target zip codes have dipped by 1–4 %zillow.comzillow.com. For many homeowners, selling a larger property now could free up equity while still taking advantage of historically high valuations.

What about property taxes for seniors?
Colorado’s Senior Homestead Exemption allows qualifying older homeowners to exempt 50 % of the first $200,000 of their home’s actual value from property taxes. It applies only to primary residences and requires a 10‑year residency period.

How can I determine which neighborhood fits my lifestyle?
Write down what matters most—walking access to shops, proximity to hospitals, park access or mountain views. Visit open houses and explore the neighborhoods at different times of day. Each area offers a distinct feel: historic charm in 80904visitcos.com, urban convenience in 80905, or park‑side living with mountain trails in 80907trailsandopenspaces.org.

8. Conclusion

Downsizing is not just about moving to a smaller home—it’s an opportunity to redefine your lifestyle for your next chapter. With a strategic plan, clear priorities and a good understanding of current market conditions, baby boomers can find a comfortable, connected and vibrant life in Colorado Springs. Whether you’re drawn to the historic streets of Old Colorado City, the central convenience of Skyline/Ivywild, or the park‑rich neighborhoods of the North End, Colorado Peak Properties can help you navigate the journey with confidence.

Do you have specific questions about downsizing in 80904, 80905 or 80907? Leave a comment below or contact our team for personalized guidance.