Retire in Grand Junction. Tips and advice from local REALTOR, Paul Aspelin. Licensed in Colorado.

Tag Archive for: retire in Grand Junction

Relocating to Grand Junction is all about Location

It’s All About LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

I am amazed at the number of unrepresented home buyers that are relocating to Grand Junction who attend open houses. These buyers come into town for a long weekend to get a feel for the area. They casually attend open houses to gauge the real estate market.

It’s no secret that thousands of people each year are considering relocating to Grand Junction with all the recent national press and accolades the Grand Valley has received. Grand Junction has become a hotbed for attracting home buyers and retirees from all over the country. What’s not to like? A mild climate with four seasons and unlimited access to outdoor activities. Plus, views that will continue to amaze you for years to come. Moving to Grand Junction isn’t about buying a home, it’s about experiencing a new lifestyle.

I AM Your Grand Junction Relocation Guide

Your Grand Junction Relocation Guide is Paul Aspelin. Here he is standing in front of his Toyota TacomaIf you are going to take the time to plan an exploration trip to see if relocating to Grand Junction is in your future, just call me! Whether by plane or car, allow me to make the most of your time while you visit. I understand many of you are early in your decision-making process. Still, “thinking about it” is all part of the natural process. I get it.

Sharing this valley and a few homes along the way is one of my favorite parts of the job. I happily spend an afternoon—or even a whole day—helping people see if Grand Junction is the right fit. No strings attached. Location, location, location is often cited as the heart of every home purchase, but have you ever considered the deeper meaning of repeating that word three times?

👉 Read my post about being your personal Grand Junction Relocation Guide!

The True Meaning of Location, Location, Location

Grand Junction Airport

Flying over Grand Junction – read about our Grand Junction Airport Experience

The first “location” refers to the city itself, or in our case, the entire Grand Valley. Does the city have the amenities you need? Where is the nearest grocery store? How about a Target, Best Buy, or local farm to table dining options? How far away is the nearest airport? Does it have a quaint downtown area? Is there a sense of community? Do I feel safe? The questions differ for everyone, but the process remains the same. Everyone starts from a 10,000 ft point of view.

The second location is filtered down one more segment to which part of the broader area interests you?

Will you end up relocating to Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade, Whitewater, Glade Park or up on the Mesa? Some of this will be dependent on the price range you are considering, but not always.

Do you want to be able to walk to downtown? Are certain schools important to you? Is there a desire for some elbow room and acreage? Is a view important? Would you like to walk out your back door and be on world class trails within minutes? Is the distance to your work something to take into consideration? Where are the new construction developments in the area? Everyone has different wants and needs.

Finally, the third location narrows things down to neighborhoods and the actual home location within those neighborhoods. How does it feel when you first drive down the street? Are yards well taken care of or do they look like everyone is having a year-round yard sale? Is there a large undeveloped parcel behind the neighborhood that offers space now, but in the future is designated to be a rock quarry? Are you looking for newer homes or one with a more historic feel?

These are just some of things people relocating to Grand Junction take into consideration while they process if a move is right for them.

Why choose to Retire in Grand Junction post by Paul Aspelin

Your Grand Junction Relocation Guide

Now, imagine if you had a guide to help narrow things down. A guide who could also give you insight into what people do in their free time? From farmers markets to summer concerts in Los Colonias, or best day trips from Grand Junction or tips on where your best chance to see bighorn sheep might be? There is so much more to understanding an area than aimlessly driving around and attending a few open houses.

I understand the thirst for knowledge about a new area is essential before making a move. Many people become obsessive Googlers when researching relocation—something I can relate to, having spent two years doing the same before moving. That experience inspired the creation of this blog. With a little guidance, your visit can be maximized, even if it’s just an afternoon together, setting you on the right path to explore the Grand Valley on your own the next day.

You may have wished you had a friend in the area to show you around, now you do. Call or text me with confidence (612) 306-9558. Get started with your move to Grand Junction!

You might also enjoy my post called Retire in Grand Junction – your kids and grandkids will thank you and What I Learned After Living Here for 3 Months. Things to do in Grand Junction: Easy Hikes, oh, and everyone’s favorite, What It’s Really Like Driving I-70!

MOVE2GJ with Paul Aspelin

Check out my custom license plate!

Move to Grand Junction… we’ve been waiting for you!

Text or Call (612) 306-9558 or schedule a Discovery Session to get all your questions answered

PAUL ASPELIN, Relocation & Listing Expert
REALTOR®, GRI, SRES®, CNE

I am your personal Grand Junction Relocation Guide
Connect with me on LinkedIn or send me an email.
Learn more about my experience and how I serve my clients 

© 2025 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR® MovetoGrandJunction.com Copyright protected. All rights reserved.

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Winter Weather in Grand Junction

Winter Weather in Grand Junction

Retirement Weather Expectations Redefined When You live in Grand Junction

When considering a retirement destination, people often focus on housing, proximity to family, cost of living, access to healthcare, quality of life, state tax rates, winter weather, and even job opportunities. However, the one aspect that often tops the retirement location list is mild winter weather. Regardless of your personal reasoning, I urge you to explore why the winter weather in Grand Junction stands out as an ideal location for retirement.

Winter Weather in Grand Junction

For many retirees, the idea of escaping harsh winter conditions is a key factor in choosing a new home. Grand Junction, nestled in the heart of the Grand Valley, boasts winters that are mild in temperature and snowfall compared to other parts of the country. Unlike regions with challenging winters, the Grand Valley provides a comfortable climate that enhances your retirement experience. Read my post about Grand Junction Weather.

Cold Weather States

In colder weather states, there’s an unspoken expectation that retirees are required to only head to warmer destinations, like Florida or Arizona, to escape winter’s grip. However, Grand Junction challenges this norm. The decision to retire here isn’t solely about avoiding winter; it’s about embracing a balanced lifestyle and experiencing all four seasons. The Grand Valley offers something unique—a place where you can enjoy the benefits of winter without the extremes found in other cold-weather regions. You don’t have to give up winter altogether.

Grand Junction Parade of Lights

Grand Junction Parade of Lights

Enjoy the Change of Seasons

I was well aware of the mild winters before moving to Grand Junction. It wasn’t until I made the move to Grand Junction that I realized how much I still appreciate the joy of experiencing distinct seasons. Having lived through the brutal winters of Minnesota, I developed a genuine love for the season and winter activities, just not 6-8 months of it!

Retirement in Grand Junction means you can still enjoy the enchantment of snow-covered landscapes and the seasonal activities that winter provides. With ice fishing being a part of my DNA, a quick trip to the Grand Mesa can easily fulfill my desire to be outdoors on “hard water” as we called it in Minnesota.

You can embrace a half day of skiing at Powderhorn Mountain Resort in the morning and an afternoon round of golf at the Redlands Mesa Golf Course in the same day. If that sounds like a great day, then Grand Junction is right for you. Read my post about Golf Courses in Grand Junction.

We have enjoyed the Fruita Parade of Lights and the Grand Junction Parade of Lights without freezing. In fact, I recommend the extremely chocolatey Polar Express hot chocolate from Main Street Bagels, only available the day of the Grand Junction Parade of Lights.

Sunshine Year Round

One of the standout features of Grand Junction is the abundance of sunshine throughout the year. I believe the stat is 300+ days of sunshine? Unlike the gloomy winters experienced in some states, the Grand Valley enjoys a remarkable amount of sunshine. No more seasonal depression brought on by cloudy grey skies here. Yay Colorado desert!

Warm But Not Too Hot

You might consider New Mexico, Nevada, or Arizona as your warm weather destination. But those places can be really hot! Almost unbearably so. I had a friend move from Minnesota to AZ with her husband after she retired. Every summer she spent indoors to be in the air conditioning. Similar to when Minnesota residents “hibernate” until spring. It was too hot for her to enjoy Arizona year-round. She ended up moving back to Minnesota.

It gets warm in Grand Junction but not so hot that you can’t enjoy the summer outdoors. Yes, you have to keep yourself hydrated and be aware of how you feel if you go up in the higher elevations (read my post about Avoiding Altitude Sickness). But it’s a “dry heat”. Read what it means to be in the Colorado desert on my Grand Junction Weather post. We don’t have the high humidity like the southeastern United States.

Redefining Retirement Expectations

Grand Junction, with its mild winters, abundant sunshine, and a perfect balance of seasons, challenges the traditional notion of needing a warm destination for retirement. If you’re ready to redefine your retirement expectations and embrace a diverse and enjoyable lifestyle, consider living in Grand Junction as your next home. Read my post about summer weather in Grand Junction.

The Grand Valley has something to offer everyone, making it a truly special place to begin this new chapter of your life. Please connect with me early in your destination search and allow me to show you all the Grand Valley can offer.

Read my posts about the many reasons to choose Fruita, Grand Junction or Palisade. I can help you find just the right property in Mesa County.

Let me help you, Move to Grand Junction!

We’ve been waiting for you!

Text/Call 612-306-9558 with your questions.

Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE

In November, we rented a Polaris RZR ATV and got to ride on trails all day in Moab, UT. We went to Uranium Arch and other great spots. A fantastic winter activity with family and friends! It was a little muddy the day we went because it had just snowed, but it was so beautiful!

© 2023 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR® MovetoGrandJunction.com. Copyright protected. All Rights Reserved.

Uranium Arch in Moab, UT

Moab ATV Riding

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Property Tax Programs for Colorado Seniors

Property Tax Programs for Colorado Seniors

For seniors who live in Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade and the entire state of Colorado, navigating the intricacies of property taxes can be a significant concern. The good news is that there are property tax programs for Colorado seniors to alleviate some of the financial pressures of homeownership.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into these programs, and how they can help older residents manage their property tax burdens. Although I personally still have some time before turning 65, these programs were some things my wife and I investigated when considering our move to Grand Junction, CO.

I also have my Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation. It shows that as a REALTOR® I am able to meet the needs of maturing Americans when selling, buying, relocating, or refinancing residential or investment properties. By earning the SRES® designation, I am prepared to serve mature clients with the best options and information for them to make life-changing decisions.

Property Tax ValuesProperty Tax Relief Programs for Colorado Seniors

Colorado offers several property tax relief programs tailored to its senior citizens. These programs provide much-needed financial support to seniors who may be struggling with property tax payments.

  1. The Senior Homestead Exemption

The Senior Homestead Exemption is one of the most advantageous property tax programs for Colorado seniors. This program allows homeowners aged 65 or older to exempt 50% of the first $200,000 from the actual value of their primary residence. However, there are also some eligibility requirements:

  • The qualifying senior must be at least 65 years of age as of January 1 of the year of application.
  • The qualifying senior must occupy the property as his or her primary residence and be the owner of record and must have done so for at least ten consecutive years prior to January 1 of the tax year. Limited exceptions to the ownership and occupancy requirements are detailed in the qualifications section of the application.

This property tax relief initiative significantly eases the burden for seniors.

  1. Property Tax Deferral for Grand Junction Seniors

Seniors who live in Grand Junction and are facing financial challenges can benefit from the Property Tax Deferral program, specifically designed for their needs. This initiative enables homeowners over the age of 65 to defer payment of their property taxes until the property is sold or ownership is transferred.

  1. Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption

While not exclusive to seniors, the Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption is an essential program to mention, as it can be of great interest to older veterans and Gold Star Spouses. Disabled veterans aged 65 or older may be eligible for property tax exemptions, adding to the available property tax relief programs.

  1. Senior Citizens and Disabled Property Tax Exemption in Grand Junction

Colorado offers a Senior Citizens and Disabled Property Tax Exemption program, further tailored to the state’s older residents. Eligible seniors aged 65 or older, who have owned and resided in their homes for ten consecutive years can benefit from this program, providing significant property tax relief.

Social and Community Benefits for Grand Junction, Colorado Seniors

Aside from property tax programs, it’s important to mention the social and community benefits that make Colorado a desirable place for seniors to retire. Many Colorado communities provide services, discounts, and programs specifically designed for older residents, fostering a sense of belonging and support during their retirement years.

For Colorado seniors, understanding and taking advantage of property tax programs tailored to their needs is crucial. The state’s property tax relief programs, including the Senior Homestead Exemption, Property Tax Deferral, Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption, and the Senior Citizens and Disabled Property Tax Exemption, can significantly reduce property tax burdens.

Colorado’s commitment to its older citizens extends beyond property tax programs, with numerous social and community benefits that enhance the retirement experience. By utilizing these property tax programs and enjoying the supportive community environment, Colorado seniors living in Grand Junction can make the most of their retirement years. As always, please consult with a CPA or qualified Tax Consultant before making any tax related decisions. Use the links provided to read the most current information about property taxes in Colorado.

Call/text me with your questions! I can help access the MARKET VALUE of your Mesa County property. Ask me more about why retire in Grand Junction Colorado and taxes.

Call/Text: 612-306-9558

Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Serving Mesa County

© 2023 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR® MovetoGrandJunction.com. Copyright protected. All Rights Reserved.

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Retire in Grand Junction Colorado

11 Reasons to Retire in Grand Junction, Colorado (Why So Many Are Moving Here)

why choose to retire in Grand JunctionWhy Choose to retire in Grand Junction Colorado? That is the million dollar question thousands of people are asking themselves right now. Word about the lifestyle, adventures, cost of living, moderate climate and overall quality of life that living in Grand Junction offers has really gained some traction over the past few years.

Grand Junction, Colorado, has emerged as a favored retirement destination for various compelling reasons. Many of these apply to people in all stages of life. And it’s not just about moving to Grand Junction, as Fruita and Palisade are fantastic destinations as well as other cities in Mesa County.

How We Discovered Grand Junction

Before my wife and I moved here, we read about retiring in Grand Junction in a Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Magazine she picked up at the airport. We wanted to learn all about Grand Junction retirement options and benefits.

Did you know that the majority of the population in Mesa County is retirement age? Our median household income and per capita income has been rising since 2017. Mesa County is growing thanks to people migrating here from other states or other regions in Colorado. According to Visit Grand Junction, the number one thing visitors say about Grand Junction is “Your community is so friendly”. Yay!

Thinking about retiring in Grand Junction? Contact us for a FREE Discovery Conversation to explore homes and neighborhoods perfect for your next chapter. Your family will thank you!

So, Why choose to Retire in Grand Junction Colorado? Here’s What We Love:

1. Scenic Beauty

Grand Junction boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, including the Colorado National Monument, the Grand Mesa, the Book Cliff mountains and the Colorado River. Its stunning scenery and mild climate create an irresistible lure for retirees. Spring comes early and fall is long, so there’s plenty of time to be outdoors in this dry climate.

2. Abundance of Outdoor Activities

The Grand Valley offers retirees an incredible array of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and golfing—making it easy to maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle in retirement.

In fact, many residents are surprised to learn that in Grand Junction, it’s often possible to golf year-round thanks to the area’s relatively mild winters and abundant sunshine.

Cycling is especially popular here, with numerous local shops offering cruiser bike and e-bike rentals for all experience levels. One must-do experience is exploring the scenic Colorado Riverfront Trail, which stretches from Fruita through Grand Junction and continues all the way to Palisade—offering miles of paved pathways, river views, and access to parks and open space.

Talbott's Cider Co in Palisade, CO showing variety of hard ciders

I took this picture at Talbott’s Cider Co in Palisade, CO – shows a variety of hard ciders. A must stop on the Fruit and Wine Byway in Palisade

3. Wine Country

Located in the heart of Colorado’s wine country, Grand Junction and Palisade boast 35+ wineries and vineyards, making it an ideal place for retirees who appreciate wine tasting and cultural experiences.

Be sure to investigate the wineries first and choose a winery that offers the type of wine you like. Some specialize in dry wine, fruit wines and wine made from honey!

The Colorado Mountain Wine Fest happens annually in September at Riverbend Park in Palisade. The Colorado Mountain Winefest is not just an event for wine enthusiasts; it’s a celebration of community, cultivation, and the pursuit of excellence in winemaking.

There are many breweries and distilleries too, offering specialty spirits and hard cider, like Talbott’s Farm Market and Tap Room in Palisade located on the scenic Fruit and Wine Byway.

4. Mild Climate

It’s no secret that a mild climate while still enjoying the change of seasons is a top reason why people choose to retire in Grand Junction, Colorado. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, Grand Junction is particularly attractive to those seeking to escape harsh winter weather.

I love the low humidity here in the high desert area of Colorado. I wasn’t expecting what a difference it feels like to have low humidity. Thankfully, it makes being outdoors so much more enjoyable year-round. Great for a Grand Junction retirement!

In fact, it was a 90 degree August day we moved our daughter into her CMU dorm room and we didn’t need to change clothes because we didn’t get that “sticky” feeling! It was eye-opening. However, due to the heat, we did experience one of our new Target purchases melting in the bed of our truck. That was unexpected too!

Learn more about Grand Junction Weather that includes the average high and low temps by month.

5. Affordable Living

Compared to larger cities in Colorado, especially on the front range (Ft. Collins, Boulder, Denver, Colorado Springs area), Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade offer a more affordable cost of living. Housing, utilities, and other expenses are budget-friendly. Discover more about Property Tax savings for seniors and others. They are so much lower here than what we experienced in Minnesota!

I can set you up on an MLS search so you can compare different areas to live within the Grand Valley. I have especially noticed a lower cost for groceries and fresh produce in particular. When you come visit, walk through a City Market and see how it compares to your local grocery store prices.

Luckily for us, Palisade, Grand Junction and Fruita all have wonder Farmers Markets that start during the summer months and provide amazing produce! My wife and I purchase the majority of our fruits and vegetables through local farmers from mid summer into the fall.

6. Access to Quality Healthcare

Grand Junction is home to renowned healthcare facilities, including St. Mary’s Regional Hospital and Community Hospital, ensuring retirees have access to quality healthcare. There is also a hospital in Fruita. St. Mary’s is a regional hospital serving communities 1-2 hours away. Healthcare is Grand Junction’s largest industry with local government, and Colorado Mesa University rounding out the top three largest employers in this region.

7. Cultural Vibrancy

Grand Junction offers a vibrant cultural scene with music festivals, art exhibitions, theaters and local events, providing retirees with entertainment and opportunities for engagement. Many locations offer reduced ticket fees. Mesa County Libraries support cultural programs too. Check out my post about Mesa County Libraries.

8. Welcoming Community

The friendly and welcoming community in Grand Junction fosters a strong sense of belonging and connection for retirees. There are many clubs and organizations you can consider, like the Friends of Mesa County Libraries. And it’s easy to fly here thanks to the convenient Grand Junction airport. Learn more about my Grand Junction airport experience!

why choose to retire in grand junction

Took this photo on our last trip to Arches National Park. We brought our visiting relatives for a tour.

9. Proximity to National Parks

Grand Junction is close to national parks like Arches and Canyonlands in Moab Utah, making Grand Junction an excellent basecamp for exploring the great outdoors during retirement.

Moab, Utah is about 1.5 hours away (90 miles) and is one of the more popular day trip and weeekend destinations for those living in Grand Junction. Ask me about more insider tips on the area.

Don’t forget about the Nation’s least visited National Park, The Black Canyon of the Gunnison. It’s literally like stepping into another world that is only a billion years old.

Fun fact, if you want to know how far you are from the Utah border, simply look at the street signs. 25 Mile Road means you are 25 miles from the border. Sorry about the bizarre half mile roads like 24 1/2 mile.

Unfortunately, I’m not sure why they weren’t more creative when naming the roads around here. Particularly, the really weird ones like F 3/4 road. But I’ll admit, when we visit our friend off of “F ‘n three fourths” we do chuckle saying it out loud.

10. Low Crime Rate

Grand Junction maintains a relatively low crime rate, contributing to retirees’ sense of safety and security. You can learn more by contacting the Grand Junction Police Department directly.

11. Lifelong Learning Opportunities

Retirees in Grand Junction can continue their education through classes at Colorado Mesa University. You can gain access to libraries and cultural institutions. Here’s a link to learn about the CMU Golden Scholars program for persons 60 years of age and over to take courses at a discounted rate without the stress of earning a grade. I love learn something new!

Learn more about “things to do” in Grand Junction, Colorado from the Visit Grand Junction tourism website.

And, great for any age, read about my experience and tips for the Top Day Trips from Grand Junction, with photos!

The combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, affordable living, and a welcoming community positions Grand Junction as an appealing destination for retirees. Especially those seeking a high quality of life and an active retirement. Therefore, prospective retirees should conduct thorough research and visit the area to ensure it aligns with their specific preferences and needs. Ask me about planning a Grand Junction retirement, and how we did a living in Grand Junction experiment before we finally made the move!

I hope you now have a better understanding of why people choose to retire in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Explore the best 55+ Communities in Grand Junction or if you just can’t wait to get here —Don’t Wait! Semi-Retirement in Grand Junction.

Stay informed by watching my short videos and reading announcements on my Facebook page called Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction.

Paul Aspelin standing in front of his Toyota Tacoma, he's your Grand Junction Real Estate GuideLearn more on my Get Started page. Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction!

Text or Call me with your questions! (612) 306-9558 (locally Based)

Book your retirement relocation discovery call today

Paul Aspelin, Relocation & Listing Expert with Realty ONE Group Western Slope
REALTOR®, GRI, SRES®, CNE
Licensed in Colorado – Serving Mesa County

 

⭐ I was recently featured in The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel for my work helping people relocate to Western Colorado.

© 2023 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR® MovetoGrandJunction.com. Copyright protected. All Rights Reserved.

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