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Why trust this guide?
Our editorial team analyzed 225 nursing homes in CO using CMS data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank nursing homes in CO
Info below is compiled from CMS reports & the CO Dept. of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE), senior community websites & trusted data sources such as Walk Score & BBB.
Communities are listed from highest-ranked to lowest-ranked based on our methodology.
The facility name. Click to view the full profile page on Assisted Living Magazine, including photos, services, and contact info.
CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the federal agency that regulates nursing homes) Overall 5-star rating — a composite of Health Inspection, Staffing, and Quality Measures scores. 5 stars = top 10% nationally. 1 star = bottom 10%. The single most important number to start with when comparing facilities.
Care Types in This TableAL (Assisted Living):
Housing with help for daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication, without 24-hour skilled nursing.
NH (Nursing Home):
24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs.
SNF (Skilled Nursing Facility):
Round-the-clock nursing care, often for recovery after surgery, injury, or illness.
MC (Memory Care):
Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia.
RC (Respite Care):
Short-term temporary care that gives family caregivers a break.
IL (Independent Living):
Community living with dining, activities, and transportation for active seniors who need little personal care.
HOS (Hospice Care):
Comfort-focused care for those with a terminal illness, prioritizing quality of life over treatment.
PC (Palliative Care):
Comfort-focused care for serious illness at any stage, including alongside curative treatment.
CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community):
A campus with multiple care levels so residents can age in place without moving.
Neighborhood or city area where the facility is located. Proximity to family, hospitals, and green space matters for both quality of life and ease of visitation. Consider drive time and transit access when evaluating location.
Licensed bed capacity. Larger facilities (300+ beds) often have more specialized programs but can feel institutional. Smaller homes (under 150 beds) tend to deliver more personalized care. Compare with Avg Res/Day to understand how full the facility typically runs.
Percentage of licensed beds filled on an average day. Color indicates financial health: green (90%+) = operationally strong, typically profitable. Amber (80–89%) = stable but leaving revenue on the table. Orange (70–79%) = financial strain likely, may struggle with fixed costs. Red (<70%) = significant distress, closure or ownership change risk increases sharply.
This facility's occupancy rate compared to the statewide average for similar facilities. A positive number means above-average demand. Facilities running 5%+ above the state average are typically the most sought-after in their market — a strong proxy for reputation.
CMS-adjusted total nurse hours per resident per day (RN + LPN + CNA combined). The national average is approximately 3.5 hrs. Higher is better — more direct care time per resident. Below 3.0 is a red flag. CMS weights RN hours more heavily because RNs handle complex clinical decisions that CNAs cannot.
A 0–100 score of a facility's regulatory inspection record, shown as a letter and compared with other facilities of the same kind in the same state. This is a proprietary Assisted Living Magazine grade. It is not a government rating. A dash means we have no inspection data for that facility.
CMS Health Inspection star rating (1–5 stars), based on the 3 most recent annual state surveys plus any complaint investigations. This is the hardest rating to manipulate — it reflects real surveyor findings on-site. 5 stars = fewest deficiencies found. 1 star = most. It carries the heaviest weight in the Overall CMS rating.
CMS Staffing star rating (1–5 stars), based on daily nurse staffing hours submitted to CMS via verified payroll data. Compares RN, LPN, and CNA coverage relative to resident acuity level. 5 stars = well above expected staffing. Weekend staffing is evaluated separately, as that's where many facilities quietly reduce coverage.
CMS Quality Measures star rating (1–5 stars), based on 15 clinical outcome metrics including fall rates, pressure ulcers, antipsychotic drug use, and hospital readmissions. Captures actual resident health outcomes, not just compliance. High QM combined with low Health Inspection scores can indicate a facility with strong care but weak documentation practices.
Registered Nurse hours per resident/day compared to the statewide average. RNs are the highest-skilled nursing staff — they assess residents, manage medications, and respond to emergencies. A value of +50% means RN coverage is 50% above the state norm. Negative values are a concern for residents with complex or acute medical needs.
Total nursing staff hours (RN + LPN + CNA combined) per resident/day vs. the statewide average. A broader measure than RN vs State — it captures the entire care team. A facility can have high total staffing but low RN hours, meaning more aides and fewer nurses. Read both columns together for the full picture.
Total dollar amount of federal monetary fines (civil money penalties) issued by CMS in the past 3 years. Fines are only levied for serious violations — typically actual harm to residents, repeated uncorrected deficiencies, or systemic non-compliance. Even a single fine is noteworthy. Multiple fines strongly suggest a pattern, not isolated incidents.
Total health deficiency citations from the most recent standard inspection cycle. Minor citations (scope A–C) are common and often administrative in nature. Higher counts aren't always disqualifying, but should be read alongside Severe Citations to understand actual harm levels. Under 10 is strong for a large facility; 30+ warrants a closer look.
Average deficiency citations per CMS inspection (survey) in the reporting window — total citations divided by the number of inspections. Lower is better; compare alongside total Citations and Severe Citations for context.
Citations at CMS scope/severity level G or higher — G–I means actual harm occurred; J–L means residents were placed in immediate jeopardy. (D–F is potential for harm only). Examples include unaddressed falls, medication errors causing injury, neglect, or abuse.
Average number of residents in the building on any given day, derived from annual census data. Reflects true operating scale — a 400-bed facility running 200 residents/day operates very differently from one at 390. Higher resident counts generally mean more funded staffing hours.
Better Business Bureau rating (A+ to F). Reflects complaint history, business transparency, and how family disputes were resolved. A+ means no significant unresolved complaints. A blank (—) means the facility isn't BBB-accredited, which is common for healthcare providers and not necessarily a negative signal.
Walk Score® (0–100). Measures walkability of the surrounding area. 90–100 = Walker's Paradise. 70–89 = Very Walkable. 50–69 = Somewhat Walkable. Below 50 = Car-Dependent. Higher scores benefit family visitors, resident outings, and staff commuting.
The licensed owner or operator of record filed with CMS — the individual or organization legally accountable for the facility. Searching the operator name across other facilities can reveal chain or multi-site ownership, which matters: chain-operated homes tend to have more variable quality outcomes than independently run facilities.
What the home actually collects for resident care, after contractual allowances, bad debt and discounts — not gross billings. Taken from the latest complete annual cost report, so it is comparable across homes reporting the same period. Revenue alone doesn't indicate care quality, but it funds staffing and capital reinvestment. Pair with Payroll %. Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
Staff salaries plus wage-related benefits from the latest complete annual cost report. Contract and agency labour is counted separately, under other operating costs, so a home leaning on agency staff can show a low figure here. Payroll is the cost most directly tied to care quality — compare with Payroll % for full context. Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
Payroll as a share of NET PATIENT REVENUE (not gross revenue). Both figures come from the same cost-report year. A higher figure means more of each revenue dollar goes to staff pay. Read with the Staffing star rating to judge whether spend translates into coverage — and note that homes whose patient revenue covers only part of their operation can read implausibly high. The Colorado average is: 63.5% Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
CMS Certification Number: the unique federal identifier for this skilled nursing provider.
$14.8M*Fiscal year ending 12/2022These figures are from this home's most recent complete cost report — an older period than most facilities report. Compare with that in mind.
$6.9M*Fiscal year ending 12/2022These figures are from this home's most recent complete cost report — an older period than most facilities report. Compare with that in mind.
46.7%*Fiscal year ending 12/2022These figures are from this home's most recent complete cost report — an older period than most facilities report. Compare with that in mind.
Rank badges are statewide and care-type specific: each nursing home is ranked against every other CO nursing home we track that reports that metric, not just the 225 on this page. See how we rank facilities
Holly Creek prides itself on practicing a ‘colorful Colorado living’; they strive to make a positive impact in the lives of each resident; they are ready to attend to any needs an individual may have. The staff encourages residents to take part in enriching and engaging activities that cultivate their personal growth during their golden years. The retirement home offers a home-like atmosphere that can provide all the essential benefits for its residents, as they make it a point to enhance the lifestyle of every resident and elevate their daily living.
The vibrant lifestyle of all-inclusive amenities includes daily delicious and nutritious meals, weekly housekeeping and laundry services, furnished independent living apartments, daily fitness activities with their finest gym equipment, transportation, 24-hour care and supervision, a library, and three restaurants available on-site.
Boulder Post Acute runs a 162-bed nursing home in Boulder, Colorado, providing skilled nursing and secure memory care. Memory care units offer direct oversight in a protected environment designed for individuals living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Dedicated short-term rehabilitation services assist residents during post-acute recovery.
Operations run under administrator Aaron Carlson and operator Mesa Vista Healthcare. Direct nursing care averages 4 hours and 27 minutes per resident daily. On-site facilities include expansive outdoor courtyards, communal living areas, and a Behavioral Health program.
Set in a neighborhood with a 98 walk score, the location enables residents to handle day-to-day errands on foot. Funding options cover Medicare, Medicaid, and direct private payment.
Prospective residents can get in touch with Boulder Post Acute to ask about bed availability, review insurance coverage, or plan a tour of the grounds.
Overview of Westlake Lodge Health and Rehabilitation
Administered by Matthew Gordon, Westlake Lodge Health and Rehabilitation is a nursing home in Greeley, Colorado, that offers skilled nursing and rehabilitation. The community also accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay, providing coverage options for older adults needing short-term rehabilitation or longer-term nursing care. It has 107 beds in a variety of private and semi-private rooms within a single-story building, with an average length of stay of 152 days, reflecting a stronger focus on longer-term care.
Care services are structured around both rehabilitation and ongoing nursing support for older adults, including short-stay recovery, long-term care, therapy services, discharge planning, and psychosocial, respite, palliative, and hospice support. Furthermore, the care team consists of attending physicians and registered nurses, with an average of about 3 hours and 5 minutes of nursing care per resident each day. Daily living is also supported through restaurant-style dining, housekeeping, laundry, a salon, internet access, pharmaceutical delivery, and shared lounge spaces.
An active resident council also gives older adults a voice in discussions about care quality, activities, and community policies. Its surrounding area is slightly walkable, with a Walk Score of 39, indicating that only a few services are accessible on foot, while most errands require transportation.
Inspection reports generally highlighted concerns related to medication administration accuracy, timely completion of prescribed treatments, and maintenance of mechanical systems and shared areas. Families considering Westlake Lodge are encouraged to ask how medication management and treatment follow-through are monitored on a daily basis.
Overview of The Rehabilitation Center at Sandalwood
The Rehabilitation Center at Sandalwood in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, delivers skilled nursing, nursing home care, respite care, hospice, and palliative care. Rehabilitation services support residents undergoing physical recovery following a hospital stay, surgery, or illness. Short-term respite stays accommodate individuals whose primary caregivers require temporary relief.
Swops operates the 103-bed location under the leadership of administrator Angela Byrne. Staffing data reflects an average of 4 hours and 1 minute of daily nurse coverage per resident across the building. Financial arrangements include Medicare, Medicaid, and direct private payment to assist with program costs.
Families can connect with The Rehabilitation Center at Sandalwood to confirm room availability, request additional clinical details, or schedule a tour to view the area.
Life Care Center of Littleton is a skilled nursing and nursing home facility in Littleton, CO. Skilled nursing provides licensed nursing care on site around the clock for residents who need ongoing medical support. The community may be a good fit for someone who needs nursing care alongside rehabilitation services.
Life Care Center of Littleton has 120 beds. Total nurse staffing is 4h 31m per resident/day, representing the daily nursing time assigned per resident. Sara Dent serves as the administrator.
Inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation are available, so residents can receive rehabilitation during a stay and people who do not live at the community can also use outpatient services. A beauty salon and barber shop allow residents to receive grooming services on site. Payment options are Medicaid, Medicare, and private pay; Medicare covers short-term skilled care after a hospital stay, while Medicaid and private pay support other payment arrangements listed by the facility.
Overview of Veterans Community Living Center at Fitzsimons
Veterans Community Living Center at Fitzsimons in Aurora offers nursing home and skilled nursing care, assisted living, hospice care, memory care, and respite care. Skilled nursing provides licensed nursing care on site around the clock. Assisted living helps with bathing, dressing, and medication while residents keep their own living space; memory care provides a secured setting with supervision for someone at risk of wandering, hospice care focuses on comfort during a terminal illness, and respite care offers a short stay when a usual caregiver needs to travel or recover.
There are 180 beds here. A community of this size has more residents and staff, and usually more programming, than a smaller home. The range of care types can suit someone whose needs change over time, including a resident who may eventually need a more supervised setting or short term support. Raenell Lynn Simmons serves as the administrator.
Medicaid, Medicare, and private pay are accepted, giving families several ways to cover care. Medicare applies to short term skilled care after a hospital stay rather than long term residence. Total nurse staffing is 5 hours and 42 minutes per resident per day, representing the daily hands on nursing time allocated to each resident. A Walk Score of 67 means the area is somewhat walkable, with some errands possible on foot, so a resident who no longer drives may still be able to make some nearby trips independently.
Center at Lowry operates a 96-bed nursing facility in Denver, Colorado, delivering skilled nursing care paired with physical rehabilitation programs. Clinical care combines with physical therapy to support residents working to regain strength, improve mobility, or manage complex recovery needs following a hospital stay. Private suites are available to give individuals personal living space during their care.
Under administrator Stacey L. Love, the center records an average of 4 hours and 18 minutes of daily nurse staffing per resident. Everyday amenities include meals prepared by an executive chef and an on-site beauty salon for personal grooming needs. Financial options cover Medicare coverage for qualifying stays as well as private payment arrangements.
Prospective families can contact the admissions office at Center at Lowry to gather details about physical therapy offerings, private room availability, and accepted payment arrangements.
Aviva at Fitzsimons is more than just a care facility. It’s a community where seniors can enjoy life to the fullest. With top-notch skilled nursing services Aviva provides comprehensive care to ensure residents receive the best care possible. They also offer post-acute kidney care and ventilator & tracheostomy care.
Residents may spend their day in a golf putting green, an onsite café, the fitness center, the onsite chapel, or the salon and barbershop. These amenities are designed to enhance residents’ quality of life and provide them with delightful experiences. Aviva at Fitzsimons’ featured private suites allow residents to enjoy their own space and privacy as well. They come equipped with cable, phone, and WiFi, so residents can stay connected with their loved ones. Housekeeping and laundry services are also available to make life easier and more convenient for seniors.
Situated in the heart of Denver, Colorado, Denver North Care Center is a skilled nursing community renowned for its person-centered approach to rehabilitation and long-term care. Catering to the needs of individuals in Denver and the nearby regions, this skilled nursing facility is committed to cultivating an environment that emphasizes care, healing, and overall wellness. With a diverse array of care options available, including specialized short-term rehabilitation and comprehensive long-term nursing care, the community prioritizes the well-being of the “whole person,” extending its support to individuals facing behavioral health challenges. To enhance the quality of life for residents, the community offers specialized respiratory therapy for optimal lung health and telemedicine services for added convenience and expertise. On-site physician visits are also readily available to ensure proficient medical oversight and seamless coordination of care. Denver North Care Center has a team of compassionate on-site therapists and clinical professionals dedicated to providing attentive care and treatment for a wide range of medical needs and conditions, particularly those requiring therapeutic intervention following hospitalization. Focused on promoting successful recoveries and ensuring a smooth transition back to their homes, the facility’s therapy program places an emphasis on individualized care and empowerment. Additionally, the skilled nursing team at Denver North Care Center is adept at providing complex clinical care, such as IV (Infusion) therapy, wound care, and comprehensive chronic disease management. Denver North Care Center takes immense pride in its unwavering commitment to the well-being of residents, striving to deliver exceptional care and support throughout their stay.
Receive the care and assistance for your special needs with Life Care Center of Westminster in Zenobia Court, Westminster, CO, offering skilled nursing and rehabilitation. The community works hard to help seniors with their daily living activities, ensuring they are well-cared for 24/7. With comprehensive care services including fall prevention, wound care, infection management, and post-surgical care, families can keep their peace of mind and seniors live without worries.
A robust calendar of enjoyable activities and engaging programs accompanies residents as they explore new interests and maintain an active lifestyle. Here, residents enjoy fine dining with healthy and delectable meals that satisfy their cravings and dietary needs. Life Care Center of Westminster is great for seniors looking for various care services surrounded by incredible amenities.
Every nursing home above is evaluated across five weighted categories using CMS data including Care Compare, Payroll-Based Journal, and Medicare Cost Reports. Rank badges compare each home against other nursing homes in the same state — never against assisted living, memory care, or independent living communities.
How we're paid:If we help you find a home and you move in, that home may pay us a referral fee. This never affects where they rank or what you pay. Learn more
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Homes in Colorado
What's the difference between assisted living and a nursing home in Colorado?
Assisted living in Colorado is a residential model focused on housing, hospitality, and help with daily activities. Nursing homes (skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses for residents with significant health needs, and are regulated more strictly under both state and federal CMS rules.
Does Colorado Medicaid cover nursing home care?
Yes — Colorado Medicaid covers nursing home care for residents who meet income, asset, and medical-need eligibility requirements. Most CMS-certified nursing homes accept Medicaid as a primary payer once long-term-care eligibility is established.
What is nursing home care?
Nursing homes (also called skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses, rehabilitation services, and long-term custodial care for residents with significant health or functional needs.
How many nursing homes are listed on this page?
This page features 225 nursing homes in Colorado. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.
How do I choose the right nursing home in Colorado?
Start by matching the level of care offered to the resident's current and anticipated needs, then compare licensing status, staff-to-resident ratios, recent inspection results, and pricing. Tour at least two or three communities in Colorado, talk to current residents and families, and confirm what is included in the base rate versus billed as add-on services.
What should I look for when visiting nursing homes in Colorado?
Pay attention to staff interactions with residents, cleanliness and odor, food quality at meal times, the activity calendar, and how questions about pricing and care plans are answered. Ask to see the most recent state inspection report, the move-out / level-of-care-change policy, and a sample monthly bill that lists every fee.
If you move into a community through us, that community may pay us a referral fee. This never changes your cost or which options we recommend. Learn more
Nursing Homes in Colorado at a glance
Avg Overall CMS Rating:3.1/ 5The average Overall CMS Rating for all CMS-certified nursing homes in Colorado. Ratings combine health inspections, staffing, and quality measures, with inspections weighted most. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average:3.2/ 5
Avg Staffing Rating:3.0/ 5The average Staffing Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Colorado. Reflects nursing staff hours per resident per day (including RNs), adjusted for residents' care needs. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average:3.4/ 5
Avg Health Insp. Rating:2.8/ 5The average Health Inspection Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Colorado. Based on each facility's recent inspections and complaint investigations, weighing the number, scope, and severity of deficiencies. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average:3.0/ 5
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