
2 Assisted Living Facilities in Cortez, CO
Also serving communities of Dolores.
To help you with your search, browse the 5 reviews below for assisted living facilities in Cortez. On average, consumers rate assisted living in Cortez 4.4 out of 5 stars.
Caring.com has helped thousands of families find high-quality senior care. To speak with one of our Family Advisors about assisted living options and costs in Cortez, call (855) 863-8283.
2 Assisted Living Facilities in Cortez, CO
Vista Mesa Assisted Living
What to Consider About Assisted Living in Cortez
Cortez, Colorado, is a city steeped in history. Visitors from all over the world come to see the massive ancient cities of Mesa Verde National Park, which is located just a few minutes from town. Despite this, there are only about 8,500 residents in this small town. There are a total of three assisted living facilities in the Cortez area, with two inside the town itself. These facilities, which are called assisted living residences by the state, are regulated by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. This agency oversees general rules and policies for assisted living and inspects and licenses individual facilities.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Assisted Living in Cortez
- Cortez's location in southwestern Colorado gives it a relatively moderate climate. Summer days usually stay in the 80s, although the August average high is 89 degrees. Winters can get fairly chilly, but daytime highs are still generally in the 40s. It sees only about 12 inches of rain each year, but it gets about 34 inches of snow.
- Public transportation in Cortez is somewhat limited, but seniors age 60 and older can take advantage of MoCo Public Transportation. This county-operated service provides weekday door-to-door transportation throughout Montezuma County. Seniors need to make an appointment at least one day in advance, and it has a fee schedule based on location. However, low-income seniors can use this service even if they are unable to pay.
- Colorado offers a few tax incentives that can help seniors save money. Retirees age 55 to 64 can deduct $20,000 of their retirement income, and once they turn 65, they can deduct $24,000. There is also no sales tax on groceries, medicine and some medical supplies.
- The Cortez area is home to world-class medical facilities, including Southwest Memorial Hospital, in the event of medical emergencies or illness.
- The violent crime rate in Cortez is significantly lower than both Colorado and U.S. averages, which makes it a relatively safe town for seniors to explore. However, the property crime rate is fairly high. On a scale of 1 to 100, with 100 being high, Cortez averages 51.5, which is well above the U.S. average of 38.1.
- Cortez has an array of community resources for seniors, including Montezuma County Senior Center, which offers low-cost meals, educational services, health insurance assistance and a dental program.
Paying for Assisted Living in Cortez
Average Monthly Costs
Cities in Colorado
Assisted Living costs in Cortez start around $0 per month on average, while the nationwide average cost of assisted living is $4,000 per month, according to the latest figures from Genworth’s Cost of Care Survey.
It’s important to note that assisted living rates in Cortez and the surrounding suburbs can vary widely based on factors such as location, the level of care needed, apartment size and the types of amenities offered at each community.
Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Cortez
Colorado has several programs that may help eligible seniors pay for assisted living, including the Old Age Pension Health and Medical Care Program. Health First Colorado, the state's Medicaid program, also offers special programs such as the Elderly, Blind and Disabled waiver to help extend Medicaid coverage.
Learn more about these programs, plus who’s eligible, on our Assisted Living in Colorado page.


More Ways to Pay for Assisted Living
While many families use their own funds or personal assets to pay for assisted living, there are plenty of additional options to cover these costs. Some additional ways to finance assisted living costs include:
- Veterans Benefits
- Life Insurance Policy
- Long-Term Care Insurance
- Reverse Mortgage
For more information about different ways to finance assisted living, visit our Assisted Living in Colorado page.
Free Assisted Living Resources in Cortez
Cortez and the surrounding area are home to numerous government agencies and non-profit organizations offering help for seniors searching for or currently residing in an assisted living community. These organizations can also provide assistance in a number of other eldercare services such as geriatric care management, elder law advice, estate planning, finding home care and health and wellness programs.
To see a list of free assisted living resources in Cortez, please visit our Assisted Living in Colorado page.
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Cortez
Cortez-area assisted living communities must adhere to the comprehensive set of state laws and regulations that all assisted living communities in Colorado are required to follow. Visit our Assisted Living in Colorado page for more information about these laws.


Assisted Living near Cortez, CO
Other Options in Cortez, CO
Recent Reviews of Assisted Living in Cortez
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Review of Vista Mesa Assisted Living
Vista Mesa Assisted Living is a fairly small place with around 60 residents. Mom is one of the few who attends just their day activity programs and participates in what they have to offer for all t... Read more
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Review of Vista Mesa Assisted Living
Vista Mesa is a friendly and home like facility. My grandmother lives here and she is always well cared for. She is clean and groomed, her room is always clean and has some of the best views in the... Read more
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Review of Vista Mesa Assisted Living
In the last 4 years, Vista Mesa has provided excellent care for my Mother. The staff excels in quality care. The cleanliness is superior. My Mom's room is always spot clean.. I notice the affec... Read more
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