The Colorado luxury market is always evolving, and right now, it’s being shaped by one powerful force: generational trends. From millennials buying their first homes to boomers passing the torch, each generation brings different needs and priorities to the table. Understanding these shifts not only helps buyers and sellers today, but also provides a glimpse into the future of Colorado real estate.
Millennials: A Growing Force in the Market
Millennials have officially reclaimed their spot as the largest group of homebuyers. Many are buying for the first time, and they’re bringing new expectations with them. Convenience and lifestyle are top of mind—commuting costs, proximity to work, and easy access to amenities often weigh more heavily than square footage (2).
For Colorado sellers, this means that features like updated kitchens, energy efficiency, and low-maintenance living are big selling points. Millennials also represent a wave of educated professionals—78% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher (2)—so they’re often analytical, prepared, and intentional in their search.
Gen X: The Multigenerational Buyers
Gen Xers, often called the “sandwich generation,” are balancing multiple responsibilities. They’re raising children while caring for aging parents, which makes flexible living space essential. It’s no surprise that 21% of Gen X buyers are choosing multigenerational homes (1)(2).
In Castle Pines, Castle Rock, and throughout Colorado, these buyers are drawn to properties with guest suites, separate living areas, and even dual offices. With the highest household income of any generation—$130,000 on average (1)(2)—they’re positioned to purchase larger, more versatile homes. Sellers can stand out by showcasing how a home adapts to evolving family needs.
Baby Boomers: Opening Up Inventory
Baby Boomers remain the largest group of home sellers—more than half of homes sold last year came from this generation (2). Many are ready to downsize, relocate, or move closer to family. This shift plays an important role in freeing up inventory across Colorado’s luxury market.
For communities like Castle Pines or Cherry Hills, that often means larger estate homes are coming to market, creating opportunities for younger buyers. At the same time, boomers are seeking lock-and-leave residences, townhomes, and golf-course communities that fit a more streamlined lifestyle.
The Emerging and the Exiting
On one end of the spectrum, Gen Z is stepping into the market, albeit slowly—just 3% of buyers (2). These are often younger professionals purchasing older, more affordable homes with family support. On the other end, the Silent Generation is focusing on senior-related housing, representing 4% of buyers, with many opting for age-targeted communities (2).
What This Means for Colorado
Put simply: the market is being driven by transition. Millennials are fueling demand, Gen X is expanding into bigger homes, and Boomers are downsizing. These shifts create both opportunity and competition across price points.
For buyers, this means preparing for diverse competition. For sellers, it means tailoring your home’s story to appeal to who’s most likely to buy it—whether that’s a millennial professional seeking move-in ready space, or a Gen X family looking for flexibility.
Ford Fountain Team Insight
Here in Colorado—especially in Castle Pines, Castle Rock, and the Denver luxury market—these generational shifts are visible in every neighborhood. You may see one neighbor downsizing, another upsizing, and a millennial family moving in just down the street.
At the Ford Fountain Team, we know how these transitions ripple across communities. They influence not only property values, but also the buying power of families, the choices of neighbors, and the opportunities for relocators entering our state. Our role is to help you navigate these changes with confidence—whether you’re selling a legacy home, buying your first, or finding the right fit for a multigenerational household.
✅ Want to see how generational shifts may affect your next move? Connect with the Ford Fountain Team to position your property—or your offer—for success in today’s evolving market.
SOURCES:
(1) 2025 Mid-Year Luxury Outlook Report from LIV Sotheby's International Realty (https://www.luxuryoutlook.com/2025-mid-year-luxury-outlook-report/an-eye-on-the-market).
(2) National Association of REALTORS Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends Report (https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/home-buyer-and-seller-generational-trends).
