7 Best Places to Live in Denver

It’s no surprise so many people are flocking to the stunning beauty of Denver, with its 300 days of sunshine per year and easy access to the mountains for outdoor adventures. Add the collection of cultural attractions and a thriving economy, and Denver has just the right mix of checkmarks for many seeking to live in a place with an active lifestyle.

Denver and its metro are quite expansive, so we’ve picked a list of the best places to live in Denver to jumpstart your home search. The Mile High City’s many neighborhoods enable all kinds of lifestyles. Find a hip downtown loft or a quiet suburban neighborhood. We’re featuring both plus hot spots with other advantages in our top list.

Why Live in Denver?

From 2011-2018, Metro Denver saw an influx of almost 100,000 new residents! While the numbers moving into town are slowing (just 14,731 new residents in 2021), Denver remains a popular place to move to.

Living in Denver, a major city in Colorado, is well worth the cost for those who can afford it. For one, the views are spectacular, and we’re not talking about the downtown Denver skyline. You get 140 miles of breathtaking mountain vistas in the metro area.

But why just look when you can visit the 200 peaks you can see nearby? Denver’s residents head to the mountains to escape for a day of skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, mountain biking, camping, and more.

Thanks to a dry climate, Denver receives an estimated 300 days of sunshine yearly. Even though the summers are hot, they lack humidity, making them more comfortable and easier to enjoy an active lifestyle.

The great outdoors awaits from Denver’s back door, but sometimes you want to kick back with delicious dishes, bright lights, or loud music. Denver’s got you covered for in-town fun, too. The 22-plus music venues, 85 art galleries, 148+ craft breweries, live theater, and an ever-changing food scene are just a few reasons to live in Denver.

Denver’s drawing people in for these amenities, but also because the economy is growing and providing more opportunities to cover a life-work-play lifestyle. Thriving industries in tech, aerospace, and agriculture deliver well-compensated employment, though hiring can be competitive. Other top markets include cannabis and casual concepts, like fast food chains Noodles & Company and Qdoba.

So, where can you live in Mile High to take in the best of the best? Here are a few top places to live in the friendly city of Denver.

Best Neighborhoods To Live In Denver:

Five Points

Five Points might be your jam if you want to live in a place that hums with activity. This historic neighborhood is a melting pot of everything. Once known as the “Harlem of the West,” the restaurants, shops, live music venues, and coffeehouses make this destination a thriving community to live in. It’s a highly walkable neighborhood helped out by its grid pattern.

Art abounds in the urban street murals and the many art galleries around the district. Attractions in Five Points include the Black American West Museum, which highlights the stories of African Americans in the western US, the numerous craft beer breweries, and the Five Points Jazz Festival. Shop locally each Saturday in the summer at Mo’Betta Greens Marketplace, or take a Welton Street walking tour of the neighborhood to get a sense of its history. It’s also home to some beautiful parks.

Five Points is directly northeast of downtown Denver and near Coors Field, home of the Colorado Rockies MLB team. It was an early Denver suburb, so you’ll find some historic real estate. In January 2023, the 40 homes for sale had a median housing costs of $600,000.

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is renowned for its affordability and accessibility within city limits. Look around and see why over 16,000 residents call this area home: a convenient location in central Denver, plus cultural attractions. Its pinnacle feature is the gold-domed state Capitol building, and Colfax Avenue, the longest street in America, runs through it.

Main attractions include the capitol building and the surrounding museums, like the Denver Art Museum and the historic houses on Millionaire’s Row. But it’s not all government in Capitol Hill, or “Cap Hill,” as the locals know it. Civic Center Park breaks up the concrete with ample green space and beautifully manicured flower beds. The park hosts many festivals and events during the year.

Cap Hill has a trendy vibe with the bars, restaurants, and small shops along Colfax Avenue. That constant influx of visitors browses the used books and vinyl record shops on their way to the Capitol Market.

Capitol Hill is considered to have pretty affordable housing. Many of the real estate offerings in this Denver area are apartments. Single-family homes are given away to new-construction condos and multi-family buildings. In January 2023, the 43 homes for sale had average home values of $391,300.

Golden Triangle

Located beside Cap Hill, the Golden Triangle Creative District is popular with its picturesque streets bordered by lush trees and classic architecture. You won’t be bored living here; there are plenty of cultural attractions like the US Mint. Visit the Denver Art Museum and Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art without paying for parking.

The walkability makes it easy to access the restaurants, coffeehouses, and specialty stores that serve the locals and tourist visitors. The Latin Cuba Cafe and Bar is one of the district’s more popular and unique options.

The skyline in Golden Triangle is an eye-catching mix of modern and classic buildings. Together they create a unique urban oasis that offers something special to behold in every direction! Many of the options here are condo or apartments.

River North Arts District (RiNo)

RiNo, one of Denver’s bubbly art districts, is the perfect destination for culture enthusiasts, with its vibrant cultural scene full of art galleries and music venues. This beloved area “where art is made” has adopted its moniker full-on with rhino-themed art and logos across the walls, coffee shops, and brewpubs sprinkled between the art studios and galleries. The is also the home of The Denver Central Market.

RiNo has no shortage of lively restaurants and bars, making it one of Denver’s trendiest areas! Former warehouses have been converted into upscale spots for live jazz, food halls, and shopping markets. Street art adds an extra layer of vibrancy that draws in large crowds. Not only is RiNo an art incubator, but it’s a stop on the Denver Beer Trail with no fewer than five breweries, wineries, and cideries.

Add in excellent walkability–dedicated two-way bike lanes and eTuks–it’s no wonder why everyone wants to be in this indie heaven! Finding residential real estate is more of a challenge, with many buildings taken over by the district’s attractions. Still, you can find housing options like lofts, urban condos, and single-family homes here.

The Highlands

If you’re looking for an exciting neighborhood where you can experience the past and modern life, this trendy area is it. The Victorian-era buildings mix with parks to give the community a historic feel. Inside the buildings are hip boutique stores, wine shops, antique stores, and art galleries.

Residents can kick back at Sloan’s Lake Park, which is large enough for paddle boarding while admiring the mountain views. Just move over in July for the annual Colorado Dragon Boat Festival.

Families take their kids to the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marisco on Tuesdays for the Free play afternoon. First Fridays bring visitors to the Tennyson Street Cultural District for art walks.

The Highlands has three distinct sub-neighborhoods: Highlands Square, Tennyson Street, and Lower Highland (LoHi). Each has something they are known for. For instance, Tennyson Street is a destination for live music and antique art, while LoHi stands out for how it mixes its architecture with the old and new.

Cherry Creek

Cherry Creek is one of Denver’s most affluent neighborhoods, known for its low crime rates and  boasting numerous upscale restaurants, designer boutiques, and high-end shops. The streets are lined with cherry blossoms in the spring, giving the area its name and plenty of natural beauty.

The Cherry Creek Shopping Center is a large outdoor mall with over 160 chain stores, restaurants, and a movie theater. The Cherry Creek North outdoor retail mall spans 16 blocks with an endless array of home furnishings, art, fashion, and more. The summer Sidewalk Sale is a shopper’s dream.

Besides shopping & restaurants, locals can jump on the Cherry Creek Bike path, which spans 22 miles and connects to the city center. Another attraction is the Denver Botanic Gardens, a green space that hosts concerts and events throughout the year.

The Cherry Creek Arts Festival brings international and local artists together for three days in one of the city’s top summer activities.

The housing includes luxury townhomes, condominiums, and single-family homes. Your choices come in varied architectural styles, with some homes dating to the World War II post-building boom. In January 2023, the 23 homes for sale had a median home price of $1.4M.

Lower Downtown (LoDo)

Denver’s oldest neighborhood, LoDo contains some of the city’s top dining and entertainment options. Rated by Money Magazine as one of the best places to live, its amenities include live music, sports bars, legendary steakhouses, and craft cocktail locations.

Bursting with nightlife, award-winning restaurants, and iconic Denver landmarks such as Union Station, Wynkoop Brewing Company, and Larimer Square, this 23-block area is a thriving destination for locals and visitors.

The Union Station area has a new life as the hub of public transit. Not only can you catch a train or bus, but it has been converted into a live-work-play hub with boutique shops, restaurants, bars, and hotel. The Wynkoop Street area is the home to live music venues. Empower Field, also known as Mile High Stadium, is within walking distance.

LoDo also has the Denver Center of Performing Arts, one of the world’s most influential performing arts complexes and the country’s second-largest entertainment complex under one roof. Four companies call the Complex home, and it’s used by touring acts. The surrounding area can be congested before a big performance, but locals can get in and out easily.

Historic brick and iron-decorated buildings sit beside mixed-use industrial-style spaces. In January 2023, the 112 single-family homes for sale downtown had a median list price of $597,500.

Frequently Asked Questions About Good Places To Live in Denver

What national parks are close to Denver, Colorado?

Denver, Colorado, is known for its vibrant urban lifestyle and proximity to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the United States. Among these are several national parks providing ample outdoor recreation opportunities, making Denver an ideal place for nature enthusiasts. Here are the national parks near Denver:

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is the most famous national park near Denver, located approximately 70 miles northwest of the city. This park is known for its gorgeous mountain scenery, diverse wildlife, and extensive network of hiking trails. Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife viewing, or simply enjoying the majestic landscapes, Rocky Mountain National Park offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Key attractions include Trail Ridge Road, Bear Lake, and Longs Peak.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Although a bit further away, approximately 240 miles from Denver, this park is worth mentioning for its unique and striking landscape. It features the tallest dunes in North America, rising to 750 feet. Visitors can enjoy sandboarding, hiking, and stargazing activities in this remarkable environment.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Located around 250 miles southwest of Denver, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is known for its dramatic cliffs carved by the Gunnison River. There’s an abundance of outdoor recreation activities here, including hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives along the canyon’s rim.

What’s transportation like in Denver, CO?

Transportation in Denver, Colorado, is well-developed and caters to residents and visitors with various options.

The city’s public transit system, managed by the Regional Transportation District (RTD), includes an extensive network of buses and light rail services. The RTD Light Rail system covers significant parts of the Denver metro area, while the SkyRide service connects the airport to different city parts.

Additional transportation options include biking, with numerous bike lanes and trails. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, providing an alternative to driving and public transit.

Many of Denver’s neighborhoods are also pedestrian-friendly, particularly downtown, with well-maintained sidewalks and numerous attractions, restaurants, and shops within walking distance.

Denver International Airport (DEN), one of the largest and busiest airports in the U.S., is located about 25 miles northeast of downtown and provides extensive domestic and international connectivity.

What is the unemployment rate in Denver Colorado?

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in Denver, Colorado, stands at 4.2%. This marks a slight increase from the previous month and a noticeable rise from 3.7% in June 2023.

Denver’s unemployment rate is also one point below the national average, which currently sits at 4.3%. Despite the uptick, Denver’s job market remains robust, with continued job growth in sectors like professional and business services, leisure, and hospitality.

What large cities are located near Denver, Colorado?

Several large cities are near Denver. Each of these enclaves offers unique attractions and amenities. Here are some of the largest cities in the region:

Colorado Springs, CO

Colorado Springs is the second-largest city in Colorado, so of course, it will be included in this list. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods. The city also hosts the U.S. Air Force Academy and has a robust military presence. It is located about 70 miles south of Denver.

Aurora, CO

Aurora is a significant city adjacent to Denver, forming part of the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metropolitan area. It is known for its diverse communities, extensive parks, and cultural attractions.

Fort Collins, CO

Situated about 65 miles north of Denver, Fort Collins is known for its vibrant downtown, Colorado State University, and numerous outdoor recreational activities. The city is a hub for craft breweries and has a strong local culture.

Boulder, CO

Boulder is famous for its picturesque setting at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Its vibrant culture scene and the University of Colorado Boulder are significant highlights in the area. The city is also known for its commitment to environmental sustainability. Boulder real estate is 28 miles northwest of Denver.

Salt Lake City, UT

While Salt Lake City is not immediately adjacent to Denver, it is a significant city in the region, located about 519 miles west of Denver. As the capital of Utah, Salt Lake City is known for its beautiful mountain views, outdoor recreation opportunities, and its historical significance to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Are schools any good in Denver?

The quality of public schools in Denver, Colorado, is highly regarded, with several districts earning top marks for their educational performance. Denver Public Schools (DPS) is the largest district, serving over 90,250 students across more than 200 schools.

Notable schools in DPS include Denver School of the Arts and East High School, which are recognized for their academic excellence and college readiness. DPS has made significant strides in improving graduation rates and implementing comprehensive programs to support student success.

Cherry Creek School District, located in the southeastern suburbs of Denver, is a shining example of academic excellence. The district is known for its high-performing schools, such as Cherry Creek High School and Grandview High School, which are consistently in the school rankings among the best in Colorado, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Douglas County School District serves the southern suburbs and includes top-rated schools like Rock Canyon High School and Mountain Vista High School. Both districts are praised for their rigorous academic programs, high graduation rates, and extensive extracurricular activities, making them popular choices for families looking to invest in homes for sale in Denver.

Is Denver more affordable than San Francisco?

Denver is significantly more affordable than San Francisco, particularly when it comes to housing prices. The average home price in Denver is around $576,000, which is above the national average but still below San Fran, where the average housing price is approximately $1,4 million, over twice as expensive.

Furthermore, the overall cost of living in San Francisco is about 90.9% higher than in Denver. This includes higher costs in utilities, transportation, and groceries. For example, monthly utilities for a standard apartment in Denver are about $190, compared to $253 in San Francisco.

What are the best parks in the city of Denver?

Denver is home to undisputable beauty & parks. With approximately 339 parks offering a variety of recreational opportunities and beautiful landscapes. These are among the most popular ones:

• Washington Park: Washington Park, affectionately known as “Wash Park,” is one of Denver’s most popular parks. It covers 165 acres and features two lakes, flower gardens, walking and biking trails, and tennis courts. The park’s recreation center offers fitness classes and activities, making it a favorite spot for relaxation and exercise.
• Denver Mountain Parks: The Denver Mountain Parks system encompasses over 14,000 acres of natural beauty spread across the Front Range. Highlights include Red Rocks Park, known for its natural amphitheater, and Lookout Mountain Park, offering stunning views and historic sites. These parks provide hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• City Park – Denver: City Park is a historic urban park that spans 330 acres and is home to the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. It is considered the largest park in Denver.  The park features lakes, playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. It is a central location for community events and festivals throughout the year.
• Cheesman Park: Located near downtown Denver, Cheesman Park offers 80 acres of green space with scenic views of the city and the mountains. It is a peaceful spot for jogging, picnicking, and enjoying the gardens. The park is adjacent to the Denver Botanic Gardens, adding to its appeal.
• Sloan’s Lake Park: Sloan’s Lake Park, encompassing 177 acres, is centered around the city’s largest lake. It provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The park features trails for walking and biking, playgrounds, and sports fields, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Confluence Park: Confluence Park is situated at the confluence of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River. It is a hub for water activities like kayaking and tubing, as well as biking and walking along the adjacent trails. The park is also known for its scenic views and proximity to downtown Denver.
• Observatory Park: Observatory Park, located in the University Park neighborhood, is home to the historic Chamberlin Observatory. The park offers open spaces for picnicking, playgrounds, and tennis courts. It is a great spot for stargazing events hosted by the local astronomy community.
• Civic Center Park: Civic Center Park is located in the heart of Denver, surrounded by historic buildings and cultural institutions. The park is known for its beautiful architecture, fountains, and gardens. It is a central location for public events, including festivals, parades, and concerts.

How’s the air quality in Denver?

Denver’s air quality varies, with periods of moderate pollution primarily due to ozone and particulate matter. From 2018 to 2019, the city experienced over 260 days of air quality exceeding government standards. Wildfires, power plants, and transportation contribute significantly to these issues. Despite this, efforts to improve air quality are ongoing, including new regulations and increased use of cleaner energy.

Moving to Denver

Bursting with culture, live music, and entertainment, Denver is a great place to live and work! Whether it’s the energy and liveliness of Lower Downtown, the Colorado mountain feel of The Highlands, or the historical charm of Five Points, Denver offers plenty of options for potential residents. So why not come experience all that Denver has to offer? Let a local real estate agent show you around its many neighborhoods or explore more about living in Colorado.