Agent Headshot

By Melanie Ortiz Reyes - Content Specialist - PrimeStreet.io

Moving to Denver

Where to Live in the Mile High City

Thinking about moving to Denver, Colorado? You're not alone! Situated at the base of the Rocky Mountains, The Mile High City has constant exposure to beautiful landscapes. 

Denver is known for its healthy and active lifestyle, thriving arts and cultural scene, and robust economy. It also consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the United States, thanks to its excellent schools and a strong sense of community. 

A large number of its residents generally report that their lives are fulfilling and happy, which indicates a high level of happiness. According to a 2021 survey by the website WalletHub, Denver ranked as the 17th happiest city in the United States based on factors such as emotional and physical well-being, income, community, and environment. 

Due to its strong economy and variety of outdoor activities, Denver also scored highly in quality of life surveys in recent years. Locals say Denver offers a unique blend of exciting, dynamic, historic, sustainable, and creative experiences. Denver is considered a young city! According to the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, the median age in Denver is 34 years old, lower than the national average of 38. This is often attributed to the many college students and young professionals residing here.

A number of factors have contributed to the steady increase in the population of Denver over the last few years, including its strong economy and high quality of life. According to the United States Census Bureau, the estimated population of Denver in 2021 was approximately 728,650. This makes Denver the 19th most populous city in the United States. 

This city is attracting more and more buyers each day and has many options to meet everyone's unique requirements. With so many neighborhoods to choose from, it's crucial to work with a knowledgeable and dependable real estate agent in Denver who specializes in your needs and is committed to guiding you in the right direction. Unsure on how to start the homebuying process? Make sure you take a gander at our tips for making that purchase. 

So why is Denver becoming so increasingly popular? Here are some reasons why people are attracted to this city:

  • Location: Denver is centrally located, making it a convenient hub for travel. Located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, outdoor activities like biking, hiking, snowboarding, and skiing are more accessible. Over 15 million people visited Denver's ski resorts last year!
     
  • Education: Denver is currently the 5th most educated city in the U.S. There are many universities in Denver, including the University of Denver, which is in the top 100 US institutions.
     
  • Young Attitude: Denver is becoming the home of many millennials (about 10,000 each year), making it a hot spot for craft breweries and trendy restaurants. Known as the best beer city in America, Denver brews approximately 200 beers a day!
     
  • Great Weather: With a desert climate, Denver residents enjoy 245 days of sunshine per year, exceeding the national average of 205 days. There's very little humidity in the summer, and the winters are moderate, making winter sports more enjoyable.
     
  • Neighborhoods: Denver is known for its relaxed vibe yet fast-paced living. With a booming restaurant scene, both the Highlands and the Lower Highlands have become desirable areas to live in. For art lovers, we recommend River North as it's decorated with street art and the home of plenty of bars, making it known for its hipster vibe.

Find an Agent

What's Special About Denver?

Sports, scenery, and climate!

Some of the most important sights and landmarks can be found in Denver. These include Union Station, the Oxford Hotel, and the Colorado State Capital. You can also enjoy the views at the famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Confluence Park, where William Greeneberry "Green" Russell began his search for gold in 1858. And let's not forget Denver is the home of Rocky Mountain National Park which attracted over 4 million visitors in 2018.

When it comes to suburbs, here are just a few to consider:

  • Aurora: As one of the biggest cities in Colorado, the options for safe neighborhoods, great schools, and affordable housing are vast. The best part of Aurora? It's a short commute to Denver!
     
  • Lakewood: If you're a hiking enthusiast and enjoy outdoor activities, Lakewood is right up your alley! Interested in camping? The drive from Lakewood to the mountains is shorter as well. Lakewood is also a popular shopping destination with a diverse economy.
     
  • Centennial: This suburb is known for housing options, events, excellent schools, and a diverse restaurant scene, with options ranging from upscale dining to casual eateries.
     
  • Littleton: A charming historic town with many Victorian-era buildings. It's also home to the Hudson Gardens, which offer botanical gardens and a beautiful butterfly garden. Over 15,000 species of plants from around the world can be found here!
     
  • Westminster: Offers a mix of suburban and urban living with easy access to Denver and Boulder. It’s considered a thriving city with a high quality of life.

Looking to retire? Both Douglas and Jefferson County are among the best counties in Colorado to enjoy your retirement.

Find an Agent

Things to Do in Denver

Whether you're looking for ideas for a family outing or date night or want to go sightseeing or shopping, Denver is the place for you. There's something for all interests here, as it's also the home of countless museums and parks ideal for sightseeing.

  • For the Kids: For fun in the outdoors, we recommend visiting City Park. This park has a lake, space for picnics, and a playground the kids will enjoy.
     
  • Date Night: There are many options for an intimate date night here. Restaurants like Mercantile Dining and Provision and Guard and Grace are sure to impress. You can also enjoy a nightcap at Linger and ViewHouse. Both are highly rated. If you want to keep it simple, why not take a sunset hike? Hiking trails in Denver offer great views of mountains.
     
  • Outing With Friends: Denver offers plenty of options for a fun night out with friends. Comedy Works is a local favorite and has hosted some of the biggest names in comedy. For the best street art and breweries, check out RiNo Art District. You can also catch a show at the Bluebird Theater, a favorite among locals. Other options include taking a ghost tour of the city or even a fun salsa dancing class!
     
  • For History Buffs: With a history dating back to the Gold Rush era, there are plenty of activities for history buffs to enjoy. For starters, you can tour The Colorado State Building, known for its neoclassical architecture. Their guided excursions provide insight into the state's history and government. If you like vintage cars, trains, and motorcycles, check out the Forney Museum of Transportation.

People are incredibly passionate about music in The Mile High City, making it one of the top spots to enjoy live music in the country. One of its most popular venues is the historic Bluebird Theater which features a tiered layout so everyone has a good view. If you're looking for dinner and a show, Dazzle is the place to go. Enjoy daily jazz music, their famous Dazzle Four Cheese and Macaroni,, and their highly rated Plum and Walnut Old Fashioned.

If you're into the Art Deco era, you must visit the Paramount Theater, located on the very famous 16th Street Mall. Don't forget to check out the original organ installed to accompany silent movies when the theater first opened in 1930. Want to enjoy music outdoors? Head to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater and enjoy its amazing acoustic and scenic views. Considered one of the best music venues in the country, it's no wonder they previously hosted legendary rock band, The Beatles.

Find an Agent

A Sports Fan's Mecca

As one of 12 cities with all four major professional sports, Denverites are major sports enthusiasts.

For the NFL, the metro area hosts the Denver Broncos, a team with a very loyal fan base. Fans can enjoy their home games at Empower Field at Mile High, located in the heart of Denver. Their history includes multiple Superbowl wins!

The baseball team, Colorado Rockies, plays in Coors Field, the third oldest stadium in the National League stadium, which is located in the Lower Downtown area of Denver. It's one of the most popular destinations for baseball fans. Due to its rarified air, baseballs travel farther in Denver than in sea-level cities. This made Coors Field known as a hitter’s ballpark and it’s a great place to watch an exciting game. It earned Sportnout’s fourth spot for the best stadium in baseball! Make sure you wear purple to honor their "Rocktober" tradition while cheering on the team in the fall.

For basketball fans, there's the Denver Nuggets. They play in Ball Arena, located downtown. The local hockey team, Colorado Avalanche, also plays in this arena. 

Denver is also home to several popular college sports programs, including the University of Denver Pioneers and the Colorado Buffaloes. 

This city is famous amongst skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts because of its proximity to many world-renowned ski resorts. It's known for having a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, and these are easily accessible via bus or shuttle.

Find an Agent

Booming Economy

Denver has experienced significant economic growth over the past decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood Metropolitan Statistical Area has consistently had one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, with a rate of just 2.8% as of February 2023. It's also the 9th highest paying city in the country with a median yearly salary of $67,113 or approximately $32.27 an hour, according to the website Indeed.

Denver’s diverse economy includes energy, telecommunications, healthcare, and aerospace industries. One of the largest employers in Metro Denver is the U.S. Government. Additionally, there are six military bases near Denver, including Buckley Air Force Base in Aurora and Fort Carson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs.

Some of the top industries in Denver are:

  • Healthcare: Denver has a strong healthcare industry with several major hospitals and healthcare systems, including the University of Colorado Hospital and Children's Hospital Colorado.
     
  • Energy: There's also a solid energy sector, with companies such as Halliburton and Noble Energy operating in the area. Additionally, Denver is home to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Technology: The city has a growing technology sector, with companies like Google, Amazon, and Oracle opening offices there.
     
  • Aerospace: Denver is a major center for the aerospace industry, with companies such as Lockheed Martin and Bye Aerospace operating in the area.
     
  • Finance: The city also has several major financial institutions, including Charles Schwab, Janus Henderson, and TIAA Financial Services.

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade names Centura Health, United Airlines, and Century Link as some of Denver's top employers. Some Fortune 500 companies in the area are Dish Network, Western Union Co, and Davita Healthcare Partners.

Additionally, The Bureau of Economic Analysis ranked Denver 16th with a Gross Domestic Product of $421 billion in 2019.

One thing that attracts younger buyers to Denver is that it's a great place for startups, with many entrepreneurs and small businesses choosing to set up shop in the city.

Denver's economy is strong and diverse, with many industries and sectors contributing to its success. The city is known for its entrepreneurial spirit, skilled workforce, and supportive business environment, making it an excellent place for businesses to grow and thrive.

Find an Agent

Hot Real Estate Market

The housing market in Denver has been very active in recent years, with solid demand for housing driving up prices and creating a competitive market for buyers. The strong job market and overall quality of life have made this metro desirable, causing many homes to receive multiple offers and sell quickly. The high demand for homes and low inventory has caused prices to rise, making this a great seller's market. The housing market is expected to remain active in the coming years.

According to the Denver Metro Association of Realtors, the median home price in Denver saw an increase of 13.6% compared to February last year. Because of this, many buyers have opted to purchase just outside the metro. With more affordable options like Littleton, Golden, and Arvada having a median price in the higher $300,000s, the increasing popularity of these suburbs is not surprising. 

Overall, the housing market in Denver is currently competitive and challenging for buyers, with high demand, low inventory, and rising prices. However, the city's strong job market continues to make it a desirable place to live. 

Here are some facts about Denver, according to the website Niche:

  • The median home value is $459,100.
  • The median rent is $1,495.
  • Around 50% of residents are homeowners.

Find an Agent

Where in Denver?

Lots to choose from!

The Denver metro area has an eclectic mix of urban, suburban, and very rural housing options. The city lies in the Rocky Mountains and is divided into several counties. 

With many different options to fit all needs, it's important to work with an excellent real estate agent in Denver to help narrow down your options.

Read on for our guide to what each has to offer!

Find an Agent

Adams County

Adams County is in the northeastern part of the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood Metropolitan area. Weld County borders it to the north, Morgan County to the east, Arapahoe County to the south, and the City and County of Denver and Jefferson County to the west. Adams County is home to some of the most diverse communities, from urban areas to rural towns and agricultural land. With many museums, cultural centers, and historical sites throughout the area, there's always something to do and explore!

The county has several cities, including Aurora, Brighton, Commerce City, Thornton, and Westminster, each with its job market and economic strengths. Aurora, for example, is home to the Anschutz Medical Campus, one of the state's largest employers, and includes the University of Colorado Hospital and Children's Hospital Colorado. Commerce City has a thriving manufacturing industry, with companies like Suncor Energy, Refinery Supply, and DCP Midstream.

Its economic and recreational opportunities make Adams County attractive to homebuyers. Compared to other areas in the Denver metropolitan area, Adams County offers relatively affordable prices, which has created a high demand for homes for first-time buyers, investors, and those looking to upgrade their homes. Fortunately, new developments have sprung up to meet the demand for housing.

Here are some facts about Adams County, according to the website Niche:

  • The median home value is $360,600.
  • The median rent is $1,470.
  • Around 68% of residents are homeowners.

The cost of living in Adams County can vary depending on the specific city or town within the county. Expenses like groceries and utilities are also slightly higher than the national average. However, you get more bang for your buck when dining out and entertainment than in other parts of the Denver metro area.

Popular activities in the area include fishing at Barr Lake, where over 350 bird species have been observed, Stanley Market Place, which offers a variety of retail options, and the iconic Westminster Castle, better known as "The Pillar of Fire." For history buffs, the Fort Lupton Museum showcases the history of the area's early settlers and the military's role in the region.

Find an Agent

Arapahoe County

Named after the Arapaho tribe, Arapahoe County is home to over 656,000 people, making it the third most populous county in Colorado. Some of the more popular cities and towns in this county are Centennial, Englewood, and Littleton. 

Being the home of the Denver Tech Center, there are many job opportunities in Arapahoe County, especially in the technology sector. Other major industries include government, agriculture, manufacturing, education, and hospitality. Various small businesses and startups are also contributing to the local economy.

The website Niche highly rates Arapahoe County public schools; it was ranked at #8, earning an A in their list of counties with the best public schools in the state.

Being a mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas, it has a variety of options for housing. Cherry Hill Village and Greenwood Village are highly desirable neighborhoods and can sell for well over the county's median home value of around $415,000. The cost of living in Arapahoe County can vary depending on location and other factors. Home price ranges from the low $200,000s in Sheridan to the mid $800,000s in Cherry Creek. This helps ensure that residents of all income levels can find a place to call home.

Here are some housing market facts according to Niche:

  • The median home value is $415,000.
  • The median rent is $1,556.
  • About 65% of residents are homeowners.

Looking for something to do? We recommend visiting the charming city of Littleton, home of many well-preserved 19th-century buildings. If you're an art enthusiast, we suggest visiting the Museum of Outdoor Arts. Enjoy the outdoors? Explore nature or go fishing at South Platte Park and Nature Center! This beautiful park has over 850 acres of open space and offers five lakes for fishing.

Find an Agent

Boulder County

Described as vibrant and dynamic, Boulder County is located in the northern central part of the state. Many residents participate in green initiatives and practices, making this county known for its environmentalism and sustainability.

Boulder County is home to the University of Colorado, a major research institution and a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. Other major employers in the county include the National Institute of Standards and Technology, Ball Aerospace, and IBM.

Known for its commitment to technology and innovation in education and manufacturing.

A popular option for housing in Boulder County is the city of Boulder itself, which has a wide variety of housing options available, ranging from apartments and condos to single-family homes and luxury properties. Louisville, Superior, and Lafayette are good communities to consider if you're looking for something more affordable.

Here are some housing factors to consider when considering moving to Boulder County:

  • The median home value is $575,700
  • The rent value is $1,694.
  • About 63% of residents are homeowners.

Some locals feel that Boulder County is expensive, particularly when it comes to housing costs. However, many people also feel that the quality of life in the area is worth the higher cost of living. Many say its strong sense of community is one of the best things this county has to offer.

Find an Agent

Broomfield County

Broomfield County is a small but growing county that offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, corporate offices, and recreational opportunities. It was a part of Boulder County until 2001 when it became Colorado's newest county. It's a popular place to live for those who work in nearby Denver or Boulder and those looking for a suburban lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities.

This county covers an area of just over 33 square miles, making it the smallest county in Colorado by land area. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Broomfield County's population was approximately 70,000 in 2020.

Here are some facts about the housing market in Broomfield County, according to Niche:

Broomfield County is a small but growing county that offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, corporate offices, and recreational opportunities. It was a part of Boulder County until 2001 when it became Colorado's newest county. It's a popular place to live for those who work in nearby Denver or Boulder and those looking for a suburban lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities.

This county covers an area of just over 33 square miles, making it the smallest county in Colorado by land area. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Broomfield County's population was approximately 70,000 in 2020.

Here are some facts about the housing market in Broomfield County, according to Niche:

  • The median home value is $482,100.
  • The median rent is $1,814.
  • About 65% of residents are homeowners.

It's a great job market with several large corporations, including Oracle, Vail Resorts, and Level 3 Communications. It also has a growing technology sector, with software, I.T., and telecommunications companies. 

The job market in Broomfield County has been growing steadily in recent years. According to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, Broomfield County has experienced strong job growth in recent years, with the unemployment rate currently sitting at around 4% and the median household income averaging around $95,000. This helps offset the higher cost of living in this county, making it an attractive place to live and work. It also has a highly educated population, and many residents hold college degrees. 

Broomfield County has several public and private schools, including the Colorado STEM Academy, offering many extracurricular activities. Some top-ranked colleges and universities can also be found here, including the University of Colorado Boulder, the Colorado School of Mines, and Regis University. Broomfield County is proud and committed to its education system. 

Seeing that the housing market is strong, there's been a rise in new constructions in the area in recent years, with several new developments underway trying to meet the market's demands. Most of these are single-family homes and townhomes. With rental rates increasing faster than the average household income, many people have opted to purchase a home instead of continuing to rent. 

Hiking and biking are very popular here! Cyclists will most likely spend their weekends getting fresh air while enjoying the outdoors at Rock Creek Trail, the Broomfield County Commons Trail, or the Great Western Trail. Don't enjoy biking? A brisk walk is also a great way to exercise. Walkscore.com gave Broomfield County a Walk Score of 82 and a Bikeable score of 62! This might explain why the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute ranked Broomfield as the 6th healthiest county in Colorado. 

100% of residents report living close enough to a park or recreational facility. Locals also take their food and dining seriously, with many highly-rated restaurants to offer. Hickory and Dash is a local favorite, and the braised short ribs are incredible!

Find an Agent

Denver County

Denver County is located on the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains and sits at 5,280 feet above sea level, giving it the nickname of the "Mile High City." Being the largest metropolitan area in the state, Denver has many options to consider, from upscale communities to high-rise condos. It's the most populous county in the state, with over 700,000 residents, and it's located in the central part of the state, near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. 

Being the home of trendy neighborhoods like Lower Downtown and Highland, the competition among buyers for this highly desirable area has been strong, with homes selling within an average of 7 days of being listed. The rental market in Denver County has become increasingly strong, driving more people to buy a home. 

As the population grows, housing demand is expected to continue. Denver County is known for its friendly neighbors and welcoming atmosphere.

Here are some facts about Denver, according to the website Niche:

  • The median home value is $459,100.
  • The median rent is $1,495.
  • Around 50% of residents are homeowners.

The job market is diverse, with opportunities in various fields like education, technology, tourism, and energy. Amazon and Google have a significant presence in this area, attracting those in the tech sector. Tourism has been booming, with many well-known destinations drawing in millions of visitors. 

Looking for something to do? You can pay a visit to pieces done by Monet, Picasso, and Warhol at The Denver Art Museum. Sports fans can attend games and events at various venues throughout the county, such as Coors Field, Empower Field at Mile High, and the Ball Arena. This county also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including the Denver Film Festival, the Great American Beer Festival, and the Cherry Creek Arts Festival. It’s also ideal for foodies as it has a variety of unique restaurants and bars like Guard and Grace, Chez Maggy, and Bar Dough.

Find an Agent

Jefferson County

Named after Thomas Jefferson, many buyers are attracted to this county's scenic location near the mountains and natural beauty, which offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and a relaxed lifestyle. The population has been steadily increasing over the past decade. 

Some neighborhoods offer easy access to outdoor recreation and mountain views, while others are closer to urban amenities such as shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. 

Jefferson County has been a challenging market for some buyers to find affordable homes. However, some modestly priced options are still available in certain areas of the county, particularly for those willing to consider smaller homes or fixer-uppers. There has also been some new construction in Jefferson County to meet the demand for housing, particularly in areas such as Lakewood and Arvada.

If you look into Jefferson County, keep this in mind:

  • The median home value is $463,400.
  • The median rent is $1,555.
  • About 71% of residents are homeowners.

Jefferson County has seen significant growth in the technology and renewable energy sectors. Lockheed Martin and National Renewable Energy Laboratory are a couple of the largest employers in the county, attracting many people seeking work in technology-related fields. The county also has a strong workforce with a high percentage of residents holding bachelor's degrees or higher, attracting new industries to the area.

Scoring an A and ranked #2 on the website Niche, the Jefferson County school district is among the strongest in Denver. According to U.S. News & World Report, the top schools in 2021 were D'Evelyn Junior and Senior High School, Evergreen High School, and Conifer Senior High School. Jefferson County has a wide range of options for students of all ages and backgrounds.

Residents and visitors have access to a variety of attractions here. This county has several museums and cultural attractions, including the Colorado Railroad Museum, the Golden History Museum and Park, and the Morrison Natural History Museum. The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave can also be found here, drawing in many visitors who come to pay their respects to the famous figure of the American West. 

Popular family-friendly attractions include Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park, Lakeside Amusement Park, and the Denver Zoo. Looking to relax? Jefferson County has many spas and wellness centers where you can unwind, like Woodhouse Spa, The Pampering Place, and the Integrative Whole Body Center.

Find an Agent

What Now?

If you're looking to move to Colorado's State Capitol or its metropolitan area, you'll probably consider the above-mentioned options. Its unique location, climate, and culture make it special, and it's the reason behind its hot real estate market. If you're moving from out of state, we recommend visiting and looking at homes between April and May and September through October. You'll find lower travel prices and fewer crowds. 

The key to moving to an area with a strong market is finding the right real estate agent to help you find available listings that fit your needs and budget. The right agent will make your move that much easier, whether relocating from out of state or making a local move to be closer to work. They'll help you narrow down your search by providing information on different neighborhoods and schools. 

We understand how planning a move a buying a home can feel overwhelming. A great real estate agent will advise and support your home-buying journey. Thanks to their years of experience, our team of dependable PrimeStreet real estate agents in Denver can assist you with finding your dream home.

Call us at 855-531-8347, and our team of friendly customer service specialists will use our exclusive matching algorithm to connect you to an experienced agent based on your area of interest, preferred timeline, and anticipated budget. PrimeStreet can also help you meet a local lender to get you prequalified and ready to buy.

Denver is a great place for those who value outdoor activities, culture, a strong economy, great weather, and quality of life. Let us help you find the right professional to make your move to your new home as seamless as possible.

Your new home is waiting to welcome you in Denver!

Find an Agent