Determining the "best" suburb of Denver to live in is subjective, as the ideal choice highly depends on individual priorities such as lifestyle preferences, commute needs, family size, school quality, access to amenities, and budget. While there isn't one single "best" suburb for everyone, several communities consistently rank high for their quality of life, diverse offerings, and strong community appeal.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Denver Suburb
Before settling on a suburb, it's essential to evaluate what matters most to you. Key considerations often include:
- Commute Time: Proximity to work, downtown Denver, or other key areas.
- School Quality: Access to highly-rated public or private schools, crucial for families with children.
- Amenities and Recreation: Availability of parks, trails, shopping centers, restaurants, cultural venues, and outdoor activities.
- Community Feel: Whether you prefer a quiet, tight-knit community or a more vibrant, bustling atmosphere.
- Cost of Living: Housing prices, property taxes, and overall expenses vary significantly between suburbs.
- Safety: Crime rates and general perception of security in the neighborhood.
- Outdoor Access: Easy reach to the mountains for skiing, hiking, or biking, or local open spaces.
Top-Rated Denver Suburbs
Many highly desirable suburbs surround the Denver metropolitan area, each offering a unique living experience. Here's a look at some of the top-rated options that consistently appear on "best of" lists, appealing to a wide range of preferences:
| Suburb | Key Features | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Arvada | Historic Olde Town, diverse housing, extensive park system, light rail access. | Families, young professionals, those seeking suburban comfort with urban accessibility. |
| Broomfield | Planned communities, strong tech presence, excellent schools, Flatiron Crossing Mall. | Families, tech professionals, those valuing modern amenities and convenience. |
| Lakewood | Proximity to the mountains, diverse housing, ample green space, Belmar shopping district. | Outdoor enthusiasts, those seeking a balance of urban amenities and natural beauty. |
| Golden | Foothills setting, home to Coors Brewery and Colorado School of Mines, historic charm, outdoor sports. | Outdoor adventurers, students, those desiring a smaller town feel with mountain access. |
| Columbine | Primarily residential, mature trees, well-regarded schools, suburban tranquility. | Families, those seeking quiet neighborhoods and good schools. |
| Ken Caryl | Upscale, master-planned community, private amenities (trails, pools), mountain views. | Affluent families, those desiring an exclusive, amenity-rich community. |
| Littleton | Historic downtown, community events, good schools, mix of housing styles, Hudson Gardens. | Families, empty nesters, those appreciating historic charm and community engagement. |
| Highlands Ranch | Master-planned community, extensive recreation centers, highly-rated schools, open spaces. | Families, active individuals, those looking for a modern, amenity-rich environment. |
Exploring Your Options
Each of these suburbs offers distinct advantages:
- Arvada provides a blend of historic charm in Olde Town with modern conveniences, including new developments and easy access to Denver via light rail. Its large park system appeals to active residents.
- Broomfield stands out with its meticulously planned communities, strong job market, particularly in the tech sector, and high-quality schools. It offers a suburban lifestyle with plenty of shopping and dining options.
- Lakewood serves as a gateway to the mountains, offering residents quick access to outdoor recreation while still being close to downtown Denver. Its varied housing options cater to different budgets and preferences.
- Golden offers a unique small-town atmosphere nestled in the foothills, perfect for those who love outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and climbing. It boasts a rich history and a strong community spirit.
- Columbine is a more residential area known for its peaceful environment, mature landscaping, and good schools, making it a popular choice for families seeking a traditional suburban lifestyle.
- Ken Caryl is an upscale, master-planned community renowned for its luxurious homes, private amenities, and stunning mountain views, offering a secluded yet connected living experience.
- Littleton combines historic appeal with modern amenities, featuring a vibrant downtown area, community events, and a variety of housing. Its parks and recreation facilities are a major draw.
- Highlands Ranch is a large, master-planned community celebrated for its numerous recreation centers, extensive trail system, and top-tier schools, appealing to families and those seeking an active, structured community.
Ultimately, the best way to determine the perfect suburb is to visit these areas, experience their unique atmospheres, and assess how well they align with your personal needs and preferences.
