Situated 5,280 feet above sea level, “Mile High City,” Denver, CO, is one of the best places to be for outdoor enthusiasts who are also looking to live the city life. Denver is home to historic 19th-century buildings, stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, popular sports teams, and much more.
While Denver is a stellar city, it may not suit your lifestyle. And whether you’re moving to the area for a job or have lived here for a while, there are lots of cities near Denver you may want to consider instead.
To help you find the right city to buy or rent in, Redfin has gathered a list of 10 cities near Denver to consider living in.
#1: Commerce City, CO
Miles from Denver: 7
Population: 56,000
Median home sale price: $524,269
Walk Score: 30
Bike Score: 22
Transit Score: 45
Originally a junction for railroads and highways, Commerce City is now one of Colorado’s fastest-growing economies and one of many Denver suburbs. Commerce City offers 840 acres of parks and open space, perfect for exciting outdoor activities like hiking and picnics.
There are plenty of things to do in Commerce City. For starters, you can explore the city’s many parks and trails or take a dip in one of the city’s pools. You can also visit the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge or go shopping at the town center. There are also plenty of great restaurants and bars in Commerce City.
Homes for sale in Commerce City, CO
Apartments for rent in Commerce City, CO
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#2: Lakewood, CO
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Miles from Denver: 8
Population: 156,000
Median home sale price: $580,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,819
Walk Score: 43
Bike Score: 31
Transit Score: 56
Lakewood is another one of the great cities near Denver. It’s just west of the city and spans to the base of the Rocky Mountains. The town resides at an elevation of 5,518 ft, and you’ll find the cities of Morrison to the west of Lakewood, Littleton to the south, and Golden and Wheat Ridge to the north.
There are many things to do in Lakewood. You can go hiking, biking, fishing, or camping in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. You can also visit the Lakewood Heritage Center, the Lakewood Cultural Center, and the Belmar Shopping Center.
Homes for sale in Lakewood, CO
Apartments for rent in Lakewood, CO
#3: Aurora, CO
Miles from Denver: 10
Population: 379,500
Median home sale price: $475,350
Average 1-bed rent: $1,699
Walk Score: 43
Bike Score: 35
Transit Score: 53
Aurora is one of the largest cities in the state and is known for its cultural attractions and major businesses.
There is plenty to do in Aurora, regardless of your hobbies. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. The city also has a variety of museums, including the Aurora History Museum. There are several theater companies and art galleries in the city for those who enjoy the arts. And, of course, there are plenty of restaurants and shopping opportunities.
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Apartments for rent in Aurora, CO
#4: Arvada, CO
Miles from Denver: 11
Population: 120,500
Median home sale price: $641,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,375
Walk Score: 35
Bike Score: 23
Transit Score: 50
Arvada is well-known for its agricultural community and Historic Olde Town, reflective of the first gold discovery in Colorado.
There are many things to do in Arvada, including visiting the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities, hiking and biking in the city’s parks, and exploring the historic Olde Town Arvada district.
Homes for sale in Arvada, CO
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#5: Westminster, CO
Miles from Denver: 12
Population: 115,000
Median home sale price: $549,900
Average 1-bed rent: $1,914
Walk Score: 35
Bike Score: 26
Transit Score: 51
Westminster is a suburban city located less than 20 minutes from downtown Denver. And there are plenty of things you can do in the city, making it another one of the awesome cities near Denver to live in.
There are hiking and biking trails galore for those who love the outdoors. For those who enjoy shopping, there are plenty of boutique shops downtown and the Westminster Mall. And for those who want to learn more about the area’s history, there are several museums, including the Butterfly Pavilion and the Westminster Historical Society Museum. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to do in Westminster.
Homes for sale in Westminster, CO
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#6: Centennial, CO
Miles from Denver: 15
Population: 111,500
Median home sale price: $640,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,717
Walk Score: 35
Bike Score: 21
Transit Score: 46
Centennial is located just south of Denver and is close to many parks and reservoirs.
In Centennial, there is a lot to do for everyone, whether you shop at the Southglenn Mall or check out a book at the Arapahoe Library. For those looking for a little more excitement, you can head to the Centennial Sports Complex and the Centennial Promenade. And for those who want to relax and take in the scenery, there are plenty of parks and trails to explore.
Homes for sale in Centennial, CO
Apartments for rent in Centennial, CO
#7: Parker, CO
Miles from Denver: 23
Population: 55,500
Median home sale price: $670,000
Average 1-bed rent: $2,147
Walk Score: 21
Transit Score: 44
Parker offers small-city living with the perks of a larger city. It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors, with over 250 acres of developed parks and 950 acres of open space. You’ll find spectacular views throughout the city as its elevation is 600 feet higher than Denver’s.
If you’re living in Parker, you’ll never run out of things to do. There are plenty of trails for hiking and biking, and the town has a quaint Main Street with shops and restaurants. The town hosts a farmers market and a concert series in the summer. There are also many parks, including a dog park and a playground.
Homes for sale in Parker, CO
Apartments for rent in Parker, CO
#8: Highlands Ranch, CO
Miles from Denver: 24
Population: 107,000
Median home sale price: $660,000
Average 1-bed rent: $2,960
Walk Score: 28
Transit Score: 49
Highlands Ranch is situated about 15 miles south of Denver and is home to just over 100,000 residents. The city is well known for its incredible mountain views, shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational activities. Living in Highlands Ranch means you’ll experience a small-town feel while having easy access to Denver’s major attractions.
If you’re looking for a place to call home with a lot to offer, from activities to relaxation, look no further than Highlands Ranch. With attractions like the Highlands Ranch Mansion and various performing arts venues, you’ll never find yourself bored here. And when you want to spend a chill afternoon outdoors, you can choose from a number of parks, like Redstone Park or Highland Heritage Regional Park. To top it off, the city is also home to many great restaurants, so you’ll always find something new to try.
Homes for sale in Highlands Ranch, CO
Apartments for rent in Highlands Ranch, CO
#9: Castle Rock, CO
Miles from Denver: 29
Population: 65,000
Median home sale price: $645,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,930
Walk Score: 11
Transit Score: 40
Castle Rock is known for its views of the Rocky Mountains and its small-town feel. Rock Park, a popular 60-acre park in the city, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Some of the town’s most beautiful and prominent features are its open spaces, parks, and trails. You’ll find various events, concerts, festivals, fundraisers, races, and environmental education and cultural programs held at Castle Rock’s parks each year. Residents can take a hike, enjoy the great outdoors or sneak a peak at local wildlife – the town truly has something for everyone.
Homes for sale in Castle Rock, CO
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#10: Boulder, CO
Miles from Denver: 30
Population: 109,000
Median home sale price: $947,450
Average 1-bed rent: $2,115
Walk Score: 56
Bike Score: 47
Transit Score: 86
Boulder is an urban city just 30 minutes northwest of Denver with abundant outdoor activities. The city is also known for its food scene, breweries, and exciting downtown.
There is no shortage of things to do in Boulder. Home to the University of Colorado Boulder, you can tour its beautiful campus or catch a football game in the fall. Make sure to hike the Flatirons, located slightly outside of the city. The Boulder Creek Path is also a great way to explore the city, and the Boulder Farmers Market is a must-visit to find fresh, local produce. For something a little different, check out the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse – a beautiful building and location along the creekside with delicious food. And, of course, no day in Boulder would be complete without some time spent climbing at the Boulder Rock Club. For a scenic drive, head up the Peak to Peak Highway, where you’ll find breathtaking views
Homes for sale in Boulder, CO
Apartments for rent in Boulder, CO
Methodology:
All cities must have a population of more than 50,000 and be less than 50 miles away from Denver. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during August 2022. Average rental data from Rent.com during August 2022. Walk Score, Bike Score, and Transit Score from Walkscore.com during August 2022. Population data sourced from United States Census Bureau.
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