10 Best Places to Live in Colorado

Denver

“As the largest city in Colorado and the state capital, Denver is a natural draw when people are considering a move to the Centennial State,” Gretchen Rosenberg, president and CEO of Kentwood Real Estate/Luxury Portfolio International, said. The city’s popularity with out-of-state and international residents has been on the rise for many years, surpassing the median population growth for the country. And it’s easy to see why people move to the Mile High City. Its thriving arts scene, fantastic professional and recreational sports opportunities, and excellent parks system (Denver has over 250 urban parks) are a magnet for families and young professionals alike.

“Homebuyers have a variety of choices for neighborhoods in Denver, each with its own distinct vibe, from Georgian mansions to classic bungalows to beautifully preserved mid-century modern homes,” Rosenberg explained. “Buyers who explore the area first will be able to narrow down what’s important to them for their lifestyle, home-style preference, commute time, and price.”

Speaking of price, the median home value in the Mile High City is around $545,000, slightly higher than the state median value (about $540,000), according to Zillow.

Longmont

This city of almost 100,000 residents in Boulder County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking family-friendly amenities, tranquility, and charm. Krista Allard, a senior broker associate at PorchLight Real Estate Group/Luxury Portfolio International, describes it as “thriving while still maintaining its small-town vibe.”

The city’s historic downtown is packed with art galleries, locally owned shops, craft breweries, and restaurants. It’s also bike-friendly, with over a hundred miles of bike lanes and paths. Niche.com also ranked it among the top 50 best suburbs in Colorado.

“Longmont really shines because of its variety of home styles. Buyers will find everything from 1940s bungalows to classic craftsman homes and restored Victorians, plus modern masterpieces in Somerset Meadows, urban chic carriage houses in Prospect, and a number of fully custom builds,” Allard explained.

Aurora

The growing population of Aurora is a testament to its economic strength and desirability. Located just 15 miles east of Denver, the town holds the title of the most diverse suburb in Colorado and one of the most diverse suburbs in the country, according to Niche.com.

Currently, the median home value in Aurora is about $477,000, which is higher than both Denver and the state’s average, according to Zillow.

Loveland

Set against the majestic Rocky Mountains, Loveland is a mid-sized town full of character and outdoor adventures. Lake Loveland, the center of activity in town, has a beach, tennis courts, playgrounds, and picnic facilities.

“I personally love West Loveland. My top three favorite neighborhoods are Mariana Butte, Bonnell West, and Prairie Trails,” Alycia Martinez, a realtor and partner at The Group, Inc./Luxury Portfolio International, said, adding that ranch-style homes are the most sought-after types of properties in town.

The median home value in Loveland is currently almost $500,000, but if you dream of a lakefront property, prices go well into the millions.

Broomfield

“Connecting to nature is easy in a city with hundreds of acres of open space, many golf courses, and numerous trails, not to mention the breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and over 300 days of sunshine,” Janet Borchert, a realtor at WK Real Estate/Luxury Portfolio International, said.

While Broomfield has retained its small-town feel and a strong sense of community, its location — midway between Denver and Boulder — means its residents also have easy access to big-city amenities, such as sporting events, an international airport, and several universities.

According to Borchert, the town offers everything from condominiums to large estates and farms to home buyers.

Borchert points out that home prices can range from around $300,000 to well into the millions. “Broomfield’s prices are higher than the national average, but the market is affordable compared to other communities in the broader area, such as Boulder and Denver,” Borchert explained.

Littleton

Residents of this quaint Denver suburb benefit from excellent public schools, many outdoor activities, and a stunning natural setting.

“Downtown Littleton is known for its historic charm and vibrant atmosphere. Key attractions include the Littleton Town Hall Arts Center, which offers live theater performances, and the Littleton Museum, providing a glimpse into the area’s history with its living history farms and exhibits,” Brandon Brennick, a managing broker at Kentwood Real Estate, said, noting that the town hosts many festivals and events throughout the year that enhance its community feel.

Brennick’s favorite neighborhoods are the prestigious Columbine Valley, with its golf courses and larger homes; Ken Caryl Ranch, with its recreational facilities and extensive trail system; and Roxborough Park, a perfect fit for nature enthusiasts and “those seeking scenic views.”

Castle Rock

“Castle Rock has an amazing blend of demographics, though it’s known for being family-friendly with excellent schools, including public charter and non-charter magnet schools,” Courtney Nelson, senior broker associate at PorchLight Real Estate Group, said, referring to the town’s increasing popularity with retirees and empty nesters.

The town has miles of trails, parks, and recreational facilities, including The MAC (Miller Athletic Complex), Rock Park, Zachary Parish Park, and Rhyolite Park.

Nelson also explained that despite recent growth, the town still has a laid-back feel to it, and residents enjoy a blend of quaint shops and fantastic restaurants.

And unlike many markets that suffer from a chronic supply shortage, Castle Rock buyers have more choices and leverage, according to Nelson. According to Realtor.com, the median sold price for homes here is around $725,000.

Boulder

For John Hoeffler, an agent at WK Real Estate, there are many reasons to choose Boulder for your next home.

“With over 150 miles of hiking trails, hundreds of miles of dedicated bikeways, over 100,000 acres of open space surrounding our city and protecting our natural environment, bordered by the Rocky Mountains, 300 days of sunshine a year, the scenic University of Colorado campus, and a vibrant downtown filled with award-winning restaurants and unique local shopping, why would anyone want to live anywhere else?” he said.

U.S. News also ranked Boulder the second-best place to live in Colorado and tenth overall in the country. However, real estate here doesn’t come cheap, and the current average home value is close to $1 million.

Fort Collins

The country’s “most peaceful place to live” is increasingly popular with retirees and newcomers looking for a bike-friendly community to call home.

“Fort Collins has a small-town feel with a laid-back vibe, along with incredible community events, year-round activities, and charitable giving,” Andrea Tuell, a broker and partner at The Group, Inc./Luxury Portfolio International, said.

Fort Collins is about an hour north of Denver and was named the 12th fastest-growing city in America by Checkr last year.

Currently, the median home value is around $550,000, and Tuell explained that now is a great time to buy and sell property.