There are 73 distinct neighborhoods in the Mile High City, all of which boast their own unique flair.
Emerging areas like Five Points, RiNo, The Highlands, and LoDo serve as hotspots for young single people moving to Colorado—but families often have a different set of needs that typically make Denver’s older neighborhoods more desirable.
In this article, we’ll explore the three best neighborhoods in Denver for families, taking into account factors like schools, safety, and cost of living, among others.
North Park Hill: The Urban Family’s Not-so-Hidden Gem
North Park Hill is consistently ranked as one of Denver’s top neighborhoods due to its bustling nightlife, teeming diversity, local outdoor activities, and tree-lined streets.
But the neighborhood takes the #1 ranking on our list of best neighborhoods in Denver for families due to its outstanding public schools, easy commuter access, relatively low crime rates, and family-centric housing options. Lots in this area are typically large by urban standards, offering backyards and outdoor entertaining space.
While cost of living is on the higher side with median home values ranging between $550k and $650k, you get what you pay for in this canopy-lover’s paradise. Primarily featuring ranch homes built in the 1950s, there’s a perfect bungalow for every family in this sparsely urban neighborhood.
North Park Hill’s eclectic culture paired with its family-friendly functionality makes it the perfect place to raise kids.
South Park Hill: A Worthy Sidekick
Really? Did we just rank South Park Hill Number 2 on our list of best neighborhoods in Denver for families?
The answer is yes; yes we did. And considering our name Park Hill Pro, you might hold onto some healthy suspicion over our ranking. But also us to convince you…
According to Niche.com, South Park Hill ranks in the top 15% of places to raise a family nationwide, including suburban neighborhoods. That’s due to good public schools, an abundance of local parks, and a number of year-round family-friendly community events.
The big knock on South Park Hill is the cost of living. A single-family home in the area will run at least $700k. But again, buying a house in this area is an investment that not only pays off monetarily, but also in quality of life.
One in three households in South Park Hill have children, making it a great place to connect with other families. Look how easy it is for your kids to make friends: you can do it too!
Bonnie Brae (Belcaro): Washington Park’s Quiet Neighbor
While Washington Park is a surefire go-to on any best Denver neighborhoods list, regardless of lifestyle, we’re going to take a short trip east to Belcaro.
Often a forgotten Denver neighborhood in the shadow of Washington Park, Belcaro was developed in the 1920s and features charming, character-forward homes. Architectural concepts such as Art Moderne and International Style influenced the original construction of houses in the area, rendering diverse structures that give every block a pop of culture.
Niche.com gives Belcaro ‘A’ grades in Outdoor Activities, Commute, Health & Fitness, Diversity, Nightlife, and Good for Families. With a population around 5,000, this quant Denver oasis offers easy access to Colorado Boulevard, Washington Park, Interstate 25, and an abundance of local restaurants.
The Best Neighborhoods in Denver for Families: Where Will Your Next Move Take You?
In conclusion, Denver’s mosaic of neighborhoods offers a dynamic range of options for families looking to call the Mile High City home.
From the sparse urban sanctuary of North Park Hill with its family-friendly amenities and strong school system, to the picturesque streets of South Park Hill, where community and quality of life intertwine, to the culturally rich and conveniently located Belcaro, there’s a neighborhood to suit each family’s unique taste and needs.
Each of these neighborhoods shines with its own character and promises a community where memories can be made and futures can be forged. As you consider your next move, take the time to explore these neighborhoods and beyond; Denver is a city full of enchanting abodes just waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re seeking the vibrancy of a thriving city scene or the peace of suburban charm, you’ll find a place to plant your roots and watch them grow in Denver.
