Thinking of Moving to Denver with Kids? Start Here. If you’re relocating to Denver with children, finding the right neighborhood is key. You’re likely looking for a place that offers top-ranked schools, safe streets, parks and trails, and a true sense of community. The good news? The Denver metro area is packed with family-friendly neighborhoods that fit the bill—whether you’re drawn to historic charm, newer master-planned communities, or quiet suburbs with space to grow. This guide highlights the top neighborhoods for families in Denver, including what to know about schools, commute times, housing prices, and more, because where you live matters.

1. Washington Park (Denver)

Vibe: Historic, walkable, park-centric
A local favorite, “Wash Park” combines classic Denver charm with wide sidewalks, early 1900s homes, and a huge 155-acre park filled with lakes, playgrounds, and sports courts. It’s perfect for families who want a tight-knit neighborhood near downtown without sacrificing green space.

• Top Schools: Steele Elementary, DSST

• Median Home Price: $1.2M

• Commute to Downtown: 10 minutes

• Best For: Active families, walkability, strong community vibe

2. Central Park (formerly Stapleton)

Vibe: Master-planned, modern, family-first
Once an old airport, Central Park is now one of Denver’s most successful family-focused communities. With over 50 parks, splash pads, bike trails, pools, and community events, it’s designed for families who want it all within reach.

• Top Schools: Isabella Bird Community School, DSST: Conservatory Green

• Median Home Price: $750K

• Commute to Downtown: 15–20 minutes

• Best For: Modern homes, school choice, community feel

3. Highlands Ranch

Vibe: Suburban, spacious, planned living
Just south of Denver, Highlands Ranch is a suburban standout with exceptional schools, wide streets, and four rec centers. It’s perfect for families who want safe neighborhoods, larger homes, and endless trails, parks, and play areas.

• Top Schools: Rock Canyon High, STEM School Highlands Ranch

• Median Home Price: $675K

• Commute to Denver Tech Center: 20–30 minutes

• Best For: Education-focused families, active lifestyle

4. Park Hill (Denver)

Vibe: Diverse, historic, centrally located
Park Hill offers leafy streets, large lots, and a diverse, welcoming atmosphere. It’s close to the Denver Zoo, Museum of Nature & Science, and City Park, making it ideal for families who want culture and convenience.

• Top Schools: Park Hill Elementary, McAuliffe International

• Median Home Price: $825K

• Commute to Downtown: 0–15 minutes

• Best For: Older homes, community pride, central location

5. Littleton

Vibe: Historic, charming, light-rail accessible
With its walkable downtown, quality schools, and access to the South Platte River Trail, Littleton feels like a small town but is fully integrated into the metro. It’s a top pick for families who want affordability, safety, and charm.

• Top Schools: Littleton Academy, Heritage High

• Median Home Price: $625K

• Commute to Downtown: 30 minutes via light rail

• Best For: Commute convenience, family-oriented neighborhoods

6. Golden

Vibe: Mountain-adjacent, outdoorsy, peaceful
Golden offers Colorado lifestyle at its finest. Nestled at the base of the Rockies, it’s perfect for families who want access to hiking, rivers, and open space—with excellent schools and a quaint downtown to boot.

• Top Schools: Golden High, Shelton Elementary

• Median Home Price: $825K

• Commute to Downtown: 25 minutes

• Best For: Outdoor families, mountain access, slower pace

7. Aurora

Vibe: Diverse, growing, affordable
Aurora is one of the fastest-growing cities in Colorado, with newer developments, reasonable home prices, and access to jobs at Buckley Space Force Base and Anschutz Medical Campus. Families love the open space, splash parks, and school choice options.

• Top Schools: Vista PEAK Preparatory, Cherokee Trail

• Median Home Price: $495K

• Commute to Downtown: 25–35 minutes

• Best For: Affordability, new construction, diversity

8. Broomfield

Vibe: Clean, modern, commuter-friendly
Located between Denver and Boulder, Broomfield is a magnet for tech and aerospace families. It features great schools, newer homes, and over 8,000 acres of parks and open space.

• Top Schools: Legacy High, Aspen Creek K–8

• Median Home Price: $700K

• Commute to Denver/Boulder: 25–30 minutes

• Best For: Dual-commuting families, new builds, great schools

9. Boulder

Vibe: Progressive, walkable, top-tier schools
Yes, it’s pricey—but if you can afford it, Boulder offers top-ranked schools, a healthy lifestyle, and a unique cultural mix. It’s a great choice for families who want a blend of academic excellence, recreation, and walkability.

• Top Schools: Fairview High, Boulder High, Summit Middle

• Median Home Price: $950K+

• Commute to Denver: 35–45 minutes

• Best For: Education, sustainability, bike-friendly living

10. Parker

Vibe: Scenic, community-driven, up-and-coming
Parker combines small-town appeal with newer master-planned communities and access to Douglas County’s top schools. Families love the safe streets, abundant trails, and seasonal festivals.

• Top Schools: Legend High, Ponderosa High School, Pine Grove Elementary

• Median Home Price: $650K

• Commute to DTC: 25 minutes

• Best For: Growing families, top schools, affordability

What to Look for When Relocating to Denver:

• School Districts Matter: Top-rated districts include Cherry Creek, Douglas County, Boulder Valley, and Littleton Public Schools.

• Commute vs. Lifestyle: Living further out may offer affordability, but consider traffic and snow days.

• Home Price Awareness: Denver’s real estate market is competitive. Research average home prices by ZIP code.

• Weather: Colorado sunshine is real—but so are snowstorms. Look for neighborhoods with strong infrastructure.

• Walkability & Transit: Some areas like Wash Park and Littleton offer better transit access and walk scores.

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