Everything You Need to Know When Moving to or Around Denver
The Mile-High city, nicknamed such because of its 5,280-foot elevation, was originally founded as the gateway to mining towns during the 1800s. While Denver has come a long way since The Gold Rush, this city, at the base of the Rocky Mountains, still holds onto its mining roots. While residents are no longer gun-slinging wild westerners, they still embrace mountain culture and a love of adventure. Denver, CO is home to nature enthusiasts and fitness lovers, and it remains an ambitious and progressive city.
Denver Key Demographics and Population
Denver, CO has been listed as one of the fastest growing cities in the country. It is such a desirable location that it appeals to young families, singles, and retirees alike. It is the capital of the state and according to World Population Review, its 2020 population is approximately 749,103: making it easily the largest city in Colorado and the 19th largest city in the United States.
According to the most recent census reports, the racial composition of Denver is:
- White: 76.11%
- Black or African American: 9.24%
- Other race: 6.13%
- Two or more races: 3.78%
- Asian: 3.71%
- Native American: 0.87%
- Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 0.17%
Another notable factor of the population of Denver is that 23.5% of Denver's population speaks Spanish at home.
Denver's Job Market and Cost of Living
The Wall Street Journal reports that Denver has the number 3 ranked job market in the nation. This means that there is a low unemployment rate (2.7% in 2019), and that there are plentiful jobs.
The top industries in Denver for job seekers include health care, social work, and scientific and technical services. US News and World Report notes that the concentration of research facilities like the University of Colorado and University of Denver make aerospace technology a leading industry in the area as well.
The hospitality sector is booming too, since more than 17 million people visit the area each year.
Neighborhoods and Property Values
Since Denver has experienced such a drastic population boom, the cost of living has dramatically increased. Housing in the Denver area have seen the biggest price hikes lately, making the median house price higher than the national median. The average cost of a home in Denver (in 2019) came in at $401,542 compared to the national average of $232,933.
Whether you're looking for a home in a trendy spot, searching for a small-town vibe, or dreaming of a mountain view, Denver has the neighborhood for you.
Cherry Creek
High-end shopping and restaurants make Cherry Creek a more than desirable neighborhood. Pair that with its classic, brick homes and stunning landscaping and you won't be disappointed with this area.
Washington Park
This neighborhood, close to downtown, is the area surrounding one of Denver's largest green spaces. Fondly referred to as "Wash Park" by locals, it's the go-to spot to take your out-of-town guests to show off your city for the day. It boasts a low crime rate, great elementary school, and gorgeous, remodeled Victorian homes.
Stapleton
Newer construction makes this suburban community great for young families looking to be near awesome amenities like City Park and the science center but still have that suburban lifestyle feel.
Golden
Just outside of the Denver metro area, but still in easy access off the highway, you'll find the quaint mining town of Golden. Famous for being the home of the Coors Brewing facility, it's nicknamed the "Gateway to the Rockies" and will fulfil all your mountain vista desires. Also, in Golden, awesome small restaurants and a small community feeling.
Boulder
While technically its own small city, Boulder calls to city dwellers because of its small-town vibes, hip new restaurants and college town atmosphere.
Highlands and Lower Highlands (Lo-Hi)
Often referred to as the Northside by locals, the highlands are an up-and-coming neighborhood near the professional sports arenas. Lo-Hi specifically has lots of great restaurants and newer condo-style homes. The area is loaded with options for public transportation and easily has the best bars in the city.
What Makes Denver a Great Place to Live?
Making a big move always involves a lot of questions. You'll want to know exactly what living in Denver will be like before you make any big decisions. What area attractions are the most popular? What is the restaurant scene like in Denver, CO? What do people do for fun? What up-and-coming neighborhoods are in Denver? Denver, with its mountain backdrop and endless skies, has lots of things to see and do no matter what your interests or hobbies may be.
Sporting Events
The people of Denver really like their sports. Denver is the smallest city in the country with five major professional sports teams! Denver is home to the Denver Broncos football, Colorado Rockies baseball, Colorado Avalanche hockey, Denver Nuggets basketball, and Colorado Rapids soccer. Add to that the variety of colleges and minor league teams in the area and sports fans will never be bored.
Outdoor Activities
The Denver area is well-known for its outdoor activities, including:
Skiing and Snowboarding
Colorado is known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Award-winning mountain resorts can be found just a short drive from the city center. Being able to choose from the slopes at Breckenridge or the vistas of Vail will make all skiing and boarding enthusiasts happy. Aside from those famous resorts, Colorado is home to a bunch of smaller ski resorts all within an easy drive from Denver.
White Water Rafting
In less than an hour's drive outside of Denver, residents can take part in exhilarating white water rafting experiences in Idaho Springs. There are stunning natural landscapes in Colorado to enjoy while floating down the many rivers the state has to offer. There are experiences for expert or novice rafters alike.
Other Outdoor Adventures
Residents of Colorado are known for being more outdoorsy than most, those who live in Denver can take part in city-wide parks and rec programs or venture outside city limits to discover their own outdoor adventure. The city's sports facilities include climbing walls, aquatic centers with splash pads, dog parks, tennis parks, ice rinks, and expansive park systems. You'll also be able to find opportunities for fishing, hunting, kayaking, or camping.
Parking, Commuting, and Public Transportation
Rush hour in Denver can be a real drag. Despite being a really eco-friendly community, most people in Denver have cars. Because Denver has many commutable suburban areas, and the commercial areas lie on the outskirts of the city (Denver Tech Center is south of the city while Broomfield is in the north) the highways become quite congested.
Denver recently finished the installation of the RTD-Light Rail system which provides service from Boulder all the way to the Denver International Airport. There is also Amtrak service and Greyhound in the area for transportation to nearby cities.
In the downtown area, many people prefer to use bikes. Denver is a very bike-able city. There are more than 85 miles of paved trails throughout the metro area for cyclists and well-marked and maintained bike lanes on the major streets throughout. The Denver-based bike sharing company, B-cycle, also has access racks in 88 spots across the metro area.
Education
Denver Public Schools include 157 public schools with more than 200 private school options. Many of Denver's high schools have been recognized on U.S. News & World Report's Best High Schools rankings. Charter schools are plentiful in the area too, which service students whose interests are directed toward art, science or math.
Denver is also home to nine colleges and/or universities. Three of Denver's universities have recently ranked well on U.S. News & World Report's Best Colleges rankings.
Restaurants and Nightlife
The restaurant scene in Denver is eclectic and plentiful. Right downtown you'll stumble across the 16th Street Mall—it's a one-mile pedestrian section of downtown, literally packed with cafes, brewpubs, and restaurants. It's a little bit touristy, but a must-see for newcomers and fun even for long-time residents. Brunch is also a big deal for Coloradans. Snooze Eatery is located in a few places throughout the metro area and is always busy. You can expect to wait about an hour, but the mimosas and pancake flights will make up for the wait.
Many Denver restaurants are embracing the idea of farm-to-table menus. Using locally sourced ingredients is both eco-friendly and great for area farmers. Euclid Hall is a Denver restaurant providing guests with a menu focused on locally sourced ingredients and craft food. Located in the heart of Larimer Square with a focus on elevated pub fare, it has a really great ambiance and is a fun evening destination.
There are also nearly 100 breweries in metro Denver. Most years Denver is also home to the annual Great American Beer Festival that showcases more than 4,000 beers from more than 800 breweries around the country.
Greenspace, Parks, and Recreation
There is no better city than Denver for enjoying the outdoors. There are more than 5,000 acres of green space available for Denver residents to enjoy in the form of parks, trails, golf courses, and playgrounds. The metro area's proximity to the Rocky Mountains allows for many options for residents to get outside as well. Some of the most popular outdoor spots for residents include:
Red Rocks Amphitheater
Red Rocks is a naturally formed, open-air amphitheater that is designed around two giant monoliths. The 300-foot rocks frame the stage and provide a gorgeous setting for any performance. It has, understandably, become one of the most popular music venues in the country. Aside from being a venue for shows, Red Rocks includes an art exhibit, a music hall of fame, and miles of trails for hiking or biking. Additionally, exercise groups will regularly meet there to run the stairs or participate in yoga.
Cherry Creek Park
This park is often referred to as "Denver's backyard" because it offers green spaces to barbecue and relax, as well as miles of trails and activities for everyone to enjoy. The Park is centered around an 880-acre reservoir, and includes gentle, rolling hills and recreation facilities which include camping areas, picnicking pavilions, and facilities for group events.
Considering a Move to Denver?
If the weather in Denver isn't reason enough for you to relocate, (averaging 300 days of sunshine a year) perhaps the booming housing market, craft breweries on nearly every corner, and gorgeous mountain vistas will make the decision for you. The outdoor beauty and excellent neighborhoods are really what make Denver a prime location to live. If you need help navigating the details of your move, please give College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving a call today. Our moving professionals will make the moving process stress-free for you and your family.