best suburbs in denver for families

Best Denver Suburbs for Families

Denver’s suburbs offer a diverse range of options for families seeking excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and access to outdoor recreation. Choosing the right suburb depends on your priorities, budget, and lifestyle. Several suburbs consistently rank high for families due to their community amenities and family-friendly atmosphere.

Top Denver Suburbs for Families

Here are some of the best Denver suburbs to consider when searching for the perfect place to raise a family:

Highlands Ranch

Highlands Ranch is a master-planned community known for its excellent schools, numerous parks and recreation centers, and family-friendly atmosphere. It offers a wide range of housing options, from affordable townhomes to large single-family homes. The community has four recreation centers with pools, fitness facilities, and classes for all ages. Its location provides easy access to both Denver and the mountains.

Centennial

Centennial boasts top-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, and a thriving economy. It’s home to many parks, trails, and open spaces, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Centennial is also known for its strong sense of community, with many local events and festivals throughout the year.

Littleton

Littleton offers a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. Its historic downtown area features unique shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Littleton also has excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a variety of housing options, making it a popular choice for families. Learn more about Littleton, Colorado’s history on Wikipedia.

Superior

Superior is a rapidly growing suburb with excellent schools, a strong sense of community, and stunning views of the Flatirons. It offers a mix of housing options, from single-family homes to apartments and townhomes. The town has numerous parks, trails, and open spaces, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Residents also enjoy easy access to shopping and dining at the nearby FlatIron Crossing mall.

Parker

Parker offers a more rural feel than some of the other suburbs on this list, with larger lots and a more relaxed pace of life. It has excellent schools, a growing downtown area, and plenty of open space. Parker is also known for its equestrian community, with many horse properties and riding trails available.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a Denver suburb for your family, consider the following factors:

• Schools: Research the school districts and individual schools in each suburb.
• Safety: Check crime rates and neighborhood safety statistics.
• Housing: Consider your budget and housing needs.
• Commute: Evaluate the commute time to your workplace and other important destinations.
• Amenities: Think about the amenities that are important to your family, such as parks, recreation centers, shopping, and dining.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the safest suburb in Denver for families?

Generally, suburbs like Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, and Lone Tree are considered very safe with low crime rates, making them attractive to families.

Which Denver suburb has the best schools?

Suburbs like Littleton, Cherry Hills Village and Boulder Valley often have top-rated public schools. School ratings and test scores are readily available online for thorough research.

What is the most affordable Denver suburb for families?

Areas like Aurora and Commerce City can offer more affordable housing options compared to other more affluent suburbs closer to the mountains.

How far is Highlands Ranch from downtown Denver?

Highlands Ranch is approximately 20 miles south of downtown Denver, typically a 30-45 minute drive depending on traffic.

What kind of activities are available for kids in Centennial?

Centennial offers a variety of activities for kids, including parks, trails, recreation centers, and community events like festivals and farmers’ markets.

Summary

Choosing the best Denver suburb for your family requires careful consideration of your priorities and needs. By researching the schools, safety, housing options, and amenities of each suburb, you can find the perfect place to call home. Highlands Ranch, Centennial, Littleton, Superior, and Parker are consistently ranked among the top choices, but exploring your options and visiting different areas will help you make the best decision for your family.