Denver’s housing market reveals a compelling trend – in 2023, home prices dropped in 50 of the city’s 78 neighborhoods, creating an ideal opportunity to find your perfect neighborhood in Denver.
The city’s average home price stands at $738,128, with each area offering unique benefits. Washington Park boasts million-dollar homes while Central Park attracts families with its welcoming atmosphere. Denver’s 713,252 residents live in a variety of communities that match every lifestyle preference.
Our analysis ranks Denver’s top areas using home prices (30%), safety (25%), school ratings (15%), and special features (30%). The research highlights the city’s impressive features – 46 miles of urban trails, 28 Michelin-recognized restaurants, and six world-class museums. Let us show you the perfect spot to call home in the Mile High City.

Washington Park: Denver’s Premier Residential Haven

Named after the 165-acre urban oasis at its heart, Washington Park stands as one of Denver’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Locals call it “Wash Park,” and it ranks at the top of Denver’s favorite communities. Tree-lined streets and a blend of historic and modern homes create a perfect balance between natural beauty and residential charm.

Washington Park’s Historic Charm and Architecture

The park, designed in 1899 by landscape architect Reinhard Schuetze, remains the neighborhood’s pride. Schuetze’s original plan came to life in 1904, drawing inspiration from French landscape architect Edouard Francois Andre and German landscape gardener Gustav Meyer. His Victorian-inspired design features winding paths, sprawling lawns bordered by mature shade trees, and two lakes fed by the City Ditch.

The early 1900s brought major changes to the area. Washington Park Methodist Episcopal Church got its official name in 1911, right as the park’s landscaping neared completion and homes started popping up. Construction of a new church building started in 1917, and University of Denver Chancellor Henry Buchtel laid its cornerstone.

Smith Lake’s south shore boasts one of the park’s architectural gems – the Boathouse and Pavilion, a distinctive two-story structure built in 1913. Boats rest on the main level while an open pavilion upstairs hosts large gatherings. Eugene Field House, a charming Victorian cottage, found its home in the park in 1930. Titanic survivor and philanthropist Molly Brown added her touch by surrounding it with evergreens.

The neighborhood shows off an array of architectural styles. Brick houses from the early twentieth century dominate the landscape, while some nineteenth-century homes still grace West Washington Park.

Wash Park Recreation and Outdoor Activities

Washington Park’s 160 acres offer endless ways to stay active. Two paths circle the park – a 2.6-mile outer gravel trail perfect for walking and running, and an inner paved loop that cyclists and walkers love. These paths welcome everyone from bike riders to roller bladers, dog walkers, and even surrey riders.

Smith Lake and Grasmere Lake steal the show for water activities. Good weather brings out paddleboat, kayak, and canoe rentals near the historic Boathouse at sixteen-acre Smith Lake. Anyone with a proper license can try their luck at fishing.

Sports fans have their pick of ten tennis courts, a lawn bowling/croquet field, volleyball courts, and several playgrounds. The Washington Park Lawn Bowling Club has kept rolling since day one, with its regulation 120-foot square green and octagonal Club House from 1925.

The American Planning Association named the park one of the “Great Public Spaces in America” in 2012. This recognition shows why both Denver locals and visitors love it, with some saying it’s Denver’s answer to New York City’s Central Park.

Top-Rated Schools and Family Appeal

Washington Park draws families in part because of its stellar schools. Steele Elementary School shines as a top-rated K-5 public school that combines strong academics with close community ties. The school’s reputation helps explain why 27% of Washington Park’s homes have children.

Empty nesters who value peace, safety, and walkability share the neighborhood with active young families. The median age sits at 47 years, pointing to a mix of seasoned professionals and families. Residents here earn an average of $103,812, showing the neighborhood’s affluent nature.

The area’s safety record makes it even more appealing to families. Residents enjoy secure streets and strong community bonds. The fire station at Virginia Avenue and South Franklin Street, built in 1924, keeps four firefighters ready around the clock with one engine and one command car.

Washington Park Dining and Shopping Scene

Washington Park’s commercial life thrives in several charming districts. Historic South Gaylord Street, just four blocks west of the park, houses shops, restaurants, and bars in converted late 19th-century homes. South Pearl Street, which once carried Denver’s first trolley car, now hosts galleries, wine bars, cocktail spots, specialty shops, and some of the city’s finest local eateries.

Food options abound here. Devil’s Food Bakery on South Gaylord Street serves up fresh-baked treats in a cozy spot perfect for brunch and lunch. Max Gill & Grill pleases seafood lovers with crab cakes, raw bar selections, and daily fresh fish. Lucile’s Creole Cafe brings Louisiana flavors with chicory coffee, eggs sardou, and shrimp and grits, making it the go-to spot for weekend brunch.

Shoppers can find unique stores like the Denver Folklore Center, a legendary acoustic music shop that stocks everything from common to rare stringed instruments. From June through October, South Pearl Street comes alive every Sunday morning with a farmers’ market full of local produce, baked goods, artisan coffee, and handmade crafts.

Washington Park’s Norman Rockwell charm, green spaces, and classic storefronts create an ideal neighborhood that keeps attracting people who want the best of city living with a peaceful residential feel.

Cherry Creek: Luxury Living in the Mile High City

Cherry Creek stands out as Denver’s most sophisticated neighborhood. Just five minutes from downtown, this prestigious area blends luxury homes with top-tier shopping, dining, and recreation spots.

Cherry Creek Shopping District Highlights

Cherry Creek’s shopping scene ranks among Colorado’s best. The Cherry Creek Shopping Center serves as Denver’s fashion core with more than 300 stores and 75 cafes and restaurants. The district shines with its collection of luxury stores – the region’s largest – that includes prestigious names like Hermès, Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and Tory Burch.

Cherry Creek North adds to the retail experience with over 300 places to shop and dine. This charming spot mixes fashion boutiques, art galleries, spas, and fitness studios. The area has Denver’s highest concentration of locally-owned stores, giving you access to both global luxury brands and local artisans.

Kids will love the Denver Museum of Nature & Science’s Dinosaur Gulch. This indoor prehistoric-themed play area in the shopping center features slides, tunnels, and dinosaur structures they can climb.

Upscale Dining and Entertainment Options

The neighborhood’s food scene boasts over 50 restaurants and bars that range from casual spots to high-end dining. Several Cherry Creek chefs have earned national recognition and prestigious awards.

Some must-try restaurants include:

• Matsuhisa – Chef Nobu’s signature new-style Japanese cuisine
• Le Bilboquet – A premier French bistro modeled after the Upper East Side original
• Barolo Grill – Award-winning northern Italian cuisine with a Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning wine cellar
• Fortune Wok to Table – Authentic Chinese cuisine
• Blue Island Oyster Bar & Seafood – Fresh seafood options

Movie lovers can relax in heated reclining seats at Cherry Creek Shopping Center’s dine-in theater. The area comes alive throughout the year with signature events like live music shows, art festivals, and cultural celebrations.

Cherry Creek Housing Market and Real Estate Trends

The area’s housing market stays strong despite market changes. February 2025 data shows the median home sale price hit $1.60 million, up 0.5% from last year. The median price per square foot dropped 5.9% to $521.00 during this time.

Homes here sell after about 24 days on the market in this moderately competitive area. Most properties sell for 2% below list price, though popular “hot homes” might sell at full price within 4 days. Sales above list price jumped 7.9 percentage points to 13.2% year-over-year.

Luxury apartment seekers will find many upscale options with rents around $2474 monthly. The Residences at Fillmore Plaza shows off luxury living with boutique amenities and easy access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

The area faces some environmental challenges. About 10% of properties have minor flood risks, wildfire risk stays low, and heat risk is moderate. Experts project a 171% increase in days over 92°F in the next 30 years.

Parks and Recreation in Cherry Creek

Cherry Creek State Park is the neighborhood’s outdoor gem. This 4,200-acre paradise serves as Denver’s recreation hub. An 880-acre reservoir sits at its heart, perfect for boating, swimming, and fishing.

The park’s facilities include:

• 35 miles of mixed-use trails
• 133 campsites for overnight stays
• A dedicated model airplane runway
• Areas for picnicking and group events

Summer weekends draw big crowds as people enjoy both paved and unpaved trails. The reservoir buzzes with kayakers, paddleboarders, and sailors.

Residents also enjoy the 22-mile Cherry Creek Bike Path that connects to downtown, perfect for morning runs or afternoon rides.

School Quality and Educational Opportunities

Cherry Creek 5 School District provides great education options for families. Most schools in this district score above average, making it a top choice for families with school-age kids.

The district’s best elementary schools include Challenge School, Cherry Creek Charter Academy, and Cherry Hills Village Elementary School. These schools build strong academic foundations in supportive environments.

The Educational Opportunity Center at Community College of Denver helps residents access higher education. They help with college applications, financial aid, digital literacy, and career planning. First-generation and low-income students find this resource especially helpful.

The Cherry Creek Innovation Campus brings together “excellence in education with the innovation of industry”. Students can study aviation, automotive, business, hospitality, IT, manufacturing, construction, and healthcare.

Highland: A Blend of Historic and Modern Denver

Highland sits just northwest of downtown Denver. This neighborhood started as a separate town in the late 1800s and has grown into one of Denver’s most desirable areas. The city merged with Denver in 1896, and today it blends Victorian-era homes with new developments to create a unique mix of historic charm and modern appeal.

LoHi vs. West Highland: Understanding the Differences

People often talk about Highland as two separate neighborhoods—Highland (also known as East Highland or Lower Highland/LoHi) and West Highland. Each area has its own unique character.

LoHi fills the eastern section closer to downtown. You’ll find striking modern buildings next to historic structures. Young professionals flock here, and trendsetting businesses thrive. The Highland Bridge makes it easy to walk downtown.

West Highland spreads further west between 38th and 29th Avenues, with Federal and Sheridan Boulevards marking its borders. Tree-lined streets and a traditional neighborhood feel give this area its charm.

Population demographics tell an interesting story. West Highland’s population is 75.78% white and 19.17% Hispanic or Latino. Highland shows more diversity with 57.42% white and 37.25% Hispanic or Latino residents.

Walkable streets connect both areas’ residential and commercial sections, making life without a car possible.

Highland’s Restaurant and Bar Scene

Highland’s food scene ranks among Denver’s best. The neighborhood packs in numerous acclaimed restaurants and bars that make it a true food lover’s destination.

LoHi’s innovative restaurants lead the way. Root Down serves local ingredients in an award-winning space, while Linger dishes up creative food in a former mortuary building. El Five brings Mediterranean flavors and offers what many say are the best views of Denver’s skyline.

Italian food lovers have plenty of choices. Bar Dough serves creative pizzas and pastas, Spuntino brings authentic Italian flavors, and Señor Bear and Ash’Kara add Pan-Latin and Israeli options to the mix.

The drink scene matches the food quality. Williams & Graham captures a Prohibition-era speakeasy feel with expert bartenders mixing unique cocktails. Local craft beer flows at Denver Beer Co., Call to Arms Brewing Company, and Zuni Street Brewing.

Little Man Ice Cream’s iconic milk can building stands as a must-visit spot. Each scoop you buy helps feed people in need around the world.

Family-Friendly Aspects of Highland

Families love Highland for more than just its food. Green spaces dot the area, including Highland Park with its open areas, playground, and public library—perfect for family time.

Year-round community events bring neighbors together. The Highland Street Fair runs every June, marking almost 40 years as the neighborhood’s biggest “block party” with music, activities, and local business showcases. From May through October, Sunday brings the Highland Farmers Market alive with Colorado produce, pastries, and entertainment.

Confluence Park, where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River, got a $9.40 million upgrade that added better bike paths and walkways. People come here to paddleboard, kayak, and tube.

Kids and parents alike enjoy the family-friendly restaurants. Fox and The Hen serves breakfast all day in a fun setting, and Babe’s Tea Room offers special tea experiences for everyone.

Highland Real Estate and Housing Options

Highland’s homes range from historic Victorians to modern developments. Redfin shows LoHi’s median home price at $768,000, while West Highland homes cost more at $882,000.

Recent price changes might interest buyers—West Highland dropped 1.4% from last year, while LoHi prices fell 10%. These shifts could create good opportunities for people looking to move here.

The neighborhood’s history shows in its homes. Victorian houses from its early days stand next to new townhomes and updated bungalows. The Elitch Theater reminds everyone of the area’s rich past.

Apartment seekers have great choices too. Infinity LoHi, Modera LoHi, and Centric LoHi bring modern living to the neighborhood’s heart. West Highland offers Highland Junction and Trocadero Apartments.

Crime rates here match Denver’s averages, and residents feel safer than in the downtown area. This mix of historic beauty, great food, and diverse housing keeps drawing people who want an authentic Denver experience.

Five Points: Denver’s Cultural and Historical Gem

Five Points, a vibrant neighborhood northeast of downtown Denver, carries the proud nickname “Harlem of the West.” This historic district has evolved from one of Denver’s oldest neighborhoods into an area that’s growing faster while cherishing its cultural heritage and embracing modern influences.

The Rich History of Five Points

The neighborhood got its name from a unique intersection where five streets meet: Washington Street, 27th Street, 26th Avenue, and Welton Street. The area’s development started between the 1870s and 1893 during Denver’s growth boom, becoming a haven for African Americans throughout the city’s history.

Five Points blossomed as Denver’s African American community’s heart from the 1920s through the 1950s. Many Black leaders made their mark here, from pioneer-era Barney Ford to Wellington Webb, who became Denver’s first African American mayor in 1992.

The neighborhood’s story lives on through its landmarks. Colorado’s oldest African American congregation, Zion Baptist Church, started in 1865 in a log building at 20th and Arapahoe streets. The Glenarm YMCA, built in 1924, served as Five Points’ unofficial town hall with its swimming pool, gymnasium, library branch, and dormitories.

RiNo Art District: Creative Heart of Denver

The River North Art District, known as “RiNo,” sits within Five Points and many locals now call it a separate area. Artists Jill Hadley-Hooper and Tracy Weil saw potential in the empty warehouses and factories, leading them to create the River North Art District in 2005.

RiNo lives up to its motto “Where Art Is Made”. Old industrial buildings have found new life as jazz bars, restaurants, brewpubs, art galleries, and working studios. The district buzzes with creative businesses, from visual artists and designers to craft distillers, brewers, and winemakers.

Street art makes RiNo truly special. Vibrant murals cover buildings and alleys at almost every turn, creating an open-air gallery. Visitors can discover more than 80 installations using online interactive maps.

Five Points Dining and Nightlife

Jazz runs deep in Five Points’ DNA. The neighborhood’s musical journey began with Benny Hooper’s hotel and recreation center for Black servicemen in the 1920s. More than 50 bars and clubs once filled these streets, hosting legends like Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, and Nat King Cole.

The Rossonian Hotel stood at the center of it all. Built in 1912 as the Baxter Hotel and renamed in 1929, it became the most important jazz venue between St. Louis and Los Angeles, housing jazz greats between their Denver shows.

Today’s Five Points offers amazing food choices. Local restaurants serve some of Denver’s finest Caribbean, soul food, catfish, and barbecue. Nocturne, a modern jazz and supper club, keeps the area’s musical spirit alive with a contemporary twist.

Housing Affordability and Investment Potential

Denver faces housing challenges, and Five Points offers some solutions. The city needed between 13,148 and 30,930 housing units in 2022. Meeting population growth by 2028 will require 31,000 to 49,000 new housing units.

Developers see opportunities here. Goshen Development and Continuum Partners have plans for their second affordable housing project at 2510 Welton Street. This $28 million project will create 60 affordable homes plus 3,000 square feet of retail space.

A former RTD parking lot next to the L light rail line will become 62 affordable condos for families earning up to 80 percent of the area’s median income. Denver’s Department of Housing Stability has put $4.97 million toward this development.

Community Events and Cultural Celebrations

Five Points celebrates its heritage through lively community events:

• Five Points Jazz Festival – Each May brings more than 100 performers, delicious food, and family activities across multiple stages.
• Juneteenth – Started in Denver in 1953 by Otha Rice, this emancipation celebration now draws thousands with parades, concerts, and festivities.
• First Friday Five Points Jazz Hop – Year-round jazz comes alive at various Welton Street venues during this monthly event.

The Welton Street Cultural District’s walking tour lets visitors experience the neighborhood’s legacy up close. Community activist Jeff Fard captured the area’s spirit in 2005: “This is where you come to get fuel as an African American,” while noting that “This community captures that multiethnic feeling”.

South Park Hill: Quiet Elegance in Denver’s East Side

South Park Hill sits between Colorado Boulevard, Quebec Street, East 23rd Avenue, and Colfax Avenue. This eastern Denver gem ranks #3 among the Best Neighborhoods to Raise a Family with an A+ overall grade. The neighborhood perfectly blends suburban peace with city convenience.

South Park Hill’s Tree-Lined Streets and Architecture

Beautiful mature trees and diverse architecture give this neighborhood its distinct character. Oak and maple trees create a shady canopy along the grid-pattern streets. Historic parkways showcase elegant pre-midcentury homes that now make up protected districts. The architecture spans from the 1890s to 1945. You’ll find classic Craftsman bungalows next to Tudor Revival homes, Queen Anne Victorians, and Denver Squares. The neighborhood’s signature “Park Hill Porch” stands out with its brick piers that stretch through the roof and feature decorative capstones. Almost all homes here date back to 1893-1941 (95%), while another 4% were built between 1945 and 1954.

School Ratings and Educational Excellence

The neighborhood’s excellent schools attract many families. Park Hill Elementary School holds an impressive 8/10 GreatSchools rating. Students here excel with 75% math proficiency compared to the state’s 44% average. Science scores shine too – 69% proficiency versus the state’s 34%. East High School, Denver’s oldest, maintains an A rating and features unique programs like Constitutional Law. McAuliffe International School earned an A-minus from Niche.

Local Shops and Dining Options

East Colfax Avenue and nearby commercial areas offer something for everyone:

• Restaurants: Tables sets the perfect mood for date nights, while Fiction Beer Company brings together books and brews for a true Denver experience.
• Cafes: Torpedo Coffee serves local roasts, and Cake Crumbs Bakery makes some of Denver’s finest treats.
• Shopping: Oneida Park business center houses The Local Butcher and specialty stores, while Marczyk Fine Foods offers gourmet groceries.

Park Hill Real Estate Market Analysis

The South Park Hill housing market remains competitive despite recent changes. February 2025 saw median home prices at $600K, showing an 11.8% decrease from last year. Houses sell within 34 days, much quicker than last year’s 56-day average. Buyers often compete with multiple offers, and some waive contingencies. Most homes sell just 1% below asking price, though popular properties can fetch 1% more.

Community Feel and Neighborhood Safety

Strong community bonds and safety define South Park Hill. Recent surveys paint a welcoming picture – 82% say their neighbors are friendly, 85% feel safe walking at night, and 71% plan to stay long-term. The family-friendly atmosphere shows in the numbers: 88% report children playing outdoors and 94% note complete sidewalk coverage. Neighbors host frequent block parties without official involvement. Safety stats look good too – the area ranks 57th among Denver’s 78 neighborhoods for violent crimes per 1,000 residents.

Comparison Table

Attribute	Washington Park	Cherry Creek	Highland	Five Points	South Park Hill
Median Home Price	Not mentioned	$1.60 million	LoHi: $768,000; West Highland: $882,000	Not mentioned	$600,000
Notable Features	165-acre park with two lakes, Victorian architecture and historic design	4,200-acre state park, 880-acre reservoir and luxury shopping areas	Highland Bridge features a blend of Victorian and modern architecture	Rich jazz heritage, RiNo Art District with vibrant street murals	Tree-lined streets with historic parkways and pre-1945 architecture
School Quality	Excellent ratings with Steele Elementary as standout	Cherry Creek 5 District performs above average	Not mentioned	Not mentioned	Park Hill Elementary boasts 8/10 GreatSchools rating
Dining/Shopping	Local markets on South Gaylord and South Pearl Streets	Upscale shopping with 300+ stores and 75+ cafes	Popular restaurants including Root Down, Linger, and El Five	Authentic Caribbean and soul food spots with jazz clubs	Local favorites include Tables, Fiction Beer Company and Marczyk Fine Foods
Safety/Community	Safe neighborhood with 27% families with children	Affluent area with moderate flood risk	Crime statistics match Denver averages	Vibrant cultural scene with jazz festivals and diverse residents	Strong family presence with 85% residents feeling safe at night

Denver Charter Bus Rentals

Visiting Denver with a large group? Public transportation is a hassle and rideshares will get both expensive and complicated. In these situations, we recommend a Denver private shuttle from North American Charter Bus. It’s the most economical and comfortable way to cruise around town with your friends and family. North American Charter Bus provides clean, spacious charter buses, shuttles, and vans with friendly, professional drivers to drive you around different neighborhoods in Denver.

Conclusion

Denver’s neighborhoods each tell their own unique story. Washington Park charms residents with its Victorian designs and active lifestyle. Cherry Creek shines with its luxury shops and high-end living spaces. Highland beautifully mixes historic architecture with new developments. Five Points pulses with jazz heritage and artistic energy. South Park Hill’s tree-lined streets and great schools make it perfect for families.

The city’s real estate prices show quite a range. Cherry Creek tops the list at $1.6 million median prices, while South Park Hill offers homes starting at $600,000. These neighborhoods build strong bonds through local events, farmers’ markets and shared spaces.

Each area brings something special to the table. Washington Park’s recreation spots draw crowds daily. Cherry Creek’s shopping district buzzes with activity. Highland’s restaurants serve up amazing food. Five Points celebrates its rich culture. South Park Hill’s schools rank among the best. Together, they make Denver a city that fits any lifestyle.

These neighborhoods share excellent safety records and family-friendly features. Residents of all ages enjoy the parks, schools and community gatherings. Local shops and cafes give each street its own character.

Your perfect Denver neighborhood comes down to what matters most to you. Some people love historic homes, others want modern luxuries. You might seek cultural experiences or family-focused areas. These five neighborhoods prove Denver can match your lifestyle while keeping you connected to a strong community.

FAQs

Q1. What are some of the best neighborhoods to live in Denver? 

Some of the top neighborhoods in Denver include Washington Park, Cherry Creek, Highland, Five Points, and South Park Hill. Each offers unique amenities like parks, shopping districts, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scenes.

Q2. Which Denver neighborhood is known for luxury living? 

Cherry Creek is renowned for its upscale lifestyle, featuring luxury shopping, high-end dining, and some of the most expensive real estate in Denver. The area boasts a median home price of $1.60 million and numerous amenities catering to affluent residents.

Q3. What’s a good neighborhood in Denver for families? 

South Park Hill is an excellent choice for families, offering top-rated schools, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community. The neighborhood is known for its safety, beautiful historic homes, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Q4. Which Denver neighborhood has the best cultural and historical significance?

Five Points, often called the “Harlem of the West,” is rich in cultural and historical significance. It’s known for its jazz heritage, diverse community, and the vibrant RiNo Art District, which features numerous galleries, street art, and creative businesses.

Q5. What’s a good walkable neighborhood in Denver with easy access to amenities?

Highland is a highly walkable neighborhood that blends historic charm with modern developments. It offers easy access to numerous restaurants, bars, shops, and parks, making it popular among young professionals and families alike.