If you’re planning a move to Denver with kids, you’re probably asking the same question most families do: “Where should we live?”
Denver is a rapidly growing city with a population of over 760,000, and it offers a little bit of everything: top-tier schools, outdoor adventure, and diverse neighborhoods. But not every area is created equal when it comes to raising a family.
This guide breaks down the best neighborhoods for families based on what really matters: safety, school quality, affordability, and overall lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for quiet suburbs or a walkable neighborhood with parks and local shops, Denver has a place for you.
Why Families Are Moving to Denver
Denver consistently ranks among the top cities in the U.S. for families—and for good reason. It offers the perfect blend of outdoor living, economic opportunity, and urban convenience. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- 300+ days of sunshine per year. You can count on good weather for park days, hikes, or bike rides almost year-round.
- Excellent public schools. Denver and its suburbs are home to some of the highest-rated school districts in Colorado, like Cherry Creek and Littleton Public Schools.
- Family-focused communities. Whether you want suburban calm or an urban neighborhood with parks and playgrounds, Denver has options for every family type and budget.
- Easy access to nature. From weekend trips to the Rockies to skiing, hiking, and fishing just outside the city limits, you’re never far from an adventure.
- Strong economy and job market. Denver’s booming tech, healthcare, and energy sectors offer career opportunities without sacrificing quality of life.
If you’re looking for a city that supports both your family and your future, Denver delivers.
What to Look for in a Family-Friendly Neighborhood
Not all neighborhoods that look nice on paper are built for family life. Here’s what really counts when you’re choosing a place to raise your kids:
- Top-rated schools: Access to strong public school districts and highly ranked elementary and high schools
- Low crime rates: Safe streets, active neighborhoods, and a sense of security
- Home options for real budgets: A variety of homes, from entry-level condos to spacious family properties, with prices that match a range of incomes
- Kid-friendly amenities: Parks, rec centers, playgrounds, libraries, trails, splash pads, and sports fields nearby
- Convenient location: Easy commute to work, access to highways or public transit, and close to shopping, grocery stores, and healthcare>
Now, let’s break down the best neighborhoods in the Denver metro area for families in 2025 based on what really matters.
Centennial
Best for: Affordable living with excellent schools and outdoor access
Centennial is one of Denver’s safest suburbs, offering top-notch public schools and a laid-back suburban feel. It’s just southeast of Denver proper and is known for its strong community and access to outdoor recreation.
Highlights:
- School Districts: Cherry Creek School District and Littleton Public Schools (both A-rated)
- Home Prices: Average around $449,000, with options ranging from starter condos to spacious family homes
- Family Perks: Cherry Creek State Park nearby with trails, a reservoir for water activities, and picnic areas
- Vibe: Spacious, safe, suburban with quick access to shopping centers like Streets at SouthGlenn
Centennial offers a lot of flexibility in terms of budget and lifestyle. If you want quiet streets and strong schools without overspending, it’s hard to beat.
Greenwood Village
Best for: High-income families looking for space, prestige, and excellent schools
Greenwood Village is a luxury suburb south of Denver that combines peaceful living with access to the Denver Tech Center. It’s a prime location for families who value school quality, low crime rates, and larger homes.
Highlights:
- School District: Cherry Creek School District, including top schools like Campus Middle and Cherry Creek High
- Home Prices: Average around $900,000, with some estate-style properties well into the millions
- Family Perks: Tons of green space, quiet streets, and access to local business hubs
- Vibe: Upscale, professional, private
This neighborhood is ideal for families who want the space and amenities of suburban life but still need quick access to city jobs or business districts.
Washington Park
Best for: Families who want a neighborhood feel close to the city
Washington Park, or “Wash Park” as locals call it, is only five miles from downtown Denver and one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. Its centerpiece, Washington Park, is a massive 155-acre green space with lakes, gardens, and miles of trails.
Highlights:
- Schools: Steele Elementary and East High School (a top 10 school in the state)
- Home Prices: Average around $800,000, with a mix of historic homes and modern renovations
- Family Perks: Walkable to local restaurants, shopping on South Pearl Street, and a year-round farmer’s market
- Vibe: Classic, community-oriented, active
Wash Park combines the charm of an older neighborhood with the energy of the city. It’s perfect for families who want walkability and culture but don’t want to live downtown.
Littleton
Best for: Budget-conscious families who want a small-town atmosphere
Located about 12 miles southwest of downtown Denver, Littleton offers a slower pace of life without sacrificing access to the city. It’s one of the most affordable family-friendly areas and is packed with parks, shops, and community events.
Highlights:
- Schools: Littleton Public Schools, Littleton Academy, Mackintosh Academy
- Home Prices: Average around $440,000, with a wide range of affordable homes and condos
- Family Perks: Historic downtown Littleton, Hudson Gardens, and light rail access for commuters
- Vibe: Relaxed, community-driven, small-town-within-city reach
Littleton is great for families who want a neighborly feel with room to grow. It’s also one of the more stable markets, and many families move here and stay long-term.
South Park Hill
Best for: Families who value diversity, charm, and cultural access
South Park Hill blends classic architecture with modern energy. It’s close to City Park, the Denver Zoo, and the Museum of Nature & Science, which means endless options for weekend family outings.
Highlights:
- Schools: Park Hill Elementary, East High, and multiple private options
- Home Prices: Average around $670,000, with many remodeled historic homes
- Family Perks: Walkable blocks, boutique shops, and quick access to cultural hotspots
- Vibe: Quiet, artistic, tree-lined, and diverse
Park Hill stands out for its tight-knit feel and vibrant community, offering more culture and character than a typical suburb.
Wellshire
Best for: Families prioritizing education and a quiet, close-knit community
Wellshire is one of Denver’s safest, most education-focused neighborhoods. It’s quiet, clean, and ideal for long-term family living. You’ll find mostly homeowners here, and it’s common to see kids riding bikes or neighbors catching up over coffee.
Highlights:
- Schools: Slavens K–8 (A+ rated, among the best in the state)
- Home Prices: Around $750,000 on average, largely single-family ranch-style homes
- Family Perks: Wellshire Golf Course, large yards, and a very low crime rate
- Vibe: Suburban calm with strong neighborhood ties
If you’re looking for stability, safety, and strong public schools, Wellshire checks every box.
Berkeley
Best for: Active families who want fun, flavor, and walkability
Berkeley is one of Denver’s trendiest neighborhoods, popular with young families who love the outdoors and being close to the action. It’s full of local restaurants, parks, and pet-friendly trails.
Highlights:
- Schools: STRIVE Prep and other well-rated public and private options
- Home Prices: Average around $652,000, with a mix of historic Tudors and modern duplexes
- Family Perks: Berkeley Lake Park, Rocky Mountain Lake Park, and access to I-70 for weekend trips
- Vibe: Trendy, active, creative
Berkeley is great if you want the benefits of city life with a residential feel. It’s also very dog- and kid-friendly.
Choosing the Right Neighborhood
With so many great neighborhoods in Denver, the biggest challenge isn’t finding a good option, it’s choosing between several strong contenders. The best way to start is by identifying your top priorities: Are schools non-negotiable? Do you want a walkable area? Is budget the main driver? Once you’re clear on your family’s needs, the right neighborhood will start to stand out.
Here’s a quick guide to help you narrow it down:
- Need excellent schools at a manageable price? Centennial or Littleton
- Looking for luxury and space? Greenwood Village or Wellshire
- Want a walkable area near downtown? Washington Park or Berkeley
- Prefer charm and diversity? South Park Hill
Every family’s situation is different. You may be relocating for a job, planning to grow your family, or simply searching for a better lifestyle. No matter your reason, Denver has a place that fits your goals and your budget. Take the time to explore, visit, and weigh your options. Your perfect neighborhood is out there.
Ready to Move to Denver?
When you’ve picked your perfect Denver neighborhood, don’t let moving logistics get in the way. Whether you’re relocating from out of state or just across town, we make family moves simple. Moving with kids requires more than just packing boxes. You’re juggling school transfers, routines, and keeping your home life somewhat sane during the chaos. That’s where we come in.
Get a free estimate from Moving Proz today, and let us help you settle into your new home in Denver without the stress.