If you’re thinking about moving to the Denver area, Lakewood should be on your radar. With just over 160,000 residents, this city combines the perks of Colorado living, including mountains, sunshine, and outdoor adventures, with the calm of suburban life. It is big enough to have opportunities and activities, but small enough that you will not feel lost in the shuffle.
Whether you’re starting a family, launching a career, or just craving a change of scenery, here is what makes Lakewood a great place to call home.
Jobs Without the Stress
Before packing your boxes, you probably want to know about work. Good news: Lakewood has a thriving job market. The city’s economy is diverse, with opportunities in:
- Healthcare and social services
- Education and childcare
- Government jobs at all levels
- Tech, software, and IT
- Retail and marketing
Lakewood’s location is perfect if you want access to Denver’s bigger job scene without enduring heavy city traffic. Depending on where you live, you could even bike to work or hop on the light rail.
Pro tip: Look for neighborhoods that give you a short commute while still offering green space for downtime. You will thank yourself later.
Living Costs That Make Sense
Housing in Lakewood is slightly cheaper than in Denver, which is great if you want more space for your money. Average numbers look like this:
- Median home price: $409,300
- Average rent: $1,446
- Average salary: $69,805
The city strikes a nice balance. Costs are a little above the national average, but incomes generally keep pace. Families and young professionals often find it a sweet spot between affordability and amenities.
Schools That Shine
If kids are part of the picture, Lakewood will not disappoint. The area has nearly 100 schools, including public, private, charter, and preschools. Many schools in Jefferson County perform above the national average, so your child can get a strong education without having to drive miles across town.
Top picks include:
- Green Mountain High School
- Lakewood High School
- Addenbrooke Classical Academy
- Bear Creek K-8
Parent tip: Check for extracurriculars early. They can be just as important as academics in a child’s development.
Neighborhoods You Will Actually Love
Not all neighborhoods are created equal. Here is a breakdown of where to plant roots depending on your lifestyle:
- Solterra: Upscale homes, parks, and community events. Around $1 million.
- Tamarisk: Large estates, golf courses, and quick access to Denver. Around $1.2 million.
- Applewood Knolls: Ranch-style homes, a strong sense of community, and sports complexes. Around $1 million.
- Bear Creek Village: Nature-focused and community-driven. Homes over $1.5 million.
- Thraemoor: Centered on Harvey Park Recreation Center, ideal for active families. Around $1.2 million.
More budget-friendly options include Union Square, Carmody, Kendrick Lake, and Belmar Park.
Things to Do in Lakewood
Lakewood is never boring. Whether you are outdoorsy, a foodie, or a culture lover, there is plenty to do:
Outdoor Fun
- Bear Creek Lake Park: Hiking, fishing, boating, horseback riding, camping, and more
- Green Mountain Park: Miles of trails and chances to spot wildlife like deer and hawks
- Golf: Lakewood Country Club, Fox Hollow, Fossil Trace, Bear Creek Golf Club
Indoor Fun
- Carmody Recreation Center: Gym, basketball, pickleball, aerobics, and swimming
- Rods and Bods Movie Car Museum: See the Scooby-Doo van and the Ghostbusters car
- Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys: Unique exhibits for kids and adults alike
- Art and shopping: West Arts Creative District and Colorado Mills Mall offer everything from galleries to IMAX
Foodie Favorites
- Simms Steak House: Buffets, brunch, happy hour, and buffalo quail
- Union: Seasonal menus focused on local produce
- Café Jordano: Italian classics like gnocchi, fettuccine, and lasagna
- Little India: Authentic northern Indian cuisine cooked in a tandoor oven
- Craft breweries: Green Mountain Beer Company and Frontier Brewing Company
Community That Feels Like Home
Lakewood thrives on community events that bring neighbors together. Expect free concerts, sports camps, poetry slams, Pride events, and picnics in local parks. You will quickly discover that small-town charm with big-city amenities is real in Lakewood.
Ready to Move to Lakewood?
Moving does not have to be stressful. Start your adventure off right by hiring professional movers to help with local or long-distance relocations. With the right moving team, your move to Lakewood can be smooth, allowing you to enjoy your new city from day one.
Explore neighborhoods, schedule school tours if you have kids, and maybe check out a craft brewery or park while house hunting. You will see why Lakewood feels like home as soon as you set foot in it.
Request a free estimate today!