10 Best Denver Suburbs for Families (2024)
- Holly Hills
- Superior
- Castle Pines
- Highlands Ranch
- Greenwood Village
- Cherry Hills Village
- Columbine Valley
- Centennial
- Erie
- Broomfield
1. Holly Hills
The best Denver suburb for families is Holly Hill. Situated about 10 miles northwest of downtown Denver, this city is desirable for its exceptional schools, convenient location, and peaceful atmosphere. Just under 3,000 people live in Holly Hills, making it one of the most exclusive suburbs in Denver.
In addition to privacy, residents here can appreciate the area’s variety of natural parks, manicured neighborhoods, and emphasis on diversity and inclusivity. Favorite things to do in Holly Hills include golfing at one of the area’s many golf courses and visiting the University of Denver. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that Holly Hills is the premier choice for suburban Denver families.
2. Superior
Superior is a fantastic Denver suburb for families that love the outdoors. Located directly between Denver and Boulder, this city is home to about 13,000 people and is best for those who prefer an active area with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
The city is particularly known for its high standard of living, which includes a low crime rate, high academic achievement, and an active local community. But, the crown jewel of Superior is its convenient access to the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains, which provides residents with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing, camping, and more.
For those who prefer more urban amenities, not to worry – the city has a diverse range of shopping and dining options. All of this and more make Superior the second-most desirable Denver suburb.
3. Castle Pines
In addition to being one of Denver’s best suburbs, Castle Pines is also one of the wealthiest. This city is about 25 miles south of the heart of Denver and is home to a close-knit community of just over 12,000 people. Residents are drawn to Castle Pines for its high quality of life, which includes low crime rates, exceptional school districts, and upscale neighborhoods.
Additionally, those who call this city home will find a peaceful, small-town atmosphere while still remaining central to everything Denver has to offer. The median household income in Castle Pines is $187k, making it one of the best Denver suburbs for those who prefer a more upscale lifestyle.
4. Highlands Ranch
Situated about 19 miles south of downtown Denver is Highlands Ranch, another one of the city’s best suburbs. With a total land mass of 24.27 square miles and a bustling population of just over 103,000 people, Highlands Ranch is among the state’s largest suburbs, making it ideal for those who prefer proper urban living.
Apart from its considerable size, the city is also particularly known for its master-planned design, carefully developed with more than 20 parks and over 70 miles of hiking and biking trails. When coupled with the area’s low crime rate, strong local community, and bustling local entertainment, it’s easy to see why Highlands Ranch is universally considered a well-rounded suburb for Denver families.
5. Greenwood Village
A thriving community located about miles west of downtown Denver, Greenwood Village is another top choice among Denver families. This area is home to about 16,000 people, all of whom prefer the area for its upscale neighborhoods, bustling local economy, and well-educated resident base. Despite being a densely populated area, the village is home to several parks and open spaces, including Westlands State Park and Silo Park.
Those who move here will also find no shortage of shopping and dining destinations, as well as cultural attractions, favorites of which include the Curtis Center for the Arts and the Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre. Both venues host several art, cultural, and live music events throughout the year, which help keep the local economy booming. Hinsdale is certainly not to be overlooked when considering the best Denver suburbs.
6. Cherry Hills Village
Cherry Hills Village is the best Denver suburb for those who desire quick access to the city. Located within 9 miles north of downtown Denver, this area provides its 6,353 residents with the most convenient commute of any suburb on this list. But, in addition to this ideal location, Cherry Hills Village is also known for its high-end real estate, affluent resident base, and peaceful atmosphere – all of which are additional draws for local families.
The city is also home to several local parks and recreational centers, such as the High Line Canal Trail and the Cherry Hills Country Club, which provide ample opportunity for outdoor adventure. With high per capita income and some of the safest streets in Colorado, it’s no wonder Cherry Hills Village is one of Denver’s most coveted suburbs.
7. Columbine Valley
Columbine Valley is another one of the best Denver suburbs for families. Situated about 12 miles from the heart of Denver, this city is best known for its quiet streets, close-knit community, and distinctly small-town atmosphere. A primarily residential community, families typically come to Columbine Valley to find a private living situation while still remaining convenient to the big city.
Additionally, those who move to Columbine Valley can take advantage of its ample recreational facilities, golf courses, and abundant local events, such as the Fourth of July Parade. Overall, Columbine Valley is a great place to find the best of both small-town and urban living.
8. Centennial
Centennial is another one of the best Denver suburbs for families. Located about 16 miles southeast of Denver, Centennial is a safe, family-friendly community with excellent schools and easy access to parks and amenities. The home rule municipality is home to just over 100,000 residents. It’s a very safe city with a violent crime rate that is 47% lower than the national average.
Centennial is situated right next to Cherry Creek State Park, a sprawling green space wrapped around an 880-acre reservoir that is great for camping, swimming, and other outdoor activities. Residents can also enjoy plenty of shopping, dining and entertainment options at the outdoor shopping mall at the Streets of SouthGlen. As a result, Centennial is a great place to live for growing families in search of quiet streets and quality amenities.
9. Erie
Erie is another one of the top Denver suburbs for families. Home to about 30,000 residents, Erie is a quiet town located about 28 miles north of Denver. It offers residents a robust economy, beautiful scenery, and an affordable cost of living. There are over a dozen parks in and around the town, including Erie Community Park, which features playgrounds, picnic tables, basketball courts, and more.
It’s a major hub for the arts, and the Erie Coalition of Artists hosts regular showcases and events at the Community Center and High Plains Library. It’s also a very safe area, and the violent crime rate is 88% lower than the rest of the country.
10. Broomfield
Broomfield is also one of the best suburbs of Denver for raising a family. The consolidated city-county has a population of just under 75,000 residents, making it the 15th largest in the state of Colorado. With breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, friendly residents, and a strong local economy, Broomfield is an excellent place to raise a family.
In a 2021 survey, 95% of Broomfield residents said that it was an “excellent” or “good” place to live based on its economic vitality and access to amenities. Often ranked one of the best places to live in America, Broomfield features top-rated hospitals like UCHealth Broomfield, well-respected K-12 schools, and 28 public parks, making it the perfect place to raise a family.