Denver, with its vibrant culture, stunning mountain views, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities, is an ideal place for families to live. However, many families prefer to live in the suburbs of Denver to enjoy more space, excellent schools, and a quieter environment, all while still being close to the city’s amenities. The suburbs surrounding Denver offer a wide range of options for families of all types. Whether you’re seeking a close-knit community, access to top-rated schools, or easy access to nature, Denver’s suburbs have it all.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best suburbs of Denver for families, highlighting what makes each one unique and why it could be the perfect place for you and your loved ones to call home. From suburban retreats with lots of green space to bustling neighborhoods with excellent schools and convenient amenities, there’s something for every family in the Denver metro area.
1. Cherry Hills Village: A Luxurious Family-Friendly Community
Why It’s Great for Families
If you’re looking for an upscale, family-friendly community with tree-lined streets, excellent schools, and luxurious homes, Cherry Hills Village is a top choice. This suburban gem is located just a few miles south of downtown Denver and offers a peaceful, serene environment while still being close to all the action in the city.
Cherry Hills Village is known for its large homes, sprawling properties, and low-density living, making it ideal for families who want privacy and space. The community is also highly sought after for its top-tier public schools, including Cherry Hills Village Elementary School and the nearby Denver Country Day School, both of which are well-regarded for their academic excellence.
What You’ll Love About Cherry Hills Village
- Top Schools: Cherry Hills Village is part of the Cherry Creek School District, which is one of the top-rated districts in the state of Colorado.
- Green Spaces: The area is home to several parks, including Cherry Hills Village Park and High Line Canal Trail, offering ample space for outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and picnicking.
- Safety: With its suburban feel and low crime rate, Cherry Hills Village is an incredibly safe place to raise a family. The neighborhood has a strong sense of community, and many families live here for the peace of mind it provides.
- Family-Friendly Amenities: The village offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including recreation centers, golf courses, and local events, making it a wonderful place for families to grow.
Best For: Families who want a luxurious, peaceful environment with excellent schools and plenty of space.
2. Littleton: A Quaint Suburb with Small-Town Charm
Why It’s Great for Families
Located just 10 miles south of downtown Denver, Littleton offers the charm of a small town with the convenience of being near the city. This suburb has a rich history and is home to friendly communities, scenic parks, and well-regarded schools. Littleton’s historic district, Old Littleton, is full of charming boutiques, cafes, and local events, while the surrounding neighborhoods offer a variety of housing options for growing families.
Littleton is also known for its family-oriented vibe and access to top-tier educational opportunities. The Littleton Public Schools district is consistently ranked among the best in the Denver metro area, making it an attractive option for parents who want to ensure their children receive a great education.
What You’ll Love About Littleton
- Top Schools: Littleton Public Schools offers an excellent education and a variety of extracurricular programs for students of all ages.
- Charming Historic District: Littleton’s Old Town is full of local shops, restaurants, and activities for families to enjoy together. The area hosts regular events like farmers’ markets, concerts, and festivals.
- Access to Nature: Littleton is close to some of the area’s best parks and outdoor spaces, including Hudson Gardens and South Platte Park, where you can hike, bike, and enjoy nature.
- Community Feel: Littleton offers a welcoming, tight-knit community, making it easy to meet people and build lasting relationships with neighbors.
Best For: Families looking for a small-town feel with big-city conveniences, great schools, and easy access to nature.
3. Highlands Ranch: A Modern Suburb with Excellent Amenities
Why It’s Great for Families
For families who want a suburban lifestyle with plenty of amenities and modern conveniences, Highlands Ranch is a fantastic choice. Located just south of Denver, Highlands Ranch offers a wide range of housing options, from townhomes to single-family homes, as well as top-rated schools, parks, and recreational facilities.
Highlands Ranch is a master-planned community, which means it has been designed with families in mind. The community features lots of green spaces, walking and biking trails, and various community centers, making it an ideal place for active families who love the outdoors.
What You’ll Love About Highlands Ranch
- Family-Friendly Amenities: The area has numerous parks, recreation centers, and community programs, including swimming pools, tennis courts, and sports leagues for kids and adults.
- Highly Rated Schools: Highlands Ranch is served by the Douglas County School District, which is known for its strong academic programs and well-rounded extracurricular offerings.
- Outdoor Activities: With over 70 miles of trails, numerous parks, and nearby Red Rocks Park, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy as a family.
- Safety and Community: Highlands Ranch has a reputation for being a safe, family-friendly community with a strong sense of neighborhood involvement.
Best For: Families who want modern amenities, great schools, and a wide range of recreational options.
4. Broomfield: A Suburban Gem with a Strong Sense of Community
Why It’s Great for Families
Broomfield is a growing suburban area located between Denver and Boulder, offering the best of both worlds. It’s known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and close proximity to major employment centers in both cities. Whether you’re looking for a quieter lifestyle or easy access to urban amenities, Broomfield has it all.
The city is also home to a variety of parks, playgrounds, and open spaces, making it a great place for families who enjoy spending time outdoors. Broomfield is part of the Boulder Valley School District, which is highly regarded for its strong academic programs and extracurricular opportunities.
What You’ll Love About Broomfield
- Outstanding Schools: Broomfield’s schools are part of the Boulder Valley School District and are known for their strong academic performance and diverse extracurricular activities.
- Access to Nature: The city is home to Broomfield Community Park, Broadlands Park, and Flatiron Crossing Park, all of which offer plenty of space for outdoor recreation.
- Family-Oriented Events: Broomfield regularly hosts family-friendly events, such as the Broomfield Days Festival, summer concerts, and holiday parades.
- Convenient Location: Located between Denver and Boulder, Broomfield offers an easy commute to both cities, making it ideal for families who work in either location.
Best For: Families who want access to excellent schools, great parks, and a strong sense of community, all while being centrally located.
5. Centennial: A Growing Suburb with Great Schools and Parks
Why It’s Great for Families
Centennial is one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the Denver metro area, and it’s easy to see why so many families are flocking to this community. Located just south of downtown Denver, Centennial offers a mix of suburban comfort and urban amenities, making it an ideal place for families of all sizes.
The suburb is known for its exceptional public schools, excellent parks and recreation options, and family-friendly vibe. With plenty of activities for kids, great schools, and lots of outdoor spaces, Centennial is a great place for families who want a balance of convenience and community.
What You’ll Love About Centennial
- Top-Rated Schools: Centennial is served by the Cherry Creek School District, one of the top-rated districts in Colorado, ensuring your children will receive a high-quality education.
- Parks and Recreation: Centennial is home to several parks, including Cherry Knolls Park and Centennial Center Park, where families can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and playgrounds.
- Active Lifestyle: The city is committed to promoting an active lifestyle, offering walking trails, sports complexes, and other recreational opportunities for families.
- Safe and Family-Friendly: With low crime rates and a focus on community building, Centennial is one of the safest places to raise a family in the Denver metro area.
Best For: Families looking for a well-rounded, family-friendly suburb with excellent schools and plenty of outdoor activities.
6. Castle Rock: A Charming Suburb with a Small-Town Feel
Why It’s Great for Families
Castle Rock, located to the south of Denver, is a charming suburb with a small-town feel and a growing number of amenities for families. Known for its beautiful homes, outdoor recreation opportunities, and tight-knit community, Castle Rock is an ideal place for families who want a quieter lifestyle with easy access to both Denver and Colorado Springs.
Castle Rock is also home to Castle Rock Adventist Hospital, and several parks and recreation centers, making it an attractive location for families seeking a peaceful environment without sacrificing modern conveniences.
What You’ll Love About Castle Rock
- Great Schools: Castle Rock is served by the Douglas County School District, which offers high-quality educational opportunities for students.
- Small-Town Charm: Castle Rock’s historic downtown area is full of local shops, cafes, and parks, creating a charming atmosphere for families to enjoy.
- Access to Nature: The town is surrounded by open space, hiking trails, and parks, including Rock Park and The Meadows, offering plenty of outdoor activities for families.
- Family-Friendly Events: Castle Rock hosts a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year, including Castle Rock’s Summer Concerts and Festival Park events.
Best For: Families who want a quieter, small-town atmosphere with access to good schools and outdoor activities.
Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Suburb for Your Family
Denver’s suburbs offer a wide variety of options for families looking to settle down in the Mile High City. Whether you prioritize excellent schools, outdoor recreation, or community amenities, there’s a suburb that’s perfect for your family. From the upscale luxury of Cherry Hills Village to the charming small-town feel of Castle Rock, there’s a suburb that suits every family’s needs and lifestyle.
Take the time to explore these top neighborhoods and find the one that feels like home for you and your loved ones. No matter where you choose to live, you’ll have access to all that Denver has to offer—great schools, wonderful parks, and a family-friendly atmosphere that makes this area one of the best places to live in the country.
Happy house hunting!
