10 Best Neighborhoods in the Denver Area for Renters (2025 Guide)

Denver is more than mountain views and a striking skyline. It’s a city made up of distinct neighborhoods, each offering something different for renters. From energetic urban districts to quieter suburban enclaves, the Denver metro area has options to match every lifestyle. Whether you're looking for a shorter commute, local nightlife, access to nature, or budget-friendly housing, there's a neighborhood that fits. Here are 10 of the best areas in Denver for renters, and what makes each one stand out.

 

Choosing the Best Denver Neighborhood for Renters

Finding your ideal Denver neighborhood means balancing several key factors that impact your daily life. Consider these essential elements:

• Commute and access: To your workplace and major city hubs, along with highway connectivity for broader travel.
• Daily essentials: Proximity to grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, and other daily necessities.
• Schools and education: Quality of local schools and access to colleges or universities.
• Recreation opportunities: Access to parks, trails, and outdoor recreation areas for an active Colorado lifestyle.
• Healthcare: Availability of nearby hospitals, clinics, and emergency services.
• Neighborhood character: The overall atmosphere – urban living energy or suburban communities' quiet.
• Rental availability: Areas with abundant apartment communities and rental options, ensuring plenty of options.
• Future development: Neighborhoods with promising growth that might improve amenities and value.

• Pet friendliness: Availability of dog parks, trails, and communities with pet-friendly policies.

 

1. Capitol Hill/Central Denver

Capitol Hill sits just east of downtown and remains one of Denver’s most densely populated neighborhoods. It’s known for its layered architecture, including historic Victorian mansions, mid-century walk-ups, and newer apartment buildings. The neighborhood has the highest concentration of rentals in the city, offering a wide range of options from restored historic units to modern mid-rises. Downtown is only one to two miles away, making commutes short and flexible. Residents benefit from multiple ways to get around: a quick 5 to 10 minute drive along Colfax Avenue or Speer Boulevard, reliable RTD bus service on major streets, or bike lanes running throughout the area. With so many options, living without a car is a real possibility in Capitol Hill.

Central Denver refers to the adjacent neighborhoods surrounding Capitol Hill, forming one of the city’s most established residential cores. The area is home to several of Denver’s major civic and cultural institutions, including the Denver Zoo and the Museum of Nature & Science in City Park. Cheesman Park adds another large green space, just a few blocks from high-density housing, and remains a popular spot for daily outdoor activities. Colfax Avenue runs east to west through Central Denver, lined with restaurants, music venues, bookstores, and longtime local businesses. East High School, one of the city’s most historic and well-regarded public schools, is also located here. With its mix of local landmarks, everyday services, and neighborhood character, Central Denver draws residents who want to live close to the city’s core.

 

2. Uptown (North Capitol Hill)

Uptown perfectly balances urban energy and residential charm just northeast of downtown Denver. Centered around the 17th Avenue corridor, this neighborhood combines historic architecture with modern conveniences. With the State Capitol marking its southwest corner and downtown just a mile away, Uptown delivers prime positioning without the downtown price premium.

Living in Uptown means staying connected. Bus routes along 17th Avenue and nearby streets make it simple to reach downtown and Union Station. Light rail stops just outside the neighborhood, and a growing network of bike lanes makes it convenient to get around without a car. With several major hospitals nearby, many healthcare professionals enjoy the convenience of living just minutes from work.

Uptown blends historic charm with a modern lifestyle. Apartment buildings sit alongside 19th-century homes, creating a neighborhood with real character. Along 17th Avenue, known as “Restaurant Row,” you’ll find everything from casual brunch spots to chef-driven restaurants. On weekends, locals head to City Park for concerts or catch a live show at the Fillmore. It’s an ideal spot for renters who want downtown access, great food, and a true neighborhood feel.

 

3. Five Points/RiNo (River North Art District)

Five Points and the adjacent RiNo district represent Denver's past and future in one neighborhood. Historically known as the "Harlem of the West" for its rich jazz heritage, Five Points now shares its story with RiNo, where industrial warehouses have transformed into galleries, breweries, and creative spaces. Bordering downtown's northeast edge, this area places residents within a mile of the central business district while fostering its own distinctive cultural identity.

Five Points and RiNo are well-connected neighborhoods with plenty of ways to get around. The L Line runs along Welton Street, and the A-Line to Denver International Airport stops at 38th & Blake in the heart of RiNo. Bus service is frequent, and the street grid supports a variety of transportation options. Many residents commute downtown using Welton or Larimer, whether by bus, bike, or other means, making car ownership a choice rather than a necessity.

Housing in the area includes everything from renovated historic row homes to modern loft-style apartments. Communities like The Douglas Apartments near Coors Field offer a blend of central access and contemporary design. The cultural mix is just as diverse. Welton Street honors Five Points’ legacy of jazz and soul food, while RiNo adds its own creative energy through murals, breweries, and spots like Denver Central Market. Events like the Five Points Jazz Festival and First Friday art walks bring the neighborhood’s personality to life, offering a rich blend of old and new.

 

4. Highland/Jefferson Park

The Highlands area offers an elevated perspective on Denver, both literally and figuratively. Perched northwest of downtown across the Platte River and I-25, Highland and Jefferson Park deliver stunning city views alongside a distinctive neighborhood character. This area blends trendy hotspots with peaceful residential blocks, creating an appealing balance for renters who want proximity to downtown energy with a more relaxed home base.

Despite feeling separate from downtown, the Highlands are remarkably accessible. A short drive along Speer Boulevard or Zuni Street connects to the city center in about five minutes. Major highways like I-25 and US-6 run along the neighborhood’s edge, making regional travel straightforward. Several bus routes serve the area, and nearby light rail stations at Empower Field and Decatur-Federal offer additional transit options.

The Highlands' architecture tells the story of Denver's evolution, from historic Victorians to contemporary developments. Highland proper (especially LoHi) has become one of Denver's premier dining destinations, with acclaimed restaurants, craft breweries, and the iconic Little Man Ice Cream drawing visitors from across the city. Jefferson Park offers a slightly quieter alternative centered around its namesake green space with spectacular downtown views. On football Sundays, the neighborhood comes alive with fans heading to nearby Empower Field at Mile High, while the Platte River Trail provides a scenic recreational corridor connecting residents to the broader city.

 

5. Baker/Speer

Baker and the adjacent Speer district create a distinctive corridor connecting downtown to the southern parts of the city. Centered along South Broadway and the Speer Boulevard greenway, this area has developed a reputation for artistic flair and independent spirit. Just two miles south of downtown, Baker offers the perfect blend of accessibility and attitude for renters who appreciate character and convenience.

There are plenty of transportation options in the Baker/Speer area. The area is served by two light rail stations (I-25 & Broadway and Alameda) and numerous high-frequency bus routes along Broadway, Lincoln, and Alameda. These transit corridors make car-free commuting practical for many residents, with downtown just a 10-minute drive or bus ride away. The Cherry Creek Trail also runs through the eastern portion of the area, providing cyclists and pedestrians with a scenic route connecting to downtown and beyond.

Baker's historic core features colorful Victorian-era homes and brick buildings housing an eclectic mix of apartments and local businesses. South Broadway ("SoBo") forms the neighborhood's commercial heart, lined with vintage boutiques, record stores, performance venues, and Denver's most distinctive bars and breweries. The district emanates creative energy, from the live music at Hi-Dive to experimental restaurants and independent galleries. With its bohemian spirit and central location, Baker attracts renters who value authenticity and urban convenience in equal measure.

 

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6. Cherry Creek

Cherry Creek represents Denver's most refined urban neighborhood, located about three miles southeast of downtown. Centered around the Cherry Creek Shopping Center and adjacent Cherry Creek North district, this area has established itself as the city's premier luxury shopping and dining destination. The neighborhood balances cosmopolitan amenities with leafy residential streets, creating an urban oasis that appeals to renters seeking sophistication and convenience.

While Cherry Creek lacks light rail service, it compensates with excellent road connectivity and strategic bus routes. Downtown is a straightforward 15-minute drive via First Avenue or Speer Boulevard, with several RTD bus lines (including routes 1 and 83L) connecting Cherry Creek to downtown and surrounding areas. The neighborhood's crown jewel for active transportation is the Cherry Creek Trail—a paved pathway that offers cyclists and pedestrians a scenic, direct route to downtown, free from traffic lights and crosswalks.

Cherry Creek is known for its polished apartment communities, with a mix of high-rise and mid-rise buildings offering updated finishes and thoughtful amenities. Options like Sienna at Cherry Creek Apartments give renters access to the neighborhood’s central location and established charm. The area revolves around two main retail hubs: the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, which features national brands, and Cherry Creek North, which is home to local boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. With easy access to the Cherry Creek Trail, the Botanic Gardens, and well-kept outdoor spaces, the neighborhood offers a balance of city life and open-air escapes.

 

7. Green Valley Ranch

For renters willing to trade downtown proximity for space, value, and modern amenities, Green Valley Ranch offers an attractive proposition in northeast Denver. This newer planned community near Denver International Airport features contemporary housing, abundant green spaces, and a growing selection of retail and services. The neighborhood delivers suburban comfort while maintaining connectivity to the broader city, particularly appealing to airport employees and those seeking newer construction at competitive prices.

Though 15-20 miles from downtown (about a 30-minute drive via I-70), Green Valley Ranch offers excellent transportation connections. The RTD A-Line commuter rail serves the area with stations at 61st & Peña and 40th & Airport/Peña, providing direct 30-minute train service to downtown's Union Station or a quick 10-minute ride to the airport. Local bus routes connect neighborhoods to these rail stations, making regular downtown commutes feasible without the need for driving.

Green Valley Ranch is a newer neighborhood on Denver’s northeast edge, offering a mix of contemporary apartment communities and a spacious suburban layout. Parkfield Apartment Homes is one local option that reflects the area’s growth, with thoughtfully designed spaces near shopping and recreation. The neighborhood includes a variety of shared amenities, from a regional recreation center and public parks to the Green Valley Ranch Golf Club. At its core, the Town Center brings together shopping, dining, and essential services. Just outside the neighborhood, the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge offers thousands of acres of protected prairie, where residents can experience open space and native wildlife close to home.

 

8. Lakewood

Just west of Denver, Lakewood is technically a separate city but feels closely connected to the metro area. It’s a popular choice for renters who want easy access to both downtown and the mountains. Known for its abundance of parks, retail centers, and accessibly priced apartments, Lakewood offers a balanced suburban lifestyle with strong ties to city conveniences. Located 8 to 10 miles from central Denver, most commutes take 15 to 25 minutes by car. The RTD W Line also serves the area, offering a reliable light rail option into the heart of the city.

In addition to the W Line light rail, Lakewood has several RTD bus lines running through it. Many Lakewood residents use a park-and-ride approach: drive or bike to a nearby light rail station, then train into the city. Lakewood offers plenty of apartments and townhomes, often at a lower cost than comparable apartments in Denver proper. Large apartment communities are common here, including Ridgemoor Apartment Homes, The Pines Apartments, and Timberleaf Apartments. Many Lakewood apartments are garden-style or mid-rise communities with amenities like pools and gyms.

Lakewood also appeals to renters seeking a strong sense of community and access to amenities. Lakewood High School, one of the highest-performing public high schools in the metro area, is located nearby and is especially well-known for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program. For recreation and retail, residents enjoy hubs like Belmar and Colorado Mills Mall, along with access to vast green spaces like Bear Creek Lake Park and William F. Hayden Park on Green Mountain. Culturally, the 40 West Arts District and Lakewood Cultural Center offer events and performances year-round, while local breweries like Great Frontier and Green Mountain Beer Company continue to shape the area's neighborhood vibe.

 

9. Washington Park

Washington Park, often called “Wash Park,” is one of Denver’s most well-known and loved neighborhoods. Just a few miles south of downtown, it offers a classic residential feel anchored by its namesake park — a 155-acre green space with two lakes, a boathouse, gardens, and a 2.6-mile loop popular with runners and cyclists. The park itself is a destination, but the surrounding neighborhood draws renters who want access to nature without leaving the city behind.

The area includes a variety of apartments, from older low-rise buildings to newer, boutique-style communities, particularly in the western section near Speer Boulevard and along South Broadway. While much of the neighborhood is zoned for single-family homes, adjacent areas like Washington Park West and parts of Platt Park offer more rental density. Transit is also a plus. The Louisiana–Pearl and Alameda light rail stations sit on the neighborhood’s west and north sides, connecting riders to downtown, the Tech Center, and beyond. RTD bus routes, including the 11, 12, and 52, run along main thoroughfares such as Downing, Louisiana, and Mississippi, giving renters multiple options for commuting.

Washington Park has a strong local identity. South Gaylord Street and Old South Pearl are nearby districts known for cafés, restaurants, and small businesses, with farmers markets and seasonal events that bring the community together. Additionally, South High School, a well-known public high school with academic and cultural programs, is located at the eastern edge of the park and serves as a community hub. The University of Denver is also just a few minutes south of the neighborhood, making Wash Park a convenient choice for students, faculty, and staff. With its location, greenery, and connectivity, Washington Park remains one of the most sought-after areas for Denver renters.

 

10. Downtown Denver/LoDo

Downtown Denver, particularly the Lower Downtown area known as LoDo, offers a true urban living experience rooted in historic character. Renovated warehouses sit alongside modern high-rises, blending old and new architecture in one of the city’s most recognizable neighborhoods. Union Station anchors the district as both a functional transit hub and a public space with restaurants, cafés, and shops. The nearby 16th Street Mall and Larimer Square add to the appeal with dining, boutiques, and nightlife.

Renting downtown means being close to restaurants, entertainment venues, and cultural institutions like the Denver Art Museum and the Denver Performing Arts Complex. The area also borders the Auraria Campus, home to Metropolitan State University of Denver, making LoDo a practical option for students, faculty, and staff seeking proximity to school and city life. Union Station connects to multiple light rail lines, including the A Line to the airport, the C, E, and W Lines to the Tech Center and western suburbs, and the Flatiron Flyer Bus Rapid Transit to Boulder. RTD local routes and free services like the 16th Street MallRide make it easy to navigate the area without a car.

LoDo apartment options include converted historic warehouses with exposed brick and beams, as well as sleek new high-rises with rooftop pools and fitness centers. Union Station serves as both a transit hub and a gathering place, with its great hall functioning as a lounge surrounded by restaurants and bars. Beyond dining and shopping, downtown Denver offers plenty of recreational options. Commons Park provides green space along the South Platte River, connecting to miles of riverside trails. Coors Field (home of the Colorado Rockies) sits at the northeast edge of LoDo, while Ball Arena hosts the Nuggets, Avalanche, and major concerts just across the river.

 

Neighborhoods Comparison

To wrap up, here's a quick comparison of these 10 renter-friendly neighborhoods on key factors that matter to renters:

Finding Your Denver Neighborhood

Choosing where to live in Denver isn’t just about location. It’s about how a neighborhood fits into your everyday rhythm. That might mean a short ride to work, being near a favorite trail, or simply knowing your go-to coffee shop is around the corner. While each area is different, the neighborhoods that stand out tend to offer a strong mix of accessibility, community, and livability.

Denver is constantly evolving, and so are the choices for renters. As you narrow things down, look beyond just the basics like budget or commute. Pay attention to how a place feels on a regular day, what it's like in the morning, after work, or on a quiet weekend. The right neighborhood isn't always the flashiest, but when it aligns with your pace, priorities, and lifestyle, it just makes sense.

If you're looking for a place to rent, consider exploring Fairfield apartments throughout Denver. From urban lofts to suburban garden-style communities, Denver offers rental options to match any lifestyle preference. With thoughtful amenities and convenient locations, you can enjoy all that the Mile High City has to offer while feeling right at home. Welcome to Denver – a city that combines urban sophistication, outdoor adventure, and neighborhood charm in perfect balance.