JROC Properties

top safe denver neighborhoods

Top 7 Safe Denver Neighborhoods To Move Your Family

Table of Contents

When considering a move to Denver, many families ask, “Is Denver safe?” While every major city has its challenges, many neighborhoods in Denver offer impressive safety records and family-friendly atmospheres. 

Denver features diverse neighborhoods, from the tree-lined streets of Washington Park to the planned community of Central Park. The city has worked hard to improve safety, resulting in significant crime rate reductions over the past decade.

Safety in Denver isn’t just about low crime statistics; it also includes well-maintained public spaces, active community engagement, quality schools, and family amenities. Many residential areas boast safety ratings above the national average, making them excellent choices for families.

As we explore Denver’s top seven safe neighborhoods, remember that safety is just one factor. Each area offers unique attributes that make them not only secure but also enjoyable places to live. Join Rocco and JROC Properties to find the perfect spot for your family in the Mile High City!

criteria for selection in safe denver neighborhoods

Criteria for Selection

When identifying the safest neighborhoods in Denver, Colorado, I’ve used a comprehensive set of criteria to ensure that these areas are not just statistically safe but also provide an excellent quality of life for families. Let’s break down the key factors that went into selecting these safe areas in Denver, Colorado.

Crime statistics and safety records

The foundation of any safe neighborhood is its crime statistics and safety records. While it’s important to note that Denver has a crime rate of 74 per 1,000 residents, one of the highest in the U.S., the neighborhoods on this list significantly outperform the city average.

When analyzing crime data, we looked at both violent and property crime rates. The chance of being a victim of violent crime in Denver is 1 in 95, and the chance of being a victim of property crime is 1 in 16. However, the safest neighborhoods in Denver have much lower rates, often falling well below these citywide averages.

I’ve also considered trends over time, looking for areas that have shown consistent improvement or maintained low crime rates over several years. This helps ensure that the safety of these neighborhoods is not just a temporary phenomenon but a stable characteristic.

Quality of schools

Education is a top priority for families, and the quality of local schools plays a crucial role in neighborhood selection. The safest neighborhoods Denver has to offer often correlate with areas that have highly rated public and private schools.

In evaluating school quality, we’ve looked at factors such as:

  • Standardized test scores
  • Graduation rates
  • Teacher-to-student ratios
  • Availability of advanced placement and extracurricular programs
  • Parent and student reviews

Neighborhoods with schools that consistently perform above the state and national averages have been given priority in this selection.

Family-friendly amenities (parks, community centers)

A truly safe and livable neighborhood offers more than just low crime rates – it provides amenities that enhance family life. The safest neighborhoods in Denver, Colorado, typically feature an abundance of family-friendly facilities and activities.

Some key amenities I’ve considered include:

  • Well-maintained public parks and green spaces
  • Community centers with programs for all ages
  • Public libraries
  • Sports facilities and recreation areas
  • Family-oriented events and festivals

These amenities not only provide entertainment and enrichment opportunities but also foster a sense of community. Neighborhoods with active community engagement tend to be safer, as residents look out for one another and take pride in their shared spaces.

By considering these three main criteria – crime statistics, school quality, and family-friendly amenities – I’ve identified neighborhoods that offer a well-rounded, safe environment for families. While no neighborhood is perfect, and it’s always advisable to check the most recent Denver crime map 2024 before making a decision, the areas we’ll explore next represent some of the best options for families looking to settle in Denver’s safer enclaves.

7 safest neighborhoods in denver

Profiles of the Top 7 Safest Neighborhoods in Denver

When it comes to the best neighborhoods Denver has to offer, safety is a top priority for many families. In this Denver neighborhood guide, we’ll explore seven of the top neighborhoods in Denver that combine safety with family-friendly amenities and quality living. These nice neighborhoods are some of the most desirable places to live in Denver, Colorado.

Washington Park

Washington Park, affectionately known as “Wash Park” to locals, is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Denver. Its centerpiece is the sprawling 155-acre park that gives the area its name, offering residents a perfect blend of urban living and natural beauty.

Washington Park has a violent crime rate of 314 and a property crime rate of 4,175 per 100,000 people, with 22% less crime than the city of Denver overall. This statistic underscores why it’s considered one of the safest areas in the city.

The neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful historic homes, and active community. Families appreciate the excellent schools in the area, including the highly-rated Steele Elementary. The park itself features two lakes, flower gardens, and numerous recreational facilities, making it a hub for outdoor activities and community events.

Hilltop

Hilltop lives up to its name. Its elevated location offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and downtown Denver. This upscale neighborhood is characterized by a mix of stately historic homes and modern mansions.

Safety is a hallmark of Hilltop, with crime rates significantly lower than the Denver average. The neighborhood’s quiet streets and a strong sense of community contribute to its family-friendly atmosphere.

Cranmer Park, with its sundial and mountain views, is a local favorite for picnics and sunset watching. The area is also home to several top-rated schools, including Steck Elementary and Hill Campus of Arts and Sciences, making it an excellent choice for families with school-age children.

Cherry Creek

Cherry Creek is synonymous with upscale living in Denver. This neighborhood combines residential charm with a vibrant shopping and dining district, offering residents the best of both worlds.

While specific crime statistics for Cherry Creek aren’t readily available, it’s widely regarded as one of the safest areas in Denver. The neighborhood’s affluence and well-maintained public spaces contribute to its overall safety.

Families in Cherry Creek enjoy access to the Cherry Creek Trail, perfect for biking and walking, and the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, one of Denver’s premier retail destinations. The area is served by highly rated schools, including Cherry Creek High School, which is consistently ranked among the best in Colorado.

Stapleton (Central Park)

Stapleton, recently renamed Central Park, is a master-planned community that has quickly become one of the top neighborhoods in Denver. Built on the site of the former Stapleton International Airport, this neighborhood offers modern living with a focus on sustainability and community.

The area boasts lower crime rates compared to many other parts of Denver, thanks in part to its thoughtful urban planning and strong community engagement. Central Park’s numerous pocket parks, community centers, and events foster a safe, family-friendly environment.

Education is a strong point here, with several highly-rated schools within the neighborhood. The abundance of green spaces, including the 80-acre Central Park, provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and family activities.

Lowry

Lowry, another redeveloped neighborhood on the site of a former Air Force base, has blossomed into one of the neighborhoods Denver residents love. It offers a mix of housing options, from apartments to single-family homes, catering to a diverse population.

Lowry’s strong community feel and well-designed urban spaces bolster its safety. The neighborhood features wide, pedestrian-friendly streets and numerous parks, encouraging outdoor activity and neighborly interaction.

Families in Lowry appreciate the quality schools, including the Denver School of Science and Technology. The area also boasts several cultural attractions, such as the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, adding educational value to the neighborhood.

Belcaro

Belcaro is a hidden gem among the places to live in Denver. This small, affluent neighborhood is known for its large lots, beautiful homes, and peaceful atmosphere.

The neighborhood of Belcaro has a violent crime rate 140% lower than the national average, with an assault rate of 49.3 per 100,000 residents and no murders reported. These impressive statistics make Belcaro one of the safest neighborhoods in Denver.

While Belcaro is primarily residential, its proximity to Cherry Creek and Washington Park means residents have easy access to shopping, dining, and recreational activities. The neighborhood’s tranquil streets and low crime rates make it an ideal choice for families seeking a safe, quiet environment.

Sloan’s Lake

Sloan’s Lake rounds out our list of the best neighborhoods Denver has to offer for families prioritizing safety. This up-and-coming neighborhood is centered around the largest lake in Denver, offering a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty.

While specific crime statistics for Sloan’s Lake aren’t readily available, the area has seen significant improvements in safety and livability in recent years. The neighborhood’s ongoing development and increasing popularity have contributed to a stronger sense of community and enhanced safety measures.

The neighborhood’s crown jewel is Sloan’s Lake Park, a 177-acre oasis featuring a lake, walking trails, and stunning mountain views. Families enjoy the park’s amenities, including playgrounds, sports fields, and water activities. The area is also experiencing a boom in new restaurants and shops, adding to its appeal as a family-friendly neighborhood.

Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique blend of safety, amenities, and community spirit, making them excellent choices for families looking to make Denver their home. As always, it’s recommended to visit these areas in person and conduct further research to find the perfect fit for your family’s needs and preferences.

sell your home in colorado with rocco

Conclusion

Denver offers a variety of safe, family-friendly neighborhoods, including Washington Park, Hilltop, Cherry Creek, Central Park (formerly Stapleton), Lowry, Belcaro, and Sloan’s Lake. These areas are known for their low crime rates, strong community ties, excellent schools, and family-oriented amenities. Each neighborhood has its unique charm, from the expansive parks of Washington Park to the upscale living in Cherry Creek.

While these neighborhoods are among the safest, it’s essential to stay informed about local safety trends and take standard precautions. When considering a move, visit these areas, explore local parks and schools, and talk to residents to get a feel for the community. 

Denver’s commitment to safety and quality of life is evident in these neighborhoods, making them great places to call home. Ultimately, the best neighborhood is one that ensures your family’s safety and offers a thriving environment, with Denver’s stunning beauty and vibrant culture as an added bonus.

If you’re ready to find your perfect home in one of these fantastic neighborhoods, JROC Properties is here to help! Contact us today to learn more about available listings and to schedule a personalized tour of your future community. Your dream home in Denver awaits!






    Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive real estate updates, local events, and tips to make the most of living in Colorado!