Living in Luxury: The Best Neighborhoods in Denver
A view of the downtown Denver skyline.
Denver has come a long way since its 19th-century origins as a sleepy cow town. Consistently ranked one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States, the Mile High City has attracted droves of young professionals in recent years. In fact, Denver’s population has increased by nearly 22 percent in the past two decades—a drastic uptick that has transformed Colorado’s capital into a bustling city that’s home to outdoor enthusiasts, affluent business owners, tech-industry giants, and a rich culture, entertainment, and dining scene.
When it comes to luxury living, Denver offers a myriad of upscale neighborhoods that cater to refined tastes and broad budgets (with the median home price clocking in at $585,000 in April 2023 , Denver County homes are about 38% more expensive than the national average). From stunning architecture to breathtaking mountain views, Denver's luxury neighborhoods embody elegance, exclusivity, and a high standard of living. Whether you’re planning to move to Denver for the first time or you’re a longtime resident interested in exploring new real estate options, look to these five premier neighborhoods that offer exceptional amenities, natural beauty, and beautiful single-family homes in a range of styles.
Cherry Creek boasts an abundance of dining, shopping, and luxury living options.
Cherry Creek
2023 average sales price: $1.8 million; $3.3 million for single-family homes
Fast facts:
Cherry Creek’s 2023 home prices are up 30.9% year-over-year
On average, homes in Cherry Creek sell after 12 days on market
Cherry Creek’s walkability score is 81 out of 100
Situated just five minutes southeast of downtown Denver, Cherry Creek is one of the most sought-after luxury neighborhoods in the city. Renowned for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants and cocktail bars, Cherry Creek is a haven for those who appreciate a vibrant urban lifestyle. The area boasts lavish single-family homes and condos, tree-lined streets, and a top-rated public school district. Cherry Creek Shopping Center is home to high-end fashion brands including Burberry, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co., while Cherry Creek North offers a slew of chic home goods shops. For outdoor enthusiasts, Cherry Creek Trail provides a scenic pathway for walking, jogging, or biking. Cherry Creek is also a great area for seeing some of Denver’s finest architecture styles, from Colonial Revival to modern-contemporary.
Smith Lake in Washington Park is one of Denver’s main hubs for beautiful views and outdoor recreation.
2. Washington Park
2023 median sales price: $1.5 million; $1.8 million for single-family homes
Fast facts:
Washington Park’s 2023 home prices are up 0.7% year-over-year
On average, homes in Washington Park sell after 13 days on market
Washington Park’s walkability score is 71 out of 100
Nestled around the sprawling, 165-acre Washington Park—or Wash Park, as the locals call it—this neighborhood offers a winning combination of wide-open outdoor spaces and beautiful real estate. Living in Wash Park likely means you don’t have an expansive lot, but residents rely on the park itself—which includes two lakes, bike paths, verdant gardens, and recreational facilities—as a backyard oasis. The picturesque streets feature exquisite historic homes, elegant townhouses, and upscale apartments. And just a quick jaunt from Washington Park are Old South Gaylord and South Pearl streets, which both brim with shops, restaurants, and bars—many of which are housed inside quaint, 19th-century buildings.
This stunning, custom-built home in the Cory-Merrill neighborhood was recently sold by Iron Works Realty.
3. Cory-Merrill
2023 median sales price: $914,500; $914,500 for single-family homes
Fast facts:
Cory Merrill’s 2023 home prices are down 25.2% year-over-year
On average, homes in Cory Merrill sell after 13 days on market
Cory Merrill’s walkability score is 63 out of 100
Just southeast of downtown Denver, the Cory-Merrill neighborhood offers a quiet, suburban-like setting near the University of Denver, Washington Park, the I-25 corridor, Bonnie Brae, and many shops, restaurants, and bars. The neighborhood is popular among families, as it’s home to one of Denver’s best elementary schools, Cory Elementary. Cory-Merrill homes range from modern new builds to historic bungalows, and the neighborhood provides a tight-knit community feel.
Cherry Hills Village offers an abundance of quiet outdoor space.
4. Cherry Hills Village
2023 median sales price: $4.2 million; $4.2 million for single-family homes
Fast facts:
Cherry Hills’ 2023 home prices are up 38.7% year over year
On average, homes in Cherry Hills sell after 37 days on market
Cherry Hills’ walkability score is 12 out of 100
Cherry Hills Village, or Cherry Hills, is one of, if not the most, lavish neighborhoods in the greater Denver area. The southern suburb’s pastoral beauty has attracted A-list residents (including former Denver Broncos players and coaches) who want to escape the bustle of the city. Massive homes (think 9,000-, 10,000-, even 14,000-square-foot houses) on sprawling lots compose the gated community. While the neighborhood offers ample outdoor recreation facilities including John Meade Park and the High Line Canal, it is not a highly trafficked or commercial area. Rather, the allure of Cherry Hills comes from its tranquil, remote atmosphere for Denver’s ultra-wealthy residents.
A sundial in Hilltop’s Cranmer Park.
5. Hilltop
2023 median sales price: $1.6 million; $1.6 million for single-family homes
Fast facts:
Hilltop’s 2023 home prices are up 4% year over year
On average, homes in Hilltop sell after 11 days on the market
Hilltop’s walkability score is 54 out of 100
Perched on a hill in east-central Denver, Hilltop offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and the downtown skyline. Known for its spacious lots and opulent mansions, this neighborhood is as charming as it is exclusive. Hilltop is home to Cranmer Park, a popular outdoor gathering space with panoramic views and a sundial plaza. With proximity to excellent schools, high-end shopping centers, and the Denver Country Club, Hilltop appeals to both families and individuals seeking a luxurious lifestyle.
Denver Country Club is home to world-class recreation and dining facilities.
6. Country Club
2023 median sales price: $1.9 million; $1.9 million for single-family homes
Fast facts:
Country Club’s 2023 home prices are down 2.6% year over year
On average, homes in Country Club sell after 22 days on the market
Country Club’s walkability score is 79 out of 100
For those seeking a prestigious neighborhood, Denver's Country Club delivers in every way. Developed in the early 20th century, this historic sector of Denver features stately mansions, magnificent estates, and manicured gardens. Most importantly, the Country Club neighborhood offers convenient access to Denver Country Club, one of the city’s greatest institutions. Established in 1887, Denver Country Club is the oldest country club west of the Mississippi and provides members with world-class golfing, swimming, recreation, and dining facilities. Plus, some of the city’s most renowned architects designed Denver Squares and Mediterranean-style homes in the neighborhood, and the centrally located area offers easy access to Cherry Creek, Cheesman Park, and the Denver Botanic Gardens.
Established in 1890, the Chamberlin Observatory in Observatory Park is one of the area’s many attractions.
7. Observatory Park
2023 median sales price: $1.6 million
Fast facts:
On average, homes in Observatory Park homes sell after 25 days on the market
Observatory Park’s walkability score is 67 out of 100
A luxury neighborhood adjacent to a college campus might seem incongruous, but Observatory Park’s proximity to the University of Denver is part of its charm. DU’s beautiful historic buildings—including the campus’ best-known landmark, Chamberlin Observatory, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places—date back to the late 19th century. The neighborhood’s namesake park provides residents with access to nearly 7 acres of open space, walking paths, and a playground. Mature trees line the picturesque residential streets, and home styles range from modern farmhouse to traditional Georgian. Observatory Park residents also enjoy its convenient location near I-25 and University Boulevard, which provides quick access to downtown Denver and nearby shopping and dining districts.
Ready to make a move? Iron Works Realty can help.
If your real estate goals include buying property in one of Denver’s premier neighborhoods, we’re here to help. Iron Works Realty leverages over 16 years of experience assisting Colorado buyers with closing on their dream homes. So whether you prefer the vibrant atmosphere of Cherry Creek, the tranquility of Washington Park, or the exclusivity of Country Club, our team offers valuable resources to help you navigate Denver’s competitive market and land a luxury listing.
