Lakewood is the fifth largest city in Denver and one of the most popular suburbs to call home.
This beautiful suburb has some of the best views of the Rocky Mountain foothills and is packed with parks, lakes, greenbelts, and golf courses. But the scenery is just one reason why so many families want to call this city home.
In this neighborhood guide, we’ll tell you everything there is to know about Lakewood, Denver, Colorado, and help you figure out if this is the right neighborhood for you.
Looking for the best neighborhoods in Denver? Check out our next area guide on Cherry Creek – the best neighborhood for retail lovers.
A short history
The name Lakewood comes from a subdivision established by Williams Loveland in 1889. Back then, Lakewood residents were ranchers who raised turkey and operated dairies. But over the years, the open farmland gave way to neighborhoods, and by 196, there were over 90,000 residents.
After growing fears of annexation, boundaries for a new city were created in the basement of James Jeff Richey, chairman of the Citizens for Incorporation. Lakewood became a progressive, visionary city and steadily grew.
Today, Lakewood covers over 44 square miles and has a population of over 155,000. It’s the third largest city in Denver, and a quarter of the land is dedicated to parks and open space.
Top things to do
If you love the outdoors, you’ll have plenty to do in the Lakewood area. There are 100 different parks to choose from, plenty of greenbelts and nature trails, all overlooked by the imposing Green Mountains.
Bear Creek Lake Park
Bear Creek Lake Park has plenty to do and is a favorite spot for families. The park has 15 miles of trails, an archery range, equestrian trails, and a stunning lake for water sports.
Everitt Farms
Everitt Farms covers 25 acres of stainable farmland and offers some of the best landscapes in Lakewood. It’s home to a corn maze, pumpkin patch, Christmas tree lot, and fresh farmers’ market.
Lakewood Cultural Center
If you want to learn more about Lakewood, Denver, Colorado, the Heritage Center is the best place to visit. Situated in Belmar Park, there are ten buildings of historical importance and over 30,000 items in the center’s collection.
Real estate
The average price of a home in Lakewood, Denver, is $620,585, which is an 8% rise over the previous year. Lakewood has an eclectic mix of house styles, including ranches, condos, townhouses, and cabins.
If you’re looking to rent, the average rent for an apartment in Lakewood is $1,891, with the average apartment being 878 sq. ft. The most areas to rent in Lakewood are Greenbriar and Cloverdale, both costing around $1,500, on average.
Favorite places
It’s safe to say that you’ll never get bored living in Lakewood. Here are a few of our favorite things to do in this vibrant city.
For green space: William F. Hayden Green Mountain Park
William F. Hayden Green Mountain Park has over 2,400 acres of green space to explore. It’s the second largest park in Lakewood, with some challenging trails that take you right up to the summit of Green Mountain. If you love hiking, this will be your favorite spot.
For retail therapy: Colorado Mills
This large shopping mall has over a million square feet of retail therapy right in the heart of Lakewood. You’ll find over 135 stores, cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
For art and culture: Valkarie Gallery and Studio
Valkarie Gallery opened in 2013 and offers a diverse range of art exhibits to the public. With a family-friendly atmosphere, they showcase work by local artists and hold regular shows and exhibitions that are well worth visiting.
For a bite to eat: 240 Union
One of our favorite restaurants in Lakewood is 240 Union. This grill has delicious American cuisine and sits right in the heart of Lakewood. The wood-fired pizzas are a must-try, as well as the specialty pasta and fresh seafood.
Cost of Living & Employment
The average cost of living in Lakewood is $1965, which ranks 12th out of the 28 cities in Colorado. The median after-tax salary is $3772, which is well above the national average.
If you’re looking for a commuter-friendly suburb, Lakewood is a great option. It’s close to Denver City Center and Downtown Denver and has ten light rail stations for traveling to Golden and Denver.
Is Lakewood, CO, right for you?
If you’re looking for a new city to call home, there are some great options in Colorado. Lakewood is especially ideal for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants plenty of green space. Whether you’re relocating from nearby or out of state, experienced Lakewood movers and a reliable moving company in Denver can make your transition smooth and stress-free.
It’s a sought-after neighborhood in the United States, and houses don’t stay on the market for long. If you’re seriously interested in Lakewood, it’s best to act quickly—with professional movers by your side, you’ll be ready to settle in without delay.
Are you getting ready to move? Here’s a quick guide on how to choose the right moving company to make it a stress-free process.
