If you’re thinking about moving to Lakewood, CO, you’re not alone.
This beautiful city in Jefferson County has become one of the most popular relocation destinations in the Denver metro area.
With scenic mountain views, thriving neighborhoods, excellent schools, and plenty of job opportunities, it’s no wonder so many people are drawn to Lakewood, Colorado.
This guide covers everything: housing costs, schools, Lakewood neighborhoods, lifestyle, transportation, and tips for finding the right movers.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect when living in Lakewood.
Why Move to Lakewood, Colorado?
Lakewood offers a unique mix of suburban calm and urban excitement.
Nestled in Jefferson County, it’s part of the Front Range Urban Corridor and has quick access to downtown Denver while still offering quiet neighborhoods and open spaces.
For families, Lakewood living means excellent schools, parks, and safe communities.
For young professionals, it provides proximity to jobs, nightlife, and outdoor adventure. Retirees also love the slower pace and access to Lakewood parks.
Lakewood Population and Demographics
The Lakewood population is now over 156,000, making it one of the largest suburbs in the Denver metro.
The city has grown steadily over the past decade thanks to new housing and strong business growth.
There’s also increasing diversity, with a notable foreign-born population and a growing African American community adding to Lakewood’s vibrant culture.
Cost of Living in Lakewood
The Lakewood cost of living is about 10% higher than the national average.
Housing is the biggest expense, followed by groceries and utilities.
- Median household income: ~$71,000 (slightly lower than Denver but above the U.S. average).
- Typical cost for a family of four: $127,000 annually.
- Median price for a home: ~$565,000.
- Rent for a 1-bedroom: ~$1,600; average family rental: ~$1,925.
Compared to downtown Denver, Lakewood is still more affordable, especially for homebuyers.
Housing Market & Median Home Value
The median home value in Lakewood, CO, ranges from $565,000 to $600,000.
Demand remains high as people relocate from Denver in search of more space.
About 60% of homes are owner-occupied, reflecting the city’s stable communities.
If you’re moving to Lakewood, you’ll find a mix of older ranch-style homes, modern condos, and brand-new developments.
For those considering moving to a newly built home in Denver, this guide is helpful: Moving to a Newly Built Home.
Best Lakewood Neighborhoods
Each Lakewood neighborhood has its charm:
- Belmar Park: The urban center with shopping, art, and dining.
- Green Mountain: A favorite for outdoor lovers with hiking and biking trails.
- Kendrick Lake: Lakeside living and great for community events.
- Dakota Ridge: Known for scenic beauty and equestrian trails.
- West Pleasant View & East Pleasant View: Smaller, historic communities near Colorado State Highway.
- Wheat Ridge: A nearby option with affordable housing.
When considering the best neighborhoods, factor in commute, school zones, and lifestyle preferences.
Education: Public and Private Schools
Lakewood residents have excellent education options.
The Jefferson County R-1 district runs over 160 public schools, serving around 81,000 students.
Highlights include:
- Dennison Elementary School: Among the top-ranked in Colorado.
- Lakewood High School, Bear Creek High, and Green Mountain High.
- Private schools: Colorado Christian Academy and other independent institutions.
- Higher education: Colorado Christian University and Red Rocks Community College.
Strong school options make living in Lakewood, Colorado, attractive for families.
Jobs and Business Growth
Lakewood is part of the Denver Metro West region, known for aerospace and advanced manufacturing.
Job opportunities are diverse, ranging from health care and education to IT and financial services.
- Major employers: FirstBank, Integer Group, Einstein Bros. Bagels.
- Median household income: ~$71,000.
- Employment rate: 97.3% in Jefferson County.
Business growth continues to attract young professionals, especially in the tech and aerospace industries.
Lifestyle and City Life
City life in Lakewood blends shopping, arts, and outdoor fun.
The Belmar district features boutiques, galleries, and live music venues.
Local breweries and happy hour spots make it easy to unwind.
For families, community events like holiday festivals and cultural fairs bring neighbors together.
For food lovers, Lakewood restaurants, food trucks, and farmers markets showcase the city’s diversity.
This balance of city life and suburban comfort is a major reason people choose Lakewood living.
Outdoor Recreation in Lakewood
Nature is central to Lakewood living. Popular spots include:
- Lakewood parks like Kendrick Lake and Belmar Park.
- William F. Hayden Park: 2,400 acres of trails and wildlife.
- Access to the South Platte River for fishing and kayaking.
- Hiking and biking in the nearby Rocky Mountains.
- Horseback riding on scenic equestrian trails.
No matter the season, outdoor activities are abundant.
Lakewood Weather and Climate
The Lakewood weather is sunny most of the year, with warm summers and snowy winters.
Skiers love its proximity to mountain resorts, while hikers enjoy year-round access to trails.
The semi-arid climate means plenty of sunshine, so outdoor recreation rarely has to stop.
Transportation and Commute
Moving to Lakewood, CO, means easy access to the rest of the metro.
Many residents commute to Downtown Denver via the RTD light rail, a quick 30-minute ride.
Highways connect easily to Boulder, Golden, and beyond.
The Denver International Airport is also nearby for frequent travelers.
Community Events and Culture
Lakewood has a thriving cultural calendar.
Community events include concerts at the Lakewood Cultural Center, outdoor live music, and seasonal farmers markets.
Food trucks and art festivals add flavor to the city, while neighborhoods host block parties and parades that make Lakewood residents feel connected.
Dining in Lakewood
Foodies will love Lakewood restaurants, from fine dining to casual eateries.
The city boasts some of the best restaurants in the Denver metro, offering American, Mexican, Italian, and international cuisines.
Safety and Crime Rate
The crime rate in Lakewood is moderate compared to the national average, but many of the best neighborhoods, like Green Mountain and Kendrick Lake, are considered safe.
Families often choose areas near schools and parks for peace of mind.
Tips for Hiring Movers
Relocating requires planning.
Here are tips for choosing the right movers:
- Watch out for hidden costs of moving, like stair fees and fuel surcharges. (hidden costs of moving)
- For corporate moves, rely on professional Denver office movers.
- Long-distance? Check long distance moving to Lakewood CO.
- For affordability, read affordable moving companies near me.
Packing Services for Stress-Free Moves
Don’t want to pack yourself? Consider:
Hiring pros saves time, protects valuables, and prevents injuries.
Our local moving company in Denver even offers full packing/unpacking options.
Should You Hire Movers?
Still deciding? Here are the pros and cons of hiring Denver movers.
If you value convenience, check out local Denver movers.
For business relocations, here’s why hiring commercial movers saves time and money.
Visit Lakewood Before You Move
It’s wise to visit Lakewood first.
Explore Lakewood neighborhoods, dine at Lakewood restaurants, and stroll through Belmar Park or Kendrick Lake.
This helps you get a feel for the community before making the move permanent.
FAQs About Moving to Lakewood, CO
Is Lakewood, CO affluent?
Some areas like Green Mountain and Kendrick Lake are affluent, but overall, it’s more middle-class compared to Boulder or Cherry Creek.
How expensive is it to live in Lakewood?
The cost of living is higher than the national average, but still lower than Denver.
What’s the commute like to Denver?
10-30 minutes by car or light rail.
Are schools in Lakewood good?
Yes. Top schools like Dennison Elementary School make it attractive for families.
What outdoor activities are nearby?
Outdoor activities include hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing in the Rocky Mountains.
Final Thoughts
If you’re moving to Lakewood, CO, you’ll discover a city that balances suburban calm with urban convenience.
From affordable housing compared to Denver to outstanding schools and abundant outdoor recreation, Lakewood living offers something for everyone.
For a smooth relocation, trust Denver Moving Companies for expert help with packing, transport, and settling in.