Welcome to Aurora, CO
Aurora, Colorado’s third-largest city, offers an unexpected blend of urban convenience and outdoor adventure just minutes from Denver. With its diverse neighborhoods, thriving international food scene, and proximity to both mountain recreation and metropolitan amenities, Aurora has quietly become one of Colorado’s most appealing destinations for families and young professionals seeking more space and value without sacrificing city access.
📍 Aurora, CO at a Glance
- Population: 386,261
- Location: 9 miles east of downtown Denver, bordering Denver International Airport
- Incorporated: 1891
- Known For: Cultural diversity, proximity to DIA, extensive medical facilities
🔗 Dive Deeper into Aurora
💸 Cost & Budget
🏘️ Housing & Lifestyle
🚍 Utilities & Transportation
🏙️ City Comparisons
🎯 Special Content
🔍 In-Depth Relocation Overview
🗳️ Politics & Civic Life
Aurora leans slightly Democratic, reflecting Colorado’s purple-state status. The city council operates under a council-manager system with 10 ward representatives and an at-large mayor. Civic engagement is strong, with active neighborhood associations and community groups representing Aurora’s diverse population, including significant Latino, African American, and Asian communities.
🚓 Crime & Safety
Crime rates vary significantly by neighborhood, with northwest Aurora generally experiencing lower crime rates than areas along Colfax Avenue. The Aurora Police Department has implemented community policing initiatives and neighborhood watch programs. Areas near the Anschutz Medical Campus and newer developments in southeast Aurora tend to have lower crime statistics.
🍽️ Dining & Entertainment
Aurora’s dining scene reflects its international diversity. Havana Street hosts authentic Ethiopian restaurants like Konjo Ethiopian Restaurant and Lucy Ethiopian Restaurant. The H Mart anchors a Korean district with spots like Seoul BBQ and Tofu House. For entertainment, catch a show at the Aurora Fox Arts Center or enjoy craft beer at Dry Dock Brewing’s production facility. Stanley Marketplace offers a curated collection of local eateries and shops in a renovated aviation factory.
🏛️ Local Government
Aurora operates under a council-manager form of government with Mayor Mike Coffman leading the city council. City services are well-regarded, with responsive utilities and comprehensive snow removal. The city maintains its own water department and offers various resident programs through Aurora Parks, Recreation & Open Space.
🚍 Transportation
The RTD A Line connects Aurora to downtown Denver and DIA, making commutes convenient. Major highways including I-70, I-225, and E-470 provide easy access throughout the metro area. While Aurora is primarily car-dependent, the city has been expanding bike lanes and pedestrian infrastructure, particularly around light rail stations.
🏘️ Housing & Real Estate
Aurora offers more affordable housing than Denver, with median home prices around $475,000. Options range from mid-century ranch homes in established neighborhoods to new construction in Southshore and Tallyn’s Reach. The rental market is robust, with average two-bedroom apartments renting for $1,600-$1,900 monthly.
🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life
Cherry Creek State Park provides 4,000 acres of outdoor recreation including swimming, boating, and camping. The city maintains over 100 parks and 5,000 acres of open space. Aurora Reservoir offers paddleboarding and fishing, while the High Line Canal Trail provides 71 miles of walking and biking paths.
💼 Job Market
Major employers include the Anschutz Medical Campus (30,000+ employees), Buckley Air Force Base, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and Amazon fulfillment centers. The median household income is $65,100. Healthcare, aerospace, and logistics dominate the job market, with growing opportunities in bioscience and renewable energy sectors.
🧑🏫 Education
Aurora Public Schools serves most of the city with several high-performing options like Rangeview High School’s IB program. Cherry Creek Schools covers southern Aurora with consistently high ratings. Private options include Regis Jesuit High School and Denver Waldorf School. The Community College of Aurora and University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus provide higher education opportunities.
🌞 Climate & Weather
Aurora enjoys 300+ days of sunshine annually with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and dry (highs in the 80s-90s), while winters are mild compared to other Colorado cities (average highs in the 40s). Snow typically melts quickly due to abundant sunshine. Spring can bring occasional severe weather including hail.
💬 Community Sentiment
Residents appreciate Aurora’s diversity, relative affordability, and family-friendly atmosphere. Common praises include the international food options, access to outdoor recreation, and strong sense of community in many neighborhoods. Complaints often center on traffic congestion, particularly along I-225, and the need for more walkable neighborhood centers.
✨ Why People Are Moving to Aurora
Aurora attracts newcomers seeking Colorado’s outdoor lifestyle without Denver’s premium prices. The city’s cultural diversity creates a welcoming environment for international residents and those craving authentic global cuisine. With excellent healthcare facilities, improving schools, and easy access to both urban amenities and mountain adventures, Aurora offers a practical yet vibrant option for families and professionals ready to embrace Colorado living on their own terms.