Thinking About Moving to Commerce City, CO

📍 Commerce City, CO at a Glance

• Population: 62,418
• Location: 7 miles northeast of downtown Denver, bordered by the South Platte River
• Incorporated: 1952
• Known For: Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, proximity to Denver International Airport, industrial heritage

🗳️ Politics & Civic Life

Commerce City leans Democratic in recent elections, reflecting the broader Denver metro area’s political landscape. The city council operates with a focus on economic development and infrastructure improvements. Community engagement is strong, with regular town halls and active neighborhood associations throughout the city’s diverse districts.

🚓 Crime & Safety

Crime rates in Commerce City are moderate, with property crimes being more common than violent offenses. The Commerce City Police Department maintains active community policing programs and neighborhood watch initiatives. Northern neighborhoods generally report lower crime rates compared to areas closer to industrial zones.

🍽️ Dining & Entertainment

The dining scene reflects Commerce City’s multicultural population, with standout spots like La Casa del Rey serving authentic Mexican cuisine and Rosenberg’s Bagels & Delicatessen offering New York-style favorites. Dick’s Sporting Goods Park hosts Colorado Rapids soccer matches and major concerts. The Mile High Greyhound Park area is undergoing redevelopment into a mixed-use entertainment district.

🏛️ Local Government

Commerce City operates under a council-manager form of government with seven council members and an elected mayor. City services are well-regarded, particularly snow removal and parks maintenance. The city has invested heavily in infrastructure improvements, including road widening projects and utility upgrades to support growth.

🚍 Transportation

Transportation options include RTD bus routes connecting to downtown Denver and the A Line to Denver International Airport. Highway 270 and I-70 provide major arterial access. Many residents commute by car, though the city is expanding bike lanes and pedestrian infrastructure. The proximity to DIA (15 minutes) is a major advantage for frequent travelers.

🏘️ Housing & Real Estate

Housing remains more affordable than many Denver suburbs, with median home prices around $450,000. The market features a mix of older ranch-style homes, new construction developments, and townhomes. Reunion and Buffalo Run neighborhoods offer newer amenities, while established areas provide larger lots and mature trees.

🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life

Commerce City maintains over 700 acres of parks and open space. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge offers 15,000 acres for hiking and wildlife viewing. Pioneer Park and Paradice Island Park provide family-friendly amenities. The South Platte River Trail connects to Denver’s extensive trail system for cycling and walking.

💼 Job Market

The median household income is approximately $72,000. Major employers include Suncor Energy refinery, FedEx, UPS, and various logistics companies leveraging proximity to DIA. The industrial sector remains strong, while retail and service jobs are growing. Many residents commute to Denver, Aurora, or the Denver Tech Center for professional positions.

🧑‍🏫 Education

Adams 14 and 27J school districts serve Commerce City, with efforts underway to improve academic performance. STEM Launch K-8 and Lester Arnold High School are notable public options. Private alternatives include St. Pius X Catholic School. Front Range Community College and Metro State University Denver offer nearby higher education opportunities.

🌞 Climate & Weather

Commerce City enjoys Colorado’s signature 300+ days of sunshine annually. Summers are warm with highs in the 80s-90s, while winters are mild compared to mountain communities, with average lows in the 20s. Spring can bring unpredictable weather including occasional hail. The semi-arid climate means low humidity year-round.

💬 Community Sentiment

Long-time residents appreciate the small-town feel despite rapid growth, while newcomers value the affordability and location. Community Facebook groups actively discuss development concerns and celebrate local businesses. There’s pride in the city’s blue-collar roots mixed with excitement about ongoing revitalization efforts.

✨ Why People Are Moving to Commerce City

Commerce City attracts relocators seeking Denver metro accessibility without downtown prices. The combination of affordable housing, improving schools, and major infrastructure investments positions the city for continued growth. Whether you’re a young family needing space to grow or a professional wanting easy airport access, Commerce City offers a practical Colorado lifestyle with room for both work and play.