Thinking About Moving to Lakewood, CO

📍 Lakewood, CO at a Glance

• Population: 155,984
• Location: 5 miles west of downtown Denver, bordered by the Rocky Mountain foothills
• Incorporated: 1969
• Known For: Belmar downtown district, extensive trail system, and proximity to Red Rocks Amphitheatre

🗳️ Politics & Civic Life

Lakewood leans slightly Democratic, reflecting Colorado’s purple state status. The city council operates under a council-manager form of government with active citizen participation through numerous boards and commissions. Residents are engaged in local issues, particularly around growth management, sustainability initiatives, and preserving open spaces.

🚓 Crime & Safety

Lakewood maintains crime rates slightly below the national average, with particularly safe neighborhoods in the Green Mountain and Ken Caryl Ranch areas. The Lakewood Police Department emphasizes community policing and maintains strong neighborhood watch programs. Property crimes are more common than violent crimes, typical of suburban Denver communities.

🍽️ Dining & Entertainment

The Belmar district serves as Lakewood’s downtown hub, featuring restaurants like The Yardhouse, Wasabi Sushi, and 240 Union. Local favorites include Casa Bonita (recently renovated by South Park creators), Simms Steakhouse, and the historic Davies’ Chuck Wagon Diner. The city offers everything from craft breweries to international cuisine, with a growing food scene that rivals Denver’s offerings.

🏛️ Local Government

Lakewood operates under a council-manager system with 11 council members representing five wards. The city provides comprehensive services including its own police department, public works, and planning departments. City Hall is known for being responsive to residents, with regular town halls and strong online service portals.

🚍 Transportation

The RTD W Line light rail connects Lakewood to downtown Denver in 20 minutes, with stations at Federal Center, Lamar, and Wadsworth. Major highways including US 6 and C-470 provide easy access throughout the metro area. While the city is car-dependent, extensive bike lanes and trails offer alternative transportation options, especially in newer developments.

🏘️ Housing & Real Estate

Lakewood’s housing market offers diverse options from mid-century ranch homes to modern townhomes and luxury estates. Median home prices hover around $550,000, making it more affordable than Denver proper. Popular neighborhoods include Belmar for walkability, Green Mountain for families, and Bear Creek for luxury living. The rental market remains competitive with average two-bedroom apartments around $1,800 monthly.

🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life

With over 100 parks and 7,000 acres of open space, Lakewood is an outdoor paradise. Bear Creek Lake Park offers swimming, camping, and water sports, while Green Mountain provides miles of hiking and biking trails. The city maintains 248 miles of trails, connecting neighborhoods to natural areas. William Frederick Hayden Park on Green Mountain is a local favorite for sunset hikes with panoramic views.

💼 Job Market

Lakewood’s economy is robust with a median household income of $72,000. Major employers include St. Anthony Hospital (SCL Health), Jefferson County Government, Denver Federal Center (largest concentration of federal agencies outside Washington D.C.), and Terumo BCT. The city’s proximity to Denver expands employment opportunities significantly, with many residents commuting to downtown or the Denver Tech Center.

🧑‍🏫 Education

Jefferson County Public Schools serves Lakewood with highly-rated schools including Lakewood High School, Green Mountain High School, and numerous distinguished elementary schools. Private options include St. Bernadette Catholic School and Montessori School of Lakewood. Colorado Christian University’s main campus is located here, and Red Rocks Community College serves the area for higher education.

🌞 Climate & Weather

Lakewood enjoys Colorado’s famous 300+ days of sunshine annually with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm but not humid (highs around 85°F), while winters are mild with occasional snow (average 55 inches annually). The semi-arid climate means low humidity year-round. Spring can be unpredictable with late snowstorms, while fall offers spectacular weather and foliage.

💬 Community Sentiment

Residents praise Lakewood’s perfect balance of city amenities and outdoor access. The community values its small-town feel despite being Colorado’s fifth-largest city. Locals appreciate the lower cost of living compared to Denver, excellent schools, and family-friendly atmosphere. Common concerns include increasing traffic and rapid development, though most agree the city manages growth well while maintaining its character.

✨ Why People Are Moving to Lakewood

Lakewood continues to attract newcomers seeking Colorado’s outdoor lifestyle without Denver’s hefty price tag. The combination of excellent schools, abundant parks, convenient light rail access, and a thriving local economy makes it ideal for families and young professionals alike. Whether you’re drawn to morning hikes on Green Mountain, evening concerts at Red Rocks, or simply want a welcoming community with urban conveniences and natural beauty at your doorstep, Lakewood delivers the authentic Colorado experience that so many seek.