Commerce City

Denver's fastest-growing neighbor — Reunion, Dick's Sporting Goods Park, and DIA corridor affordability

Population
~74,000
Median Price
$420K–$470K
Distance
~10 mi NE via I-70/I-76/I-270
Walk Score
30 (car-dependent)
Colorado RapidsArsenal Wildlife RefugeReunion CommunityDIA Corridor
Overview

Why People Move Here

Commerce City is metro Denver's fastest-growing city (up 18% since 2020) and one of its most affordable at $440K median. The Reunion master-planned community is the engine — bringing residential communities, retail, and parks to what was historically an industrial corridor. Rocky Mountain Arsenal NWR (15,000 acres, free, bison herd) is the unexpected gem. The tradeoff: Adams 14 schools in older areas are among the weakest in the metro, though 27J in Reunion is stronger.


By the Numbers

Key Statistics

Data sourced from census records, school district reports, and local transit authorities.

Population
~74,000
Median Home
$420K–$470K
Range: $350K older areas to $550K+ in Reunion master-planned community. One of the most affordable cities adjacent to Denver.
Median Income
$68,000
household
School Rating
C
Adams 14 / School District 27J
Distance
~10 mi NE via I-70/I-76/I-270
to downtown
Parks & Trails
3+
nearby

Transportation

Commute Times

Downtown Denver15–20 min / 30–45 min
DIA15–20 min

Education

School Districts

Adams 14 / School District 27J

C
  • Adams 14 covers older Commerce City — under state oversight, improving
  • 27J (Brighton) covers Reunion and newer areas — stronger ratings

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Common Questions

FAQ — Commerce City

What are the school ratings in Commerce City?

Commerce City is served by two districts with significantly different ratings: Adams 14 (Niche grade C) covers older Commerce City and is under state oversight, while School District 27J (B−) covers the Reunion area and newer developments with stronger ratings. The district that serves your home varies dramatically by neighborhood — always verify enrollment by address.

How is the commute from Commerce City to Downtown Denver?

Commerce City is approximately 10 miles northeast of Downtown Denver via I-76/I-25 or I-270. Off-peak, the drive takes 15–20 minutes; during rush hour, expect 30–45 minutes. DIA is just 15–20 minutes away via Tower Road or E-470. The city is primarily car-dependent with RTD bus service but no light rail, though the 40th/Colorado and Peoria stations are nearby.

What is the median home price in Commerce City?

The median home price in Commerce City is $420K–$470K as of 2026, making it one of the most affordable cities directly adjacent to Denver. Prices range from $350K in older areas to $550K+ in the Reunion master-planned community.

What outdoor recreation is available in Commerce City?

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge spans 15,000 acres with bison herds, eagles, and free admission. Dick’s Sporting Goods Park is an 18,000-seat stadium and home of the Colorado Rapids MLS team. The Sand Creek Regional Greenway is a 14-mile trail connecting Commerce City to Aurora.

What is the cost of living in Commerce City?

Commerce City’s cost of living index is 121.3, about 21% above the national average. The effective property tax rate is approximately 0.60% (Adams County). The combined sales tax rate is 9.25%. The median household income is $68,000.

What are the top restaurants in Commerce City?

Commerce City has 100+ restaurants with a growing international food scene. The city features Latin, Asian, and African restaurants throughout the community. Mi Pueblo offers an authentic Latin grocery and taqueria experience. The Reunion area has a growing retail corridor with chain and local dining options. Brewery options are limited within city limits, with Denver and Thornton breweries nearby.


Nearby

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Other communities in North Metro.

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Westminster
~$520K · ~9 mi NW
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Thornton
$500K–$527K · ~10 mi N via I-25
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Arvada
~$599K · ~10–13 mi NW