Federal Heights
Water World and budget-friendly living between Denver, Westminster, and Thornton
Why People Move Here
Federal Heights is the north metro's budget play — at $400K median, it's the cheapest entry into the inner north corridor. The headline attraction is Water World (70+ acres, one of America's largest water parks). Federal Blvd's international restaurant corridor runs through the city. At 14,400 people in a compact footprint, it's a small city punching above its weight for affordability and access.
Key Statistics
Data sourced from census records, school district reports, and local transit authorities.
Commute Times
School Districts
Adams 12 Five Star Schools
B+#28 Best District in Colorado · Most diverse: #17 CO
- Part of large Adams 12 district
- Thornton HS and Northglenn HS nearby
FAQ — Federal Heights
What are the school ratings in Federal Heights?
Federal Heights is served by Adams 12 Five Star Schools (Niche grade B+), a large suburban district shared with Westminster and Thornton. Thornton HS and Northglenn HS are the nearby high schools. Adams 12 is a solid suburban district — verify zoning by address to confirm which schools serve your home.
How is the commute from Federal Heights to Downtown Denver?
Federal Heights is approximately 8 miles north of Downtown Denver via Federal Boulevard or I-25. Off-peak, the drive takes 15–20 minutes; during rush hour, expect 25–40 minutes. Westminster and Broomfield are 10–15 minutes away. The city has RTD bus routes along Federal Blvd but no light rail service.
What is the median home price in Federal Heights?
The median home price in Federal Heights is $380K–$420K as of 2026, making it one of the most affordable cities in the inner north metro. The housing stock is primarily older with some new infill development occurring as the area urbanizes.
What outdoor recreation is available in Federal Heights?
Water World is the headline attraction — a 70+ acre water park and one of the largest in the United States, open seasonally in summer. Hyland Hills Golf Course offers a public 18-hole course. Clear Creek Trail access is available nearby via Wheat Ridge and Westminster. The city also maintains a system of smaller community parks.
What is the cost of living in Federal Heights?
Federal Heights’ 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 8.75%. The median household income is $56,597. Colorado’s state income tax is a flat 4.4%.
What are the top restaurants in Federal Heights?
Federal Heights has 17+ restaurants, anchored by the Federal Blvd international corridor. Notable options include: • La Perla Tapatia — authentic Mexican, street tacos, and margaritas • CD’s Wings — house-made sauces since 2007 • GQue BBQ — craft barbecue • Federal Blvd corridor — Vietnamese, Ethiopian, Korean, and Mexican restaurants No breweries are located within the city, but Westminster and Thornton breweries are 5–10 minutes away.
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