Parker
DTC/tech workers & "hometown feel" active lifestyle
Why People Move Here
Parker consistently ranks as one of Colorado's best places to live. The 15–25 minute commute to DTC makes it ideal for tech and corporate workers who want space without a brutal commute.
Key Statistics
Data sourced from census records, school district reports, and local transit authorities.
Commute Times
School Districts
Douglas County RE-1
A−#5 in Colorado
- Chaparral HS — strong college prep
- Legend HS — competitive athletics
- Parker-area schools consistently rank in top 20 CO
- ~$155K–$181K median household income
FAQ — Parker
What are the school ratings in Parker?
Parker is served by Douglas County RE-1, rated A− by Niche and ranked #5 in Colorado. Chaparral HS offers strong college prep and Legend HS has a 97% graduation rate. Parker-area schools consistently rank in the top 20 statewide. The median household income in the district is approximately $155K–$181K. Note: district boundaries are complex in Douglas County — verify enrollment eligibility by address.
How long is the commute from Parker to Denver?
Parker is approximately 25 miles southeast of downtown Denver via I-25 and E-470. The off-peak commute to downtown is 30–45 minutes. The commute to the Denver Tech Center (DTC) is a key advantage at just 15–25 minutes. Parker has no direct light rail service — the nearest station is Lincoln Station, requiring a short drive.
What is the median home price in Parker?
As of 2026, the median home price in Parker is approximately $655K–$710K, with Zillow reporting around $706K. Parker’s pricing reflects its Douglas County location, strong schools, and proximity to the DTC employment corridor.
What outdoor recreation is available in Parker?
Cherry Creek State Park offers 4,227 acres with 35 miles of trails, reservoir boating, and fishing. Rueter-Hess Reservoir provides 1,100 surface acres for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Salisbury Equestrian Park caters to horseback riding. Parker’s in-town trail network spans 60+ miles connecting neighborhoods, with Discovery Park in downtown offering a seasonal ice trail.
What are the crime statistics in Parker?
Parker’s violent crime rate is 2.7 per 1,000 residents and the property crime rate is 29.5 per 1,000. The overall crime trend is declining, with a roughly 13% decrease from 2023 to 2024.
What is the cost of living in Parker?
Parker’s cost of living index is approximately 143.6 (national average = 100), or about 44% above the national average. The effective property tax rate is roughly 0.64% (Douglas County). Sales tax ranges from 7.0% to 8.0% depending on special districts. Colorado has a flat 4.4% state income tax.
What dining and shopping options are in Parker?
Parker has 100+ restaurants and a growing scene along the Mainstreet corridor. Highlights: • Parker Garage — modern American with a dog-friendly patio • Portofino Pizza & Pasta — Italian on Mainstreet • Hickory House Ribs — local barbecue • Purgatory Handcraft, Blue Spruce Brewing, and Burns Family Artisan Ales breweries • Parker Farmers Market (Sundays, summer) • PACE Center — 542-seat theater with performances and culinary events
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