Evergreen
Mountain-town living 45 minutes from downtown Denver — elk, pines, and a frozen lake
Why People Move Here
Evergreen is genuine mountain living without leaving the metro — elk herds in your yard, 230+ miles of trails, a frozen lake for skating in winter, and a Main Street with a saloon that's been serving since 1972. At 7,220 ft elevation and 45 minutes from downtown, it's the closest thing to a mountain town that's still commutable to Denver. Median home at $850K reflects the premium, but it's half of what comparable mountain communities cost in Summit County.
Key Statistics
Data sourced from census records, school district reports, and local transit authorities.
Commute Times
School Districts
Jefferson County School District R-1
A-#22 in Colorado
- Evergreen High School — A grade (Niche), #26 Best Public HS in CO, #18 Athletes, GreatSchools 9/10
- Wilmot Elementary — highly rated mountain school
- Bergen Meadow Elementary
FAQ — Evergreen
What are the school ratings in Evergreen?
Evergreen is served by Jefferson County School District R-1, rated A− by Niche and ranked #22 in Colorado. Evergreen High School holds an A grade, ranks #26 among public high schools statewide, #18 for athletics, and receives a 9/10 from GreatSchools. Wilmot Elementary is a highly rated mountain school. D’Evelyn Jr/Sr High School is available to all Jeffco residents by application. District boundaries are complex — verify enrollment eligibility by address.
How long is the commute from Evergreen to Denver?
Evergreen is approximately 30 miles west of downtown Denver via Highway 74 to I-70. Off-peak drive time is 37–45 minutes; during rush hour, expect 55–75 minutes. The route is scenic but weather-dependent in winter. Golden and Lakewood are closer at 20–25 minutes off-peak. RTD Route EV runs from Evergreen to Federal Center Station for a W Line connection, but operates on a limited peak-hours-only schedule.
What is the median home price in Evergreen?
As of February 2026, the median home price in Evergreen is approximately $830K–$878K. Redfin reports $830K (down 10.8% year-over-year) while Zillow shows $878K. List prices often start at $950K+. The range runs from $500K cabins to $2M+ estates, and homes average 40–86 days on market depending on price tier.
What outdoor recreation is available in Evergreen?
Evergreen Lake is the community’s centerpiece — offering ice skating in winter, fishing and paddleboarding in summer, and a 1.3-mile loop trail year-round. Elk Meadow Park provides a 4.6-mile loop with year-round elk herd sightings. Alderfer/Three Sisters Park features distinctive rock formations and 7+ miles of trails. The Evergreen Park & Recreation District encompasses 230+ miles of hiking and biking trails. The seasonal Mount Evans Scenic Byway reaches 14,264 feet — the highest paved road in North America.
What are the crime statistics in Evergreen?
Evergreen reports very low violent crime rates consistent with its rural mountain community character. Property crime is also low, consisting primarily of crimes of opportunity. As an unincorporated area, law enforcement is provided by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
What is the cost of living in Evergreen?
Evergreen’s cost of living is 24% above the national average (Salary.com 2026), with housing as the primary driver. Property tax rates run approximately 1.0–1.5% of appraised value under Jefferson County, with a median annual tax bill of approximately $5,010. As an unincorporated community, there is no municipal sales tax — residents pay only the Jefferson County and state rates.
What dining options are available in Evergreen?
Evergreen offers a curated mountain dining scene. Notable options include: • Lariat Lodge Brewing — mountain brews with a large patio • Murphy’s Mountain Grill — casual dining • The Wildflower Cafe — popular brunch spot • Creekside Cellars Winery & Cafe — wine and dining The area has 2+ breweries including Lariat Lodge and craft options in Bergen Park. Muddy Buck Coffee House is a local institution housed in the historic Evergreen Hotel building.
What healthcare facilities are near Evergreen?
The nearest hospital is St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood, approximately 25 minutes away, which operates as a Level I Trauma Center. Denver hospitals are roughly 40 minutes from Evergreen. There is no hospital within the community itself. Residents should plan for the distance when considering urgent medical needs.
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