Lakewood
Denver's western gateway — Bear Creek Lake, Casa Bonita, and light rail to downtown
Why People Move Here
Lakewood is Denver's western gateway — the 5th largest city in Colorado, with RTD W Line light rail to Union Station, Bear Creek Lake Park's 2,624 acres at its doorstep, and Casa Bonita (reopened by the South Park creators) as its most iconic landmark. Belmar gives it a walkable urban village the suburbs usually lack. Median home at $560K positions it between Denver prices and mountain-town premiums.
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
- D'Evelyn Jr/Sr HS — #3 Best Public Middle School in CO (Niche), open to all Jeffco by application
- Devinny Elementary — #59 Best Public Elementary in CO
- Green Mountain HS — comprehensive campus, strong athletics
- Lakewood HS — diverse, arts-focused
FAQ — Lakewood
What are the school ratings in Lakewood?
Lakewood is served by Jefferson County School District R-1, rated A− by Niche and ranked #22 in Colorado. D’Evelyn Jr/Sr High School ranks #3 among public middle schools statewide and is open to all Jeffco residents by application. Devinny Elementary ranks #59 among public elementary schools in Colorado. Green Mountain High School and Lakewood High School are the main comprehensive campuses. District boundaries are complex — verify enrollment eligibility by address.
How long is the commute from Lakewood to Denver?
Lakewood is approximately 10 miles west of downtown Denver via US-6 or Colfax Avenue. Off-peak drive time is 15–20 minutes; during rush hour, expect 30–45 minutes. The RTD W Line light rail runs 12.1 miles with 13 stations from Lakewood/Wadsworth to Union Station in approximately 30 minutes. Lakewood is also 15 minutes from I-70, making it a gateway to ski country.
What is the median home price in Lakewood?
As of February 2026, the median home price in Lakewood is approximately $557K–$566K at roughly $270 per square foot. Redfin reports $557K (down 2.6% year-over-year) while Zillow shows $566K (down 2.8%). Prices range from $300K condos to $1M+ homes in Solterra and Green Mountain neighborhoods. Homes average about 42 days on market, up from 27 days the prior year.
What outdoor recreation is available in Lakewood?
Bear Creek Lake Park is Lakewood’s centerpiece — 2,624 acres with a lake, swim beach, camping, and 10+ miles of trails including mountain biking. Green Mountain rises to a 2,400-foot summit with 6+ miles of trails and panoramic Front Range views. Belmar Park adds 132 acres with a fishing lake and walking trails. The Bear Creek Greenbelt provides a connecting trail system through south Lakewood.
What are the crime statistics in Lakewood?
Lakewood’s crime rates are moderate — higher than the Jefferson County average but below Denver. The property crime rate is 58 per 1,000 (NeighborhoodScout), though it varies significantly by neighborhood. Niche assigns a Crime & Safety grade of C.
What is the cost of living in Lakewood?
Lakewood’s cost of living is below Denver but above the national average, making housing competitive for the west-side metro. The combined sales tax rate is 7.5%. Residential properties are assessed at 6.25–7.05% under Jefferson County rates. Median household income is $89,792.
What dining options are available in Lakewood?
Lakewood offers a diverse dining scene anchored by several notable spots: • Casa Bonita — iconic cliff-diver restaurant reopened by South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone • 240 Union — upscale New American dining in a historic building • WaterCourse Foods — longstanding vegetarian and vegan institution • Belmar district — concentration of restaurants and cafes in a walkable urban village The city has 5+ breweries including Joyrides Brewing and Cider Boy. The Belmar Farmers Market runs on summer Sundays.
What healthcare facilities are in Lakewood?
St. Anthony Hospital is located in Lakewood and operates as a Level I Trauma Center, high performing in 4 adult procedures according to U.S. News. Multiple UCHealth, CareNow, and St. Anthony-affiliated urgent care clinics serve the city. Denver Health is 15 minutes away and the Anschutz Medical Campus is 25 minutes east.
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