Denver, Colorado and the larger Metro Denver area make for a great place to lay down roots and raise kids.
For instance, Denver sits right on the doorstep of an incredible natural playground – the Rocky Mountains. If you’re looking to get yourself or your kids into hiking, camping, fishing, skiing/snowboarding, or simply appreciating the great outdoors at an any age, there are few places better than Denver to make your home.
Of course, Denver features all the cultural amenities of a major city too, with plenty of museums, art galleries, and theaters to inspire creativity and a passion for learning. On that note, the city’s public, charter and private schools provide lots of options throughout all of Colorado.
All of these elements make living in Denver great. However, if you ask us, the best part of living here, including raising a family here, is the plentiful options of neighborhoods.
Here are a few of our selections of neighborhoods in the Denver metro for families of all shapes and sizes.
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The Best Neighborhoods in Denver For Families
Denver is unlike anywhere else in the United States when it comes to lifestyle, and the city’s homes and communities reflect this. These neighborhoods are great for anyone looking in Denver, but if you’re looking for the best Denver suburbs for families, here are a few picks that should be on your list in Douglas County.
Pradera
Kicking off our list is the scenic community of Pradera. Located in Parker, Colorado, Pradera is an ideal option for families because it offers a little bit of everything, including great homes on spacious lots, extensive trails and a close-knit community feel.
While adults (and some kids too) love the neighborhood’s award-winning private golf course, Pradera is also known for its amenity-rich community center, which includes a pool, park, and more.
Many kids in Pradera attend schools in Parker, but there are lots of options throughout the county, public, private and charter schools!
- Mountain View Elementary School
- Northeast Elementary School
- Sagewood Middle School
- Ponderosa High School
- Parker Core Knowledge
The Timbers
Not far from Pradera is The Timbers, a quaint family community built with upscale living in mind. Featuring an abundance of spacious family homes, quiet streets, and the 25-acre Bingham Lake – a favorite for biking, hiking and fishing, The Timbers is your picturesque family neighborhood with a luxury twist. Families have the convenience of three private country clubs, The Pinery Country Club, Colorado Golf Club and The Club at Pradera.
Just like in Pradera, families who live in The Timbers have many public, private and charter school options for their kids to go to school.
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The Canyons
Located in beautiful Castle Pines, Colorado, The Canyons is one of the newest neighborhoods in Metro Denver. Designed to meet the needs of modern families, the Canyons features great views, rolling hills, natural ravines, an abundance of parks and over 15 miles of trails. It’s the ideal place to lay your roots and raise a family surrounded by nature, while still be close to everything.
Schools near The Canyons include:
- Buffalo Ridge Elementary
- Timber Trail Elementary School
- DSC Montessori Charter
- American Academy – Castle Pines
Castle Pines Village
Designed to emulate resort living, Castle Pines Village is a highly sought-after, gated neighborhood in Colorado. Tucked away and surrounded by more than 13 miles of hiking trails, this community is perfect for those who love nature. It is an active community designed with multiple generations in mind. The impressive amenities included multiple pools, tennis courts, basketball courts and a fitness center.
Many families in Castle Pines Village send their children to the same selection of schools as The Canyons.
Backcountry
Located just south of Denver in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, Backcountry is a scenic and charming gated community complete with mountain views and incredible amenities. Here, you’ll find a wide range of homes tailored to families of all sizes. Other family-friendly features include the Sundial House with a community pool, a fitness center, an amphitheater, and plenty of parks and trails.
Nearby schools include:
- Stone Mountain Elementary School
- Ranch View Middle School
- Thunder Ridge High School
- ARMA DEI Academy
- Valor Christian High School
Find Your Perfect Family Home in Denver
There’s a lot to love about living in the Mile High City at any stage in your life, but the benefits of starting your family here are practically endless.
If you’re searching for the right place to settle or to raise your family, you’ll want to work with a local expert who understands your unique needs. That’s where I come in.
With more than 20 years of real estate experience and a deep familiarity with the Denver market, I can help you find the perfect home and neighborhood for your next chapter. When you’re ready to begin your journey, get in touch with me.
Searching for the perfect neighborhood to call home? As a local Denver agent, I can help! Send us an email at alana.hankins@compass.com or call 303.907.1500 to get in touch!

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