Lakewood is a large, diverse suburb situated directly west of Denver, offering a blend of established residential areas, evolving commercial districts like Belmar, and easy access to both urban amenities and mountain recreation. Characterized by a mix of mid-century ranches, modern townhomes, and new construction, it caters to families, young professionals, and those seeking more space than central Denver without sacrificing accessibility.
Current Listings in Lakewood
Lakewood Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price (May 2024) | $560,000 |
| Housing Style | Mid-century ranches, brick bungalows, modern townhomes, new construction, some condos |
| Walk Score | Overall: 48 (Car-Dependent). Belmar district: 70+ (Very Walkable) |
| School District | Jefferson County Public Schools (Jeffco Public Schools) |
| Commute Time (to Downtown Denver) | 20-40 minutes by car (variable), 20-25 minutes via RTD Light Rail W Line |
The Pros
- **Commuter-Friendly:** The RTD W Line Light Rail offers efficient public transit to Downtown Denver, bypassing traffic.
- **Diverse Amenities:** The Belmar district provides a robust retail, dining, and entertainment hub, functioning as a vibrant town center.
- **Outdoor Access:** Proximity to both urban parks like Belmar Park and quick access to the foothills for hiking and mountain activities.
The Trade-offs
- **Traffic Congestion:** Major thoroughfares like Wadsworth Boulevard and 6th Avenue can experience significant congestion during peak hours.
- **Varied Walkability:** While areas like Belmar are highly walkable, many residential zones remain car-dependent, requiring a vehicle for errands.
- **Neighborhood Identity:** Due to its large size and suburban sprawl, some parts of Lakewood lack a distinct, cohesive neighborhood feel compared to older Denver areas.
Local Entities & Lifestyle Anchors
Lakewood offers specific points of interest that define its local character and resident lifestyle:
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Belmar Shopping District
An outdoor urbanist center replacing a former mall, Belmar functions as Lakewood’s de facto downtown. It features a diverse array of national retailers, local boutiques, numerous restaurants (e.g., The French Press, Ted’s Montana Grill), a movie theater, and community event spaces. It’s a central hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment.
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Lakewood Heritage Center
Located within Belmar Park, the Lakewood Heritage Center is an expansive museum and park dedicated to preserving and sharing the city’s history. It includes historic buildings, exhibits, a 1920s-era tram, and hosts numerous community events, providing a cultural and educational anchor for residents.
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Sloan’s Lake Park (Adjacent Denver Amenity)
While technically in Denver, the western edge of Sloan’s Lake Park is directly adjacent to eastern Lakewood, making it a significant recreational amenity for many residents. The large urban lake offers a 2.6-mile paved loop popular for walking, running, and cycling, along with boating and stunning views of the Denver skyline and Front Range mountains.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lakewood
- Is Lakewood, CO walkable?
- Walkability in Lakewood varies significantly. The Belmar district is highly walkable with a Walk Score above 70, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and services on foot. However, many residential areas are more car-dependent, and walking or biking for daily errands may require planning.
- What are the schools like in Lakewood?
- Lakewood is served by Jefferson County Public Schools (Jeffco Public Schools), one of Colorado’s largest districts. The district encompasses a wide range of elementary, middle, and high schools. Performance and ratings can vary by individual school, so prospective residents are advised to research specific school profiles and attendance boundaries through official Jeffco Public Schools resources or state education department websites.
- How is the commute from Lakewood to Downtown Denver?
- The commute to Downtown Denver from Lakewood is generally efficient, particularly via the RTD W Line Light Rail, which provides a dedicated route taking approximately 20-25 minutes from stations like Lakewood-Wadsworth. Driving times can range from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on major arteries like 6th Avenue and I-70.