Those who have visited Denver immediately notice its appeal — the Rocky Mountain range provides a stunning backdrop, and the exciting downtown nightlife offers endless entertainment. With hundreds of hiking trails providing a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Denver is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. On the off chance that the day isn’t sunny and beautiful, you can always head indoors to check out one of the many museums, libraries, and cultural centers the capital city has to offer.

Whether you’re looking to make a career move or seeking an idyllic place to settle down and spend your retirement years, Denver offers an impressive range of ways to stay active and enjoy new experiences. The city has been growing over the past decade, attracting more people to call it home. With many exciting opportunities to be had, read on to discover why you should consider packing up and heading to the Mile High City.

Healthy Job Market

A crucial factor for many when moving to a new city is the job market, and Denver’s is thriving. The local economy is one of the most diverse in the country, with the energy sector alone employing around 150,000 people. The median household income in Denver is $82,000, which is higher than the national median. The city offers opportunities in various industries, including tech, food and agriculture, aerospace, healthcare, and the burgeoning legal cannabis arena. Companies such as Google, Zoom, and Boeing have headquarters in Denver, attracting top talent. Denver is home to 11 Fortune 500 companies, and the Colorado Business Economic Outlook forecasts job growth across all industries.

Bountiful Outdoor Activities

Denver is one of the best cities in the United States for those who love spending time outdoors. The nearby Rocky Mountain National Park, less than a two-hour drive away, offers breathtaking views and wildlife encounters. Whether you’re an avid hiker, biker, mountain climber, or skier, Denver has something for everyone. Within the city, the Cherry Creek Bike Path provides a 40-mile paved trail along quaint scenery. For relaxation, head to the Indian Hot Springs to soak in geothermal caves. Popular hikes around Denver include Trading Post Trail, Wild Basin, The Bluffs Loop, Garden of the Gods, Castle Rock Trail, Deer Creek Canyon Loop, and Flatirons Vista.

Increased Health and Wellness

Denver consistently ranks high on the list of healthiest cities in the United States. In 2020, it was ranked as the seventh healthiest city. The evaluation considered healthcare, food, fitness, and access to green space. Denver residents enjoy farmer’s markets with fresh organic produce and well-maintained parks and urban forests. The city’s commitment to green space access promotes physical and mental health, making it easier for residents to stay active and healthy.

Unique Neighborhoods

Denver offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit different lifestyles and preferences:

• Capitol Hill: The most populous neighborhood, filled with restaurants and activities.
• Golden Triangle: A creative district with museums, libraries, and Civic Center Park.
• Downtown “LoDo”: Known for its buzzing nightlife, attracts a younger crowd.
• Five Points: A diverse area with eateries, bars, and an annual jazz festival.
• Washington Park “Wash Park”: Suburban living with lush park and lake views, great for families.
• City Park: Ideal for dog owners due to its proximity to Cheesman Park and City Park.
• Berkeley: Perfect for families seeking a quiet, safe residential feel.

The real estate market has shown signs of cooling off, balancing between pre-pandemic numbers and the skyrocketing prices of recent years. Prospective buyers may find favorable deals on their new Colorado homes.

Blossoming Arts Culture

Denver’s culture is rich in tradition and history, with a modern touch. The downtown area is vibrant with breweries, restaurants, and art galleries. Red Rocks Amphitheater is a prime location for live music. For classical art, the Denver Performing Arts Center offers operas and plays. The Denver Philharmonic Orchestra, celebrating its 75th anniversary, performs stunning pieces featuring international soloists. The River North Arts District (RiNo) is perfect for those who enjoy murals and street art. Other cultural hotspots include the Ogden Theatre, Denver Art Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art, and Fillmore Auditorium.

Four-Season Climate

Denver’s weather is remarkably pleasant year-round. The city enjoys approximately 245 days of sunshine annually. Even during the summer, low humidity levels keep the heat bearable. Winters bring an average of 57.1 inches of snowfall, but storms are generally short-lived, and snow melts quickly. The risk of natural disasters is low due to Denver’s distance from the coast and Tornado Alley. The city’s high elevation and arid climate create favorable conditions throughout every season.

Winning Sports Teams

Denver boasts teams in all major sports leagues, including NFL, NHL, MLB, NBA, MLS, and professional lacrosse. Ball Arena hosts the Avalanche and the Nuggets, while Empower Field is home to the Broncos. Professional sports foster community spirit, and attending games is a great way to meet fellow residents. For those not wanting season tickets, many bars host watch parties, especially during playoffs.

Impressive Educational Opportunities

Denver offers reputable public school districts and 28 campuses for higher education. Universities like the University of Denver, University of Colorado at Denver, Regis University, and Colorado School of Mines produce successful graduates. Colorado has the nation’s second most educated workforce, with 47.8% of Metro Denver residents holding at least a bachelor’s degree. This attracts educators and provides ample resources for those returning to school or seeking financial assistance.

Popular Craft Beer Scene

Denver is a haven for beer enthusiasts, with a rich brewing history dating back to the mid-1800s. The city hosts numerous taverns, microbreweries, and taprooms. The Coors Brewery Tour in nearby Golden offers samples and insights into the brand’s history. The annual Great American Beer Festival in September is a highlight. Popular brewery tours include the Denver Microbrew Tour, Bike and Brew Tour, Walking Brew Tour, Great Divide Brewing Company Tour, and eTuk Craft Brewery Crawl.

Dogs Welcome

Denver is one of the most dog-friendly cities in the country, with more dogs than children. The city offers numerous hiking trails, parks, and dog-friendly restaurants and breweries. Growing numbers of dog parks allow pets to run freely and socialize.

Welcoming and Inclusive Neighbors

Denver is known for its welcoming hospitality and inclusivity. The city attracts diverse individuals, creating an open-minded and comfortable environment. Moving to Denver provides opportunities to build new relationships and community connections through local activities and events.

Other Considerations Before Moving to Denver

With over 700,000 residents, Denver offers endless opportunities for exploration and connection. However, the high altitude may take some getting used to, and the housing market remains competitive. Public transportation is available, but having a car is beneficial for exploring beyond downtown, especially for day trips to hike or ski.

Conclusion

Denver’s thriving job market, abundant outdoor activities, health and wellness focus, unique neighborhoods, rich arts culture, favorable climate, winning sports teams, impressive educational opportunities, popular craft beer scene, dog-friendly environment, and welcoming neighbors make it an ideal place to live. Whether you’re moving for a career, retirement, or a new adventure, Denver offers a vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle.