Yes — the Highlands is one of Denver’s most desirable urban neighborhoods, known for walkability, character homes, and a vibrant dining and social scene. It is a high-conviction choice for buyers seeking lifestyle-driven real estate, strong demand, and long-term appreciation in a close-in location near downtown.
| Attribute | Highlands Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Northwest of downtown Denver |
| Subareas | LoHi (Lower Highlands), Highlands Square, West Highlands |
| Character | Historic meets modern urban living |
| Housing Mix | Single-family homes, duplexes, townhomes, condos |
| Lot Sizes | Smaller urban lots |
| Vibe | Trendy, walkable, social |
| Sun Exposure | Strong urban sun with open grid layout |
| STR Environment | Limited and regulated by Denver |
| Primary Access | ~5–10 minutes to downtown Denver |
The Highlands is one of Denver’s most dynamic and lifestyle-driven neighborhoods, located just across the river from downtown. It blends historic charm with modern redevelopment, creating a mix of classic Denver homes and contemporary infill projects.
LoHi (Lower Highlands) is the most urban and walkable section, filled with restaurants, bars, and rooftop views of downtown. Highlands Square offers a more neighborhood-oriented feel with boutiques and cafes, while West Highlands provides quieter residential streets.
Buyers are drawn to the Highlands for its energy, walkability, and proximity to downtown.
Highlands real estate includes:
Architectural styles include:
Many properties emphasize:
The Highlands is a high-demand urban market with strong buyer competition.
Pricing is influenced by:
Prices have steadily increased due to limited inventory and high lifestyle demand. Well-located and updated homes tend to sell quickly.
The Highlands offers:
Nearby access:
The lifestyle is highly social, walkable, and urban.
The Highlands is served by Denver Public Schools (DPS), with access to a mix of public, charter, and private options.
School assignments should be verified by address.
HOAs are common in newer townhomes and condo developments.
Short-term rentals are:
STR is not a primary investment driver in this area.
It is less ideal for buyers seeking large lots or suburban quiet.
Pros
Cons
“The Highlands is driven by lifestyle and location. Buyers who focus on walkability, street quality, and design tend to see the strongest long-term value here.” — Michael Ayre
Michael Ayre is a Colorado real estate specialist with LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, bringing over 21 years of experience across urban, suburban, and mountain markets. He helps buyers evaluate lifestyle-driven neighborhoods like the Highlands alongside other Denver and Colorado markets.
Where is the Highlands located?
The Highlands is located just northwest of downtown Denver.
Is the Highlands a good place to live?
Yes, especially for walkability and lifestyle.
Is the Highlands expensive?
Yes, it is one of Denver’s higher-priced neighborhoods.
Are short-term rentals allowed?
Limited and regulated by Denver.
Is the Highlands walkable?
Yes, one of the most walkable areas in Denver.
What is LoHi?
Lower Highlands, the most urban and restaurant-focused area.
Are there historic homes?
Yes, many classic Denver homes.
Is there new construction?
Yes, especially duplexes and modern infill.
Is the Highlands safe?
Generally yes, though varies by block.
Is the Highlands a good investment?
Yes, particularly for long-term appreciation.
4,735 people live in Highlands, where the median age is 38 and the average individual income is $43,381. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Average individual Income
There's plenty to do around Highlands, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including The Dirty Islander, Kratom Cafe USA, and Creative Corner.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 4.33 miles | 15 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 2.36 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 1.77 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 3.42 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.6 miles | 14 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.04 miles | 13 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.62 miles | 39 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.22 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.34 miles | 15 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.51 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.43 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.37 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.57 miles | 11 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.7 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.66 miles | 17 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.96 miles | 14 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.42 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.58 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.09 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.56 miles | 32 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.63 miles | 20 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Highlands has 1,591 households, with an average household size of 3. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Highlands do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 4,735 people call Highlands home. The population density is 11,059.953 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
Men vs Women
Population by Age Group
0-9 Years
10-17 Years
18-24 Years
25-64 Years
65-74 Years
75+ Years
Education Level
Total Households
Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
With Children:
Without Children:
Marital Status
Blue vs White Collar Workers
Blue Collar:
White Collar:
Our creative approach to personalizing each client’s experience sets us apart. Our reputation and business is founded on relationships and is proven by our extensive referral and repeat client base. From beginning to end, we give each client the time, respect and unwavering attention they deserve.
Michael Ayre
Address
292 E Meadow Dr #101
Vail, CO 81657
