10 Largest Cities in Colorado [2024]
Thinking of making the move to the Centennial State, but not sure where to start looking? Why not consider the most popular places to live in Colorado as a starting point? Whether you're seeking urban excitement, outdoor adventure, or a quiet, family-centered community, Colorado's largest cities have something to offer every renter.
In this guide, we'll dive into the most populated cities in Colorado, providing valuable insights about why people want to live there. We'll explore everything from average rent prices and rental availability to transportation options and local attractions. Join us as we uncover the best places to call home in the beautiful state of Colorado.
All of the rental data included here comes from current listings on our website, which are linked in the descriptions of each city. Transit scores come from walkscore.com and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census website.
Largest Cities in Colorado
Populations of the 10 Largest Cities in Colorado
| Rank | City | Population( 2023 estimate) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Denver | 716,577 |
| 2 | Colorado Springs | 488,664 |
| 3 | Aurora | 395,052 |
| 4 | Fort Collins | 170,376 |
| 5 | Lakewood | 155,961 |
| 6 | Thornton | 144,922 |
| 7 | Arvada | 121,414 |
| 8 | Westminster | 114,875 |
| 9 | Greeley | 112,609 |
| 10 | Pueblo | 111,077 |
1. Denver
- Population: 716,577
- Average one-bedroom rent: $1,982
- Number of currently available units: 909
- Walk score: 61
- Transit score: 45
- Bike score: 72
Denver, Colorado's capital and also its largest city by population, offers a vibrant mix of urban amenities and outdoor adventures. Known for its thriving arts scene, delicious food, and bustling nightlife, Denver caters to a diverse population. The city's strong economy and job market make it an attractive destination for young professionals.
With easy access to world-class skiing, hiking, and camping, Denver provides endless opportunities for recreation. While rent prices can be higher compared to other Colorado cities, the city's amenities and lifestyle often make it worth the investment.
2. Colorado Springs
- Population: 488,664
- Average one-bedroom rent: $1,503
- Number of currently available units: 582
- Walk score: 36
- Transit score: 19
- Bike score: 45
Colorado Springs is a picturesque city nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains. Offering a lower cost of living than Denver, it's an appealing option for families and those seeking a quieter pace of life without sacrificing natural beauty. The city boasts numerous parks, trails, and open spaces, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
A strong military presence due to Fort Carson means that Colorado Springs also has a lot of great local conveniences like higher availability of housing at more affordable rates. While job opportunities might be slightly less abundant compared to Denver, the city's charm and lower cost of living make it a desirable place to call home.
3. Aurora
- Population: 395,052
- Average one-bedroom rent: $1,672
- Number of currently available units: 238
- Walk score: 43
- Transit score: 35
- Bike score: 53
Aurora, Colorado's third-largest city, offers a suburban lifestyle with convenient access to Denver's amenities. Known for its diverse population and family-friendly neighborhoods, Aurora provides a strong sense of community.
The city has invested heavily in parks, recreation centers, and public transportation, making it a comfortable place to live. While not as bustling as Denver, Aurora offers a more affordable housing market and a lower crime rate.
4. Fort Collins
- Population: 170,376
- Average one-bedroom rent: $1,788
- Number of currently available units: 143
- Walk score: 37
- Transit score: 28
- Bike score: 78
Fort Collins is a college town known for its vibrant atmosphere, outdoor recreation, and strong emphasis on sustainability. Home to Colorado State University, the city boasts a young and energetic population. With a thriving craft beer scene, numerous parks, and easy access to the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins offers a lot of what residents love most about Colorado. While rent prices have risen in recent years due to its popularity, the city's charm and amenities continue to attract residents.
5. Lakewood
- Population: 155,961
- Average one-bedroom rent: $1,846
- Number of currently available units: 143
- Walk score: 43
- Transit score: 31
- Bike score: 56
Lakewood, another Denver suburb large enough to make the list, offers a peaceful and family-friendly environment. The city prides itself on its green spaces, parks, and recreational opportunities. With good schools, a low crime rate, and convenient access to major highways, Lakewood is a popular choice for families and commuters.
While not as centrally located as Denver, Lakewood provides a quieter suburban lifestyle. However, you'll still pay relatively high prices to rent there, so keep that in mind if you're looking for affordability outside of Denver.
6. Thornton
- Population: 144,922
- Average one-bedroom rent: $1,654
- Number of currently available units: 239
- Walk score: 32
- Transit score: 24
- Bike score: 38
Thornton, similar to Lakewood, offers a suburban lifestyle with easy access to Denver and the surrounding areas. The city has a strong focus on family-friendly amenities, including parks, recreational facilities, and good schools. With a growing job market and a diverse population, Thornton is experiencing rapid development.
While still maintaining a suburban feel, the city offers a variety of housing options to suit different lifestyles and budgets. You'll find both more affordable units and greater availability overall compared to other cities near Denver on this list.
7. Arvada
- Population: 121,414
- Average one-bedroom rent: $1,950
- Number of currently available units: 135
- Walk score: 35
- Transit score: 23
- Bike score: 50
Located just west of Denver, Arvada provides a unique blend of urban conveniences and small town charm, offering easy access to both the city and the Rocky Mountains. The city boasts a strong arts and culture scene, as well as numerous parks and trails. With a focus on sustainability, Arvada attracts a diverse population looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Colorado. While housing costs are generally higher than some other suburbs, the city's amenities and proximity to Denver make it a desirable place to live.
8. Westminster
- Population: 114,875
- Average one-bedroom rent: $1,727
- Number of currently available units: 103
- Walk score: 35
- Transit score: 26
- Bike score: 51
Westminster is a growing suburb offering a balance of affordability and convenience. Located north of Denver, it provides easy access to major highways and public transportation. Like other exurbs on this list, Westminster is great for families as it offers abundant parks, recreation centers, and great schools. You'll also pay slightly less than you would in an area like Lakewood or Arvada. With a mix of residential neighborhoods and commercial areas, Westminster offers a variety of housing options to suit different needs.
9. Greeley
- Population: 112,609
- Average one-bedroom rent: $1,419
- Number of currently available units: 131
- Walk score: 39
- Transit score: n/a
- Bike score: 47
Greeley is a vibrant college town home to the University of Northern Colorado. The city offers a youthful atmosphere, a strong sense of community, and a growing economy. With a focus on agriculture and technology, Greeley has abundant job opportunities for professionals. While still maintaining a small-town feel, the city offers a variety of amenities, including parks, museums, and cultural events. Housing costs are generally lower compared to Denver and its surrounding area, making Greeley an attractive option for students, young professionals, and families.
10. Pueblo
- Population: 111,077
- Average one-bedroom rent: $1,293
- Number of currently available units: 49
- Walk score: 37
- Transit score: n/a
- Bike score: 47
Pueblo, Colorado's tenth-largest city, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventuring. Known for its steel industry, the city has undergone revitalization efforts in recent years. Pueblo boasts a rich Hispanic heritage, as well as a thriving arts scene. With easy access to the Arkansas River and the surrounding mountains, the city offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Housing costs are relatively affordable, making Pueblo an attractive option for those seeking a quieter pace of life without sacrificing amenities.
Rent in the Ten Largest Cities in Colorado
Want to compare rent prices in Colorado's largest cities?
Here's a quick glance at the average rate of one-bedrooms currently listed on our website:
| Rank | City | Average 1-Bedroom Rent | Current Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Denver | $1,982 | 909 |
| 2 | Colorado Springs | $1,503 | 582 |
| 3 | Aurora | $1,672 | 238 |
| 4 | Fort Collins | $1,788 | 143 |
| 5 | Lakewood | $1,846 | 143 |
| 6 | Thornton | $1,654 | 239 |
| 7 | Arvada | $1,950 | 135 |
| 8 | Westminster | $1,727 | 103 |
| 9 | Greeley | $1,419 | 131 |
| 10 | Pueblo | $1,293 | 49 |
Need Help Finding an Apartment in Colorado?
Colorado's largest cities have something to offer every renter. Whether you prioritize affordability, outdoor adventure, access to culture, or a vibrant community atmosphere, there's a big (or medium-sized) Montana city waiting to welcome you.
Ready to find your perfect Montana apartment? Head over to our matching tool so you can narrow down your options and find an apartment in Montana that ticks all your boxes. Or click on the links in the descriptions of each city to find listings for that area. Happy hunting!
FAQs about the Largest Cities in Colorado
Where do most people live in Colorado?
The majority of Colorado's population resides along the Front Range, a region stretching from Colorado Springs to Fort Collins. This area includes major cities like Denver, Aurora, and Lakewood, offering a mix of urban amenities and outdoor recreation.
What is the most densely populated city in Colorado?
Denver is the most densely populated city in Colorado. It's a bustling metropolis with a thriving economy, cultural attractions, and a diverse population.
What is the most livable city in Colorado?
Determining the "most livable" city is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, cities like Boulder, Fort Collins, and Colorado Springs often rank high on livability indices due to factors like quality of life, education, job opportunities, and outdoor access.
Where is the cheapest and safest place to live in Colorado?
While Colorado's cost of living has increased in recent years, cities like Pueblo, Colorado Springs, and Greeley tend to be more affordable. As for safety, many Colorado cities boast low crime rates, but it's essential to research specific neighborhoods within each city.
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