What About Brighton or Commerce City?? (Denver, Arvada: best cities, houses, theater)

[ZLC]

Just wondering if these were "good" areas. Housing is much more affordable. I was mentioned in another one of my posts that I am hoping to find a little town near Denver that is affordable/nice, and has good schools.

[DenverAztec]

I think there is already a conversation thread about Commerce City? Might want to type that in the 'search' area?

[2bindenver]

Everything is totally subjective. Brighton is more of a bedroom community, whereas CC can be suburban or industrial.

There are trade offs you need to consider. Sometimes looking for the biggest house for the money means a longer commute. Sometimes it means busing the kids to school, sometimes it means there is little to no recreation/shopping/parks/whatever...and you have to drive to get there.

Only you can decide what is best for your situation and family.

[kelcolo]

The "new" part of CC is actually Brighton schools. It is also VERY close to the aiport so you may get airport noise. All newer homes. The "original" Commerce City has some OK areas and some that are questionable. I was bussed to school there 20+ years ago and didn't have issues, but people I talk to that stayed have left are are doing their best to get out.

[bright]

How is the child care situation (before and after school) in the Brighton/CC area? What does good quality care cost?

[Katiana]

Originally Posted by ZLC

Just wondering if these were "good" areas. Housing is much more affordable. I was mentioned in another one of my posts that I am hoping to find a little town near Denver that is affordable/nice, and has good schools.

No offense, but that's what everyone wants. Brighton is farther out. I work in a dr's office in Louisville, and a lot of our patients live in Brighton. Point being, you may have to travel farther for things. There is starting to be some shopping in that area, but it's still a ways to say, a Macy's. Commerce City is an old area that is starting to grow. I don't have to use child care any more, so I don't know the costs. I'd say it's probably roughly the same in those areas as anywhere else in the metro area. Someone who is currently using can tell you more than I can.

[Dlehster]

My brother and I are moving this summer to Colorado. I have been researching a lot lately but would like the opinions of locals. What are some of the best cities north of Denver to live in? Affordable nice houses (3 bedroom/2 bath for 160,000-175,000 or so), nice people and about 30 minutes or so from the center of Denver? We have been looking into Brighton, Longmont, Broomfield and Thornton. We are also wondering what some good ways to meet younger people are (20-35)? Activities, attractions and events?


Thanks!

[2bindenver]

Define "affordable?"

30 minutes or less to the city center? Downtown?

Elaborate please.

[NickMan7]

It may be difficult to find a single family for $160,000 that is in good condition, but they're certainly out there. You might also include Westminster and Arvada in your search as there is some affordable housing in those cities, as well.

Searching craigslist for properties should be very helpful.

[DenverAztec]

Denver Metro is very 'outdoor' oriented. What types of activities are you into? There are tons of clubs and groups to join for just about anything outside; skiing, water rafting, hiking, camping, hunting. On a nightclubing level, check out Westword.com and the clubs in LoDo (lower downtow) or SoCo (South of Colfax). Capitol Hill is vibrant with folks your age and a few places on East Colfax are becoming hang outs as well. There are a ton of annual festivals in downtown, most in the warmer months. Concert venues for large audiences; Pepsi center, Well Fargo theater in the Convention Center, the Filmore on Colfax and in the summer - Red Rocks. Tell us more about yourself and your brothers interest and we can give you more advice. Best Wishes!