Thinking of Denver area or Raleigh from Phoenix? (Highlands Ranch, Broomfield: schools, live in)

[jenlyn]

My husband and I have 2 small boys and are looking to get out of this horrid Phoenix heat..We have been to NC 2x and just love it..We are also looking into the Denver area. So far, Ive kind of researched Broomfield, then Highlands Ranch. I love the idea of 4 seasons..Just like the idea that Raleigh doesnt get as cold as Denver. But, wouldnt enjoy the humidity in the summer as much. Im originally from NJ, my husband from England..Just wondering if anyone has some advice?? Thanks!!

[sillygal]

If u cannot take the heat of Phoenix, which is a dry heat.......chances are u won't be able to handle the humid heat here in NC...... Just my opinion! Esp when it sounds like u are trying to get away from the heat.

[2bindenver]

Highlands Ranch is a great place to raise children. today's humidity is 4%! Douglas County schools are highly rated by the state, and HR is a community with 4 recreation centers, outdoor pools, parks, bike paths...light rail opens on the southeast side in November. 5th graders ski free.

[COgirl]

If you are considering the Denver area, I would definitely choose Douglas County. I live in Parker, and that is a very kid-oriented area. The schools are fantastic (I am a teacher in one!) Broomfield has some nice areas, but also some bad areas. Denver is not very cold in the winter. There is a lot of snow in the mountains, but little by us. Although it's great to go skiing in that snow! I'm not sure you will beat the heat in the summer. This week there have been several 95 degree and above days. Due to the altitude, you really feel it pound on you, and drought is always an issue.

[jenlyn]

Yes, I did hear that it gets pretty warm in Denver in the summers. Well, 95 doesnt sound as bad as 110-115! So, I think after you have lived through a few summers in Phoenix, you should be able to handle heat. I lived in Vegas too! Does the Denver area have a distinct Fall and Spring? I just love, love the Fall! Thanks!! Jen

[patrickmich]

there is not a lot of comparison between denver and phoenix, except both are considered western cities. I long for phoenix in the winter. I have lived there before.
I live in Denver now. I have been to north carolina many times. I prefer the open
space and the panorama of landscape of colorado to the tight terrian of north carolina.
After a while in north carolina I start feeling clostrophobic. But the fact that you are both from the northeast originally is a factor to consider. I personally do not mind humidity. I like to sweat in the summer. It feels good. I am originally from Illinois.
I think you will get four seasons in raleigh, too. It might be more subtle, but nonetheless. I think Colorado is beautiful in the winter. All the trees are bare,
which allows you to see the entire landscape. The white topped mountains are always
present. We also have a lot of farmland in Colorado, which I love. It's a tough call between the two. I think the more advice you summon, the more confused and
aggitated you will become. Good luck.
ps.. oh yeah, it can get hot some days in Denver, but no matter how hot it gets
in the summer, you can ALMOST always count on a dry storm kicking up in the
later afternoon blocking the hot sun. By evening the temperatures plummet
because of our elevation. It is never warm at night.

[Katiana]

A distinct fall and spring? Well, more of a fall than a spring. Though obviously it is warmer in May than in Jan, MOST days. My daughter put it this way once: we have two seasons here - almost summer and almost winter. That is a good assessment.