Best Neighborhoods in Colorado Springs for Families With Kids
When it comes to finding the perfect place to raise a family, Colorado Springs is a gem that balances suburban tranquility with urban convenience. With its stunning mountain views, family-friendly neighborhoods, and abundant outdoor activities, the city offers a variety of options that cater to families of all sizes. Whether you’re looking for top schools, safe streets, or proximity to parks, here’s a guide to the best neighborhoods for families in Colorado Springs.
1. Briargate – *The All-American Family Neighborhood*
Briargate stands out for its family vibe, boasting a strong sense of community and a plethora of amenities. This neighborhood is part of the highly-rated Academy School District 20, with schools like Briargate Elementary and Challenger Middle School receiving excellent reviews.
- Parks & Playgrounds: Briargate Park and Northwind Park offer great playgrounds and sports facilities.
- Walkability & Safety: Known for its safe streets and well-maintained sidewalks, Briargate is very walkable, making it easy for families to explore.
- Housing: Typical homes range from $400,000 to $700,000, with many single-family houses and a few townhomes.
- Family Essentials: You’ll find grocery stores like King Soopers and health facilities such as Pediatrics of the Rockies nearby.
- Commute: The neighborhood provides easy access to major roads for a quick commute to local businesses.
- Best For: Families with young kids and parents seeking a community-focused environment.
Takeaway: Briargate’s family atmosphere, coupled with great schools and parks, makes it an ideal choice for young families.
2. Broadmoor – *Historic Charm Meets Modern Day Living*
The Broadmoor area combines luxury with a welcoming atmosphere. Known for its exquisite homes, this neighborhood is served by Cheyenne Mountain School District, which includes Broadmoor Elementary and Cheyenne Mountain High School.
- Parks & Playgrounds: Bear Creek Regional Park offers extensive trails and picnic areas.
- Walkability & Safety: It’s a safe neighborhood with friendly neighbors who often walk their dogs or jog.
- Housing: Homes in Broadmoor are more upscale, with prices typically ranging from $600,000 to over $1 million.
- Family Essentials: Close by, you can find the Broadmoor Towne Center with family-friendly restaurants like The Natural History Museum café and healthcare options like Children's Hospital Colorado.
- Commute: It’s slightly farther from the city center, but the scenic route is worth it.
- Best For: Families wanting a touch of elegance with historical significance.
Takeaway: Broadmoor offers a unique mix of luxury living and family-friendly amenities, ideal for families looking for a safe and upscale environment.
3. Woodland Park – *Nature Lovers’ Paradise*
A bit outside of Colorado Springs, Woodland Park is perfect for families who appreciate a close-knit community with breathtaking scenery.
- Parks & Playgrounds: The town has stunning access to nearby Pikes Peak and Eleven Mile Canyon for camping and nature exploration.
- Walkability & Safety: While more spread out, it’s a very safe area where parents feel comfortable allowing their kids to play outside.
- Housing: Prices can range from $300,000 to $500,000 for charming single-family homes.
- Family Essentials: Facilities like Pediatric Urgent Care and daycare centers are available, along with local dining options that cater to families.
- Commute: While it’s a bit further from the city center, working parents should consider the scenic drive as a trade-off for a peaceful home life.
- Best For: Families who love outdoor adventures and a quieter lifestyle.
Takeaway: Woodland Park is ideal for families who seek outdoor activities and tight community ties, away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
4. Old Colorado City – *Rich History with an Artistic Flair*
Old Colorado City is notable for its artistic vibe and cultural history. It lies within the Colorado Springs School District 11, featuring schools like Jackson Elementary.
- Parks & Playgrounds: Enjoy Old Colorado City Historic District Park, great for picnics and community events.
- Walkability & Safety: It’s very walkable, with a strong artsy community feel and safety awareness.
- Housing: Homes here are charming, with prices generally from $350,000 to $600,000.
- Family Essentials: Close to various shops and restaurants, also access to local pediatric care provides reassurance for families.
- Commute: Very close to downtown, making commuting quite convenient.
- Best For: Families who value creativity, history, and an engaging community.
Takeaway: Old Colorado City is perfect for families looking for culture and a vibrant neighborhood feel with accessible schools.
5. Mountain Shadows – *Community Spirit in Nature*
Mountain Shadows is a neighborhood full of families and young professionals. It also falls under the Academy School District 20, with access to schools like Mountain Vista Community School.
- Parks & Playgrounds: Ute Valley Park offers extensive trails and recreational facilities for active families.
- Walkability & Safety: A very safe area with playgrounds located within walking distance.
- Housing: Prices range from $350,000 to $700,000 with a mix of modern homes and older houses.
- Family Essentials: Nearby grocery stores and Urgent Care for Kids make it easy to manage day-to-day needs.
- Commute: Its location makes the daily commute to downtown manageable.
- Best For: Young families and professionals looking for balance between nature and suburban life.
Takeaway: Mountain Shadows is excellent for families who appreciate the outdoors while wanting a tight-knit community feel.
6. Cheyenne Canon – *The Great Outdoors at Your Doorstep*
Cheyenne Canon is known for its stunning mountain views and provides plenty of space for families to engage with nature and community.
- Parks & Playgrounds: Cheyenne Canyon Park for hiking, swings, and community events.
- Walkability & Safety: Generally low traffic and a friendly atmosphere makes it safe for children to play.
- Housing: Homes usually range from $400,000 to $800,000.
- Family Essentials: Proximity to essential services, including local daycare centers and health facilities.
- Commute: A bit further from the main city, making it more of a retreat.
- Best For: Families who prioritize outdoor activities and enjoy a serene environment.
Takeaway: Cheyenne Canon offers families a unique lifestyle centered around nature and adventure, making it a wonderful choice for those who love the outdoors.
Summary Comparison of Neighborhoods
When narrowing down options, consider the following factors:
- Young Kids: Briargate and Mountain Shadows are excellent choices due to great schools and parks.
- Teens & Young Adults: Broadmoor and Old Colorado City feature high schools with robust programs.
- Large Families: Woodland Park offers larger homes and is family-oriented.
- Commute-Ease: For close city access, both Old Colorado City and Briargate are favorable.
For families making relocation decisions, these neighborhoods each offer unique benefits. Exploring options based on your family’s lifestyle, needs, and future aspirations can help you find your perfect match in Colorado Springs.
FAQs
1. What are the best schools in Colorado Springs for families?
The Academy School District 20 is known for top schools like Briargate Elementary and Challenger Middle School. Additionally, Cheyenne Mountain School District offers quality education as well.
2. What parks are best for kids in Colorado Springs?
Popular parks include Ute Valley Park, Briargate Park, and Bear Creek Regional Park which all have playgrounds and family-friendly amenities.
3. Are there good childcare options in Colorado Springs?
Yes, there are various daycare and childcare centers available, such as Bright Horizons and numerous home-based childcare providers throughout the city.
4. What types of family activities are available?
Families can engage in youth sports leagues, local community events, and outdoor activities like hiking and biking around Colorado Springs’ scenic landscapes.
For more specific insights about living in Colorado Springs, feel free to check out our [Colorado Springs city guide](/co/colorado-springs) for additional resources and details!
For those thinking about [moving to a new city](/moving-to-a-new-city), our [relocation cost calculator](/tools/colorado-relocation-cost-calculator) can help you budget your move.
Explore and enjoy your new adventure in the beautiful Colorado Springs!