Largest cities in Colorado

Colorado, with its majestic Rocky Mountains and vibrant cities, is a state known for its natural beauty and active lifestyle. With a population of around 5.8 million, it ranks as the 21st most populated state in the U.S. Colorado's population has been steadily increasing, reflecting its attractiveness as a place to live, work, and play. Colorado is bordered by Wyoming to the north, Nebraska to the northeast, Kansas to the east, Oklahoma to the southeast, New Mexico to the south, Utah to the west, and Arizona at the Four Corners region. The state comprises approximately 270 cities and towns, each contributing to its dynamic character. The largest cities in Colorado are key to the state's economy and cultural vibrancy.

Living in Colorado offers a high quality of life, with a strong emphasis on outdoor recreation, a healthy lifestyle, and a robust economy. The state's moderate population density allows for a balance between vibrant urban living and access to vast natural landscapes. Colorado's economy is diverse, with strengths in industries such as technology, aerospace, and tourism. The state's steady population growth reflects its ongoing appeal and sustainable development. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Colorado, derived from census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, provides a detailed look at Colorado cities by population, highlighting the state's most populous and influential urban centers.

Denver Population: 715,878 Livability Score: 72

Area Size: 397 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,677 Med. Household Income: $72,661

Living in Denver, CO, known as 'The Mile High City,' offers a vibrant urban experience combined with stunning natural beauty. Located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a large city renowned for its outdoor recreational opportunities, thriving arts scene, and innovative tech industry. Major nearby cities like Boulder and Colorado Springs enhance its appeal as a central hub in the region. Denver's blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and modern innovation creates a distinctive living experience.

Colorado Springs Population: 471,686 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 505 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,409 Med. Household Income: $67,719

Aurora Population: 379,434 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 398 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,372 Med. Household Income: $67,723

Aurora, CO, known as 'The Gateway to the Rockies,' offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. Located in central Colorado, Aurora is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Denver and Centennial enhance its status as a central point in the region. Aurora's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Fort Collins Population: 166,069 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 145 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,902 Med. Household Income: $70,528

Fort Collins, CO, known as "The Choice City," is a vibrant community with a rich history and a high quality of life. Located in northern Colorado, Fort Collins is approximately 65 miles north of Denver and 45 miles south of Cheyenne, WY. This medium-sized city is celebrated for its excellent recreational opportunities, beautiful parks, and strong sense of community.

Lakewood Population: 155,733 Livability Score: 69

Area Size: 111 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,582 Med. Household Income: $71,233

Lakewood, CO, known as "Gateway to the Rockies," is a vibrant city with a rich history and a high quality of life. Located just west of Denver, Lakewood is approximately 10 miles from downtown Denver and 20 miles east of Golden. This medium-sized city is celebrated for its beautiful parks, recreational opportunities, and thriving arts community.

Thornton Population: 144,186 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 93 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,016 Med. Household Income: $80,732

Thornton, CO, known as 'The City of Parks,' offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and modern urban amenities. Located in Adams and Weld counties, Thornton is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Denver (10 miles) and Boulder (25 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Thornton's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Arvada Population: 120,229 Livability Score: 85

Area Size: 100 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,090 Med. Household Income: $92,669

Arvada, Colorado, known as "The Garden Spot of Colorado," is a charming suburban city located just northwest of Denver. With its picturesque landscapes, historic charm, and vibrant community, Arvada offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's commitment to preserving its natural beauty and fostering a strong sense of community makes living in Arvada a delightful experience.

Westminster Population: 114,832 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 82 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,636 Med. Household Income: $76,378

Westminster, Colorado, known as "The Big City with a Small-Town Feel," is a vibrant suburban community located between Denver and Boulder. With its scenic beauty, strong economy, and family-friendly atmosphere, Westminster offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of suburban charm and urban amenities makes living in Westminster an attractive option for families and professionals.

Pueblo Population: 111,776 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 139 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,990 Med. Household Income: $42,902

Pueblo, Colorado, known as "The Steel City," is a historic and vibrant community located along the Arkansas River. With its rich industrial heritage, diverse cultural scene, and strong sense of community, Pueblo offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes living in Pueblo an attractive option for families and professionals.

Centennial Population: 111,331 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 77 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,746 Med. Household Income: $109,767

Centennial, Colorado, known as "A City with Spirit," is a vibrant suburban community located in the Denver metropolitan area. With its strong economy, excellent schools, and family-friendly atmosphere, Centennial offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of suburban tranquility and urban amenities makes living in Centennial an attractive option for families and professionals.

Full list of the largest cities in Colorado

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Denver	715,878	397	$72,661	72
2	Colorado Springs	471,686	505	$67,719	79
3	Aurora	379,434	398	$67,723	73
4	Fort Collins	166,069	145	$70,528	81
5	Lakewood	155,733	111	$71,233	69
6	Thornton	144,186	93	$80,732	81
7	Arvada	120,229	100	$92,669	85
8	Westminster	114,832	82	$76,378	73
9	Pueblo	111,776	139	$42,902	74
10	Centennial	111,331	77	$109,767	80
11	Boulder	108,777	68	$72,279	77
12	Greeley	107,445	124	$57,537	71
13	Highlands Ranch	107,017	63	$127,093	69
14	Longmont	95,864	71	$79,140	81
15	Loveland	81,774	89	$72,515	76
16	Broomfield	69,444	85	$101,206	85
17	Castle Rock	65,176	89	$113,585	80
18	Grand Junction	62,218	102	$54,570	79
19	Commerce City	55,891	92	$82,939	68
20	Parker	55,460	56	$114,802	83
21	Littleton	46,208	33	$76,375	71
22	Northglenn	39,201	19	$71,104	79
23	Security-Widefield	38,645	34	$72,175	59
24	Brighton	38,355	55	$74,813	64
25	Englewood	34,840	17	$66,399	75
26	Dakota Ridge	34,655	24	$101,248	79
27	Ken Caryl	33,815	25	$97,344	76
28	Pueblo West	32,842	182	$73,608	63
29	Wheat Ridge	31,889	24	$63,333	76
30	Fountain	30,240	58	$68,194	60
31	Lafayette	27,952	24	$85,909	90
32	Erie	27,157	50	$124,480	76
33	Columbine	25,892	17	$105,089	77
34	Windsor	23,679	63	$103,933	82
35	Evans	22,128	26	$64,007	71
36	Clifton	20,783	16	$46,394	66
37	Golden	20,391	26	$80,338	76
38	Durango	19,413	36	$65,424	67
39	Montrose	19,396	47	$52,534	70
40	Louisville	19,342	21	$116,073	80
41	Sherrelwood	19,082	6	$64,404	71
42	Cimarron Hills	18,981	16	$71,342	68
43	Cañon City	16,369	32	$49,963	67
44	Fort Carson	16,243	22	$52,144	60
45	Welby	15,372	10	$67,594	67
46	Greenwood Village	15,100	21	$127,500	63
47	Sterling	14,421	20	$40,956	63
48	Johnstown	14,357	35	$115,069	72
49	Fruita	14,068	20	$50,800	72
50	Federal Heights	13,537	5	$49,291	77

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Colorado, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.