Largest cities in Colorado

Access hyperlocal data to help you make a confident and informed decision.

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: 739,923 Livability Score: 69

Area Size: 397 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,826 Med. Household Income: $108,588

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: 481,855 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 505 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,474 Med. Household Income: $100,946

Aurora Population: 393,102 Livability Score: 72

Area Size: 398 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,560 Med. Household Income: $100,255

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: 172,375 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 145 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,083 Med. Household Income: $102,976

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: 159,208 Livability Score: 67

Area Size: 111 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,705 Med. Household Income: $104,648

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: 147,633 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 93 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,092 Med. Household Income: $117,910

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: 122,800 Livability Score: 82

Area Size: 100 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,173 Med. Household Income: $137,732

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: 118,461 Livability Score: 70

Area Size: 82 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,733 Med. Household Income: $112,775

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: 114,377 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 139 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,129 Med. Household Income: $63,966

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: 113,795 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 77 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,847 Med. Household Income: $162,732

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	739,923	397	$108,588	69
2	Colorado Springs	481,855	505	$100,946	78
3	Aurora	393,102	398	$100,255	72
4	Fort Collins	172,375	145	$102,976	80
5	Lakewood	159,208	111	$104,648	67
6	Thornton	147,633	93	$117,910	78
7	Arvada	122,800	100	$137,732	82
8	Westminster	118,461	82	$112,775	70
9	Pueblo	114,377	139	$63,966	74
10	Centennial	113,795	77	$162,732	79
11	Boulder	112,777	68	$106,816	77
12	Greeley	110,935	124	$86,987	68
13	Highlands Ranch	110,471	63	$187,643	68
14	Longmont	99,360	71	$118,222	77
15	Loveland	84,816	89	$109,858	73
16	Broomfield	71,202	85	$150,880	83
17	Castle Rock	66,953	89	$167,871	78
18	Grand Junction	64,338	102	$81,389	79
19	Parker	57,520	56	$168,231	82
20	Commerce City	57,428	92	$123,627	66
21	Littleton	47,719	33	$114,118	69
22	Northglenn	40,627	19	$106,911	78
23	Security-Widefield	39,796	34	$107,330	60
24	Brighton	39,406	55	$109,316	60
25	Englewood	35,724	17	$97,216	74
26	Dakota Ridge	35,381	24	$148,767	78
27	Ken Caryl	35,038	25	$143,430	75
28	Pueblo West	33,798	182	$108,832	63
29	Wheat Ridge	32,757	24	$93,435	72
30	Fountain	31,205	58	$99,641	58
31	Lafayette	28,546	24	$128,882	85
32	Erie	28,201	50	$186,042	73
33	Columbine	26,527	17	$155,901	76
34	Windsor	24,324	63	$155,711	80
35	Evans	22,678	26	$95,906	69
36	Clifton	21,554	16	$67,810	66
37	Golden	21,021	26	$121,700	75
38	Durango	20,083	36	$95,621	68
39	Montrose	19,970	47	$78,700	69
40	Louisville	19,767	21	$169,902	79
41	Sherrelwood	19,531	6	$96,273	70
42	Cimarron Hills	19,384	16	$106,154	69
43	Fort Carson	16,843	22	$79,023	61
44	Cañon City	16,810	32	$75,562	66
45	Welby	15,922	10	$98,831	66
46	Greenwood Village	15,570	21	$188,442	64
47	Sterling	14,909	20	$61,515	61
48	Johnstown	14,655	35	$170,089	69
49	Fruita	14,366	20	$75,268	73
50	Federal Heights	14,024	5	$73,880	76

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.