Denver in Your 20s: One City, Three Chapters

You know that feeling after graduating college, trying to figure out your next move, hoping your degree somehow unlocks a life you can afford? I always dreamed of moving to Denver, but I didn’t quite have the luxury. Instead, I ended up in Aurora, living in my grandpa’s rental to save on rent. The plan was simple: stack some cash, move downtown, and eventually buy a home.

Denver Skyline at Sunset, Denver, Colorado

What I didn’t expect was to lose my job, collect unemployment, and never land another “real” job again. But that subtle blessing of low rent? It gave me space to breathe, and to finally chase my dream of starting a business.

So, if you’re a recent grad or just navigating your 20s, this blog is for you. I’m breaking down where to live in Denver based on the phase you’re in, because where you live can shape way more than just your commute.

Early 20s - All Vibes, No Sleep

In your early 20s, the most important thing when moving to Denver is finding people who are your same age. For a lot of folks, that means heading to LoDo, Denver’s unofficial party headquarters. You’ve got bars like Tap 14, ViewHouse, Jackson’s, and Dierks Bentley’s where the drinks flow, the patios stay packed, and Thursdays feel suspiciously like Saturdays. This area is built for spontaneous nights out, walkable streets, and just enough chaos to make your parents nervous. Apartments like Ballpark Lofts, The Douglas, and Premier Lofts are popular choices, with studios usually running between $1,500–$1,800. From here, it’s an easy walk to other early-20s playgrounds like RiNo, 16th Street, and my personal favorite, Disco Pig in Larimer Square.

The Douglas Apartments, Denver, Colorado

Mid 20s - Brunch, Dogs, and Day Jobs

With a little seasoning under your belt as a middle-aged 20 something, it’s time to find an area with a bit more stability, and maybe even a long-term partner. Or, hey, maybe just a dog. Either way, the priorities start to shift. You want a little more calm, but still crave that city pulse.

Your job starts demanding more of your time, and suddenly the bar next door feels less charming and more… chaotic, full of early 20-somethings shouting over Sabrina Carpenter remixes. Now you’re choosing patios over parties, green spaces over dive bars, and Trader Joe’s runs over Sunday hangovers.

This is the season where neighborhoods like RiNo, City Park, and the Golden Triangle hit just right. They offer a balance of walkability, access to restaurants, and parks where you can breathe. Rent is still up there, typically $1,300 to $1,800 for a one-bedroom, but you’ve got more money (unless you’re a new real estate agent). Apartments like AMLI, The Edge at City Park, and Kindred are solid options if you're ready for a slightly more grown up chapter (but never too grown up).

AMLI Apartments, RiNo, Denver, Colorado

Late 20s - Peace, Please

Now, I’m currently entering this phase of life, the fast lane is losing its appeal, and the slow, simple life is starting to feel like my jam. At this point, you’ve done all the partying and realized it’s the same thing, different night. Hopefully, you’ve got a serious partner by now, or at least a middle-aged dog.

You still want to be close to the city, but late nights out feel more draining than exciting. Instead, meeting friends for a daytime hang, a walk in the park, or strolling through a farmers market starts to hit differently. Coffee shops replace club lines, and your mindset shifts toward the future, saving for a home (and maybe using GiorDior to help you get there).

Neighborhoods like Sloan’s Lake, Highlands, and Sunnyside tend to attract people in this stage of life. Those looking for community, calm, and a touch of city access without all the chaos. Popular apartments in these areas include Regatta Sloan’s Lake, The Ridian, and Zia Sunnyside, with one-bedrooms typically ranging from $1,500 to $2,000. It’s not cheap, but neither is peace of mind.

Zia Sunnyside Apartments, Denver, Colorado

There’s no perfect formula for where you should live in your 20s, just seasons of life and neighborhoods that match your energy. Whether you're in the thick of happy hours downtown, juggling a job and a dog near City Park, or slowing things down around Sloan’s Lake, your space should work for you, not against you.

I didn’t take the traditional route, and honestly, I’m glad I didn’t. Aurora gave me the ability to dream about the future and be excited for the next place I call home.

So if you're figuring out your next move, know you're not alone. Denver’s got a spot for every version of you and if you ever need help making that move, you know where to find me.