2020 rank: 49

This oft-overlooked hamlet continues its habit of ping-ponging on and off this list (it ranked 49 last year and 15 in 2019). Hampden’s winding streets and expansive ranch homes—averaging in the low-$400,000s—appeal to young families and folks working in the nearby Denver Tech Center. Conveniences are limited to mostly big-box offerings along East Hampden Avenue, but proximity to the Southmoor light rail station makes trips to the central city a breeze. Plus, suburbia lite has one big perk: lots of green space.

Demographics—Get to know your neighbors

The median age of Hampden residents is 38.45 years old. Almost half of the adult (25 and older) population holds a bachelor’s degree or higher. Forty-eight percent of neighborhood commuters report the trip takes 15 to 30 minutes. When it comes to housing, there’s a relatively even split, with 51 percent of all units renter-occupied. Single households slightly eke out families. The average household income is $60,789.

Population 20,182
2023 Median Sale Price $427,906

Neighborhood Rankings

Real Estate Rank 10
Schools Score 3.3
Crime Rank 37
X Factor Score 5

How we got these numbers: We utilized the city’s official list of 78 neighborhoods (only 73 had enough data to be included), and ranked them using four variables: home prices, crime dataschool rankings, and an X factor score that accounts for things like access to open space, proximity to public transportation, and restaurant and shopping options. For more on our methodology, return to the main page.

Your Itinerary

Eat & Drink

Two of the city’s longstanding Jewish delis are located in Hampden: New York Deli News, where the matzah balls are the size of the bowls they’re served in, and the Bagel Deli & Restaurant, once featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

Find traditional Indian and Nepalese cuisine at local chain Yak & Yeti. India’s Restaurant is another solid option for those craving the country’s rich, saucy food.

Kung Fu Tea’s satisfying boba milk tea is part of a larger trend of bubble tea shops opening in the Centennial State.

Get Outside

There are no excuses for staying inside in Hampden. James A Bible Park has it all: baseball and softball fields; basketball and tennis courts; a football field; a playground; and access to the High Line Canal Trail. But the neighborhood also encompasses Theodore A Hutchinson Park, Golden Key Park, Hampden Heights Park, Paul A Hentzell Park, and—and!—Babi-Yar Park.

Kennedy Golf Course, just outside Hampden’s boundaries, has a nine-hole, par-three course for those who don’t want to commit to a full 18-hole round.

Activities

Test your brain power at King’s Escape Room. Or sit back and relax at either of the two movie theaters in neighboring Hampden South, Regal Cinemas Continental 10 & RPX and Elvis Cinemas Tiffany Plaza.

Spots to Eat

India’s Restaurant

New York Deli News

Benihana

Tap & Burger Belleview Station

View All Restaurants in Hampden