Hilltop: Denver's Best Neighborhoods 2020

2019 rank: 23

Since the 1940s, Hilltop has stood as one of Denver’s grand dame neighborhoods. Its reputation is propped up by well-regarded schools, safe streets, and proximity to Cherry Creek. Housing prices for the residential area’s classic Denver architecture (and pricey new construction) stabilized over the past year, though Hilltop can still maintain its tony title. Its wide, leafy streets and spacious parks call those looking to settle down, and there are enough retail and food options nearby to keep residents satiated.

Population9,510

2019 average sale price$983,055

New listings in 2019408

Neighborhood Rankings

Real Estate Rank55

Schools Score4.3

Crime Rank4

X Factor Score8

How we got these numbers: We utilized the city’s official list of 78 neighborhoods (only 74 had enough data to be included), and ranked them using four variables: home prices, crime data, school 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

A trustworthy neighbor would point you toward Cherry Creek’s abundance of food and drink options. But Hilltop does have some enjoyable joints to call its own: Locanda Del Borgo (Italian), Park Burger, and, our personal favorite when the weather warms, High Point Creamery for luscious scoops in unexpected flavors like coconut crème brûlée.

For your grocery needs, pop into Pete’s Fruits & Vegetables. Pete Moutzouris has owned the shop since 1974. He stocks his shelves with fresh, local produce, prepared foods, and Greek specialties, including a variety of imported feta cheeses.

Get Outside

There isn’t a shortage of green space here. Cranmer Park—once the highest point in Denver—is the star of the neighborhood thanks to its large, open meadow, mountain views, and six-foot sundial (returned to its full glory after a $2 million restoration project was completed in 2018). But you can stretch your legs in Robinson, Burns, or Crestmoor parks, too.

Those looking to finesse their racquet skills can sign up for lessons at Denver Tennis Club. Or simply drop-in for some hard-court fun.

Don’t Miss…

The Denver Greek Festival. This family-friendly celebration has been going strong for more than 50 years. In non-coronavirus times, it’s held in June at Assumption of the Theotokos Metropolis Cathedral of Denver, which sits just across East Alameda Avenue, in Glendale.