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Moving to Aurora CO
Moti Perez

Moving to Aurora Colorado? ⛰ Everything You Need to Know About Living In Aurora CO

Last Updated On: 26th May 2025, 03:33 pm

Thinking about moving to Aurora, Colorado? Once home to only 2,000 people in 1928, Aurora has blossomed from Denver’s shadow to become a vibrant community and one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Today, living in Aurora, CO, offers residents both suburban and urban amenities, making it an ideal place for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. As such, Aurora is a good place to live.

As Colorado’s third-largest city, Aurora is known for its stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, diverse cultural attractions, and abundance of outdoor activities. Let’s dive into what makes living in Aurora CO so special and why this thriving city is a great place to live for people of all ages and families of all sizes.

Where Is Aurora?

What county is Aurora CO in? Aurora, Colorado, is situated in the central part of the state, primarily within Arapahoe County, but it also extends into Adams and Douglas counties. Located just east of Denver, Aurora is about a 10-mile drive from the busy downtown area. If you’re looking to visit Colorado Springs, it’s about 70 miles to the south, while the upscale suburb of Greenwood Village is only 13 miles away. Although Las Vegas is quite a distance, around 750 miles to the southwest, Aurora’s convenient location makes travel to many destinations a breeze.

Nestled near the incredible Rocky Mountains, Aurora boasts an altitude of around 5,400 feet. Aurora’s altitude means that newcomers should be mindful of altitude sickness. The city offers a wealth of open space and recreational opportunities, including six public golf courses for enthusiasts to enjoy.

Aurora Information

  • Aurora county: Arapahoe, Adams, Douglas
  • Aurora area: 163.588 square miles
  • Aurora zip code: 80010-80247
  • Aurora area code: 303, 720
  • Aurora elevation: 5,403 feet
  • Aurora time zone: Mountain Time Zone (UTC -6 and -7)
  • Closest airport to Aurora: Denver International Airport (DEN), 12 miles away

Aurora Population & Demographics

 

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What is the population of Aurora? Aurora has experienced significant growth, with its population sitting at 386,261, an 18.8% increase since 2010. As Colorado’s third-largest city and the 52nd-most-populous city in the United States, Aurora is a part of the Denver metropolitan area, which boasts a population of 2.96 million.

Living in Aurora CO offers an inclusive environment, appealing to many who are considering moving to Aurora Colorado. This populous city is known for its diverse population, making it one of the most diverse cities in the state. The racial and ethnic composition is 52.2% White (42.8% non-Hispanic), 16.6% Black or African American, 13.3% identifying as two or more races, 6.0% Asian, and 1.1% American Indian. Additionally, 21% of Aurora’s residents are foreign-born.

Additional Aurora Colorado Demographics:

  • Sex ratio: 50% female, 50% male
  • Median age: 35.1
  • Median household income: $81,395 (compared to Colorado average of $89,302)
  • Educational attainment: 86.9% high school degree (or higher), 31.8% bachelor’s degree (or higher)
  • Notable people from Aurora: Actor Zachery Ty Bryan, fashion designer Andrew Kwon, comedian Dan Soder

Transportation

While having a car when living in Aurora CO is helpful, it isn’t a necessity. The Regional Transportation District (RTD) provides comprehensive bus and rail transit services connecting Aurora to the broader Denver metro area. For those considering moving to Aurora, Colorado, the city’s strategic location offers easy access to surrounding regions, thanks to major highways like Interstate 70, Interstate 225, and the E-470 beltway.

In 2017, Aurora became the first city in Colorado to introduce a dockless bike-sharing program, reflecting the city’s commitment to sustainability. With hundreds of miles of bike trails, residents can easily navigate the city on two wheels. As one of the most bike-friendly cities in CO, Aurora is easy to navigate without a vehicle.

Aurora Colorado Cost of Living

 

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Is Aurora Colorado expensive? The cost of living in Aurora Colorado is slightly above the national average. One of the best ways to analyze the cost of living in the area is to take a look at the Cost of Living Index, which is a number that is used to compare the expenses in different cities. The Cost of Living Index in Aurora is 123.7, meaning that living in Aurora CO is 23.7% more expensive than the national average of 100.

Although the average cost of living in Aurora Colorado is higher than the national average, it is still below the Denver average. The Denver Cost of Living Index is 127.6, making it 3.9% more expensive than Aurora. As such, moving to Aurora Colorado may be a more affordable alternative to Denver. 

According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four living in Aurora CO would need to earn $127,095 per year to live comfortably in the city. This comes out to about $10,591 per month. The MIT Living Wage Calculator explains that two working adults with two children living in Aurora CO would need to earn at least $33.71 per hour to support their family without slipping below the poverty line.

Typical Aurora Living Expenses

  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $20.00
  • Cappuccino: $4.20
  • Gallon of milk: $4.25
  • Carton of eggs: $2.80
  • Bottle of wine: $20.00
  • Gallon of gas: $3.25
  • Fitness club (monthly): $12.00
  • Average Aurora utilities per month: $173.33

Source: Numbeo

It is also important to consider the taxes that Aurora residents are required to pay. After moving to Aurora Colorado, you will need to pay income, property, and sales tax. According to Colorado.gov, Colorado has a flat income tax rate of 4.4%. When living in Aurora Colorado, property taxes are handled by Arapahoe County. According to SmartAsset, the average property tax bill in Aurora CO is $2,850. When it comes to the sales tax rate in Aurora, you can expect to pay 3.25% in sales tax.

Before moving to Aurora Colorado, you’ll also want to consider the cost of real estate in the area. Luckily, Aurora is a hot spot for real estate. As one of the best real estate cities in CO, Aurora has several houses and apartments to choose from.

Aurora Colorado Real Estate | Average Rent & Home Prices

Can you find affordable housing when living in Aurora CO? According to Redfin, the average home price in Aurora Colorado is $482,750. This median home price is slightly above the national average of $439,000, but well below the national average of $601,000 and the Denver average of $620,000. As such, moving to Aurora Colorado can be a great affordable alternative to Denver.

When living in Aurora CO, you’ll find several wonderful real estate options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for single-family homes, townhomes, or apartments, Aurora has it all. Downtown Aurora is more fitting for renters, while places like northwest Aurora or south Aurora are better for those who want more space. Some popular townhome complexes in Aurora include the Townhomes at Tollgate Creek (near the Tollgate Creek Trail), Dayton Station Townhomes, and Advenir at Del Arte Townhomes.

Are you more interested in finding apartments for rent in Aurora CO? According to RentCafe, the average rent in Aurora Colorado is $1,767, which is slightly above the national average of $1,713. The most affordable neighborhoods in Aurora include Del Mar Parkway and North Aurora, where the average rent is $1,423 per month. The most expensive neighborhoods include East Quincy Highlands, Murphy Creek, and Traditions, where the average rent is $2,279 per month. According to the 2022 Rental Affordability Report, it is more affordable to rent than to buy real estate in Aurora.

Neighborhoods in Aurora Colorado | Best Places to Live in Aurora

Before moving to Aurora Colorado, you’ll want to find a great place to settle down. These are just a few of the best Aurora neighborhoods.

Tallyn’s Reach

Tallyn’s Reach is easily one of the best areas to live in Aurora CO. This is a great place to live for those who enjoy outdoor activities, as it is close to top-rated attractions like the Piney Creek Trail and Saddle Rock Golf Course. Tallyn’s Reach is also conveniently located near E-470, so residents can easily access top Denver attractions such as the Denver Zoo and Denver Botanic Gardens.

 

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Downtown Aurora

Downtown Aurora is a popular place to live for young professionals. This neighborhood is home to many of the city’s top apartment complexes, and the walkable streets are perfect for those who prefer not to drive. Downtown Aurora is home to some of the best medical care in the state, including Children’s Hospital Colorado and The Medical Center of Aurora.

Seven Hills

Located in northwest Aurora, Seven Hills is one of the best places to live in the city. Seven Hills is one of the safest neighborhoods in Aurora CO, with a crime rate that is 18% below the national average. Seven Hills is popular among families and is close to top-rated schools like Arrowhead Elementary School and Sunrise Elementary School.

Aurora CO Weather & Climate

Are you curious about the Aurora climate? Aurora features a semi-arid climate, with four distinct seasons. The summers in the city are typically quite hot, with an average daily high temperature of 88ºF. During the spring and summer months, residents living in Aurora can enjoy outdoor activities in the warm sun. The coldest month in the city is December, with an average low Aurora temperature of 22ºF.

Does it snow in Aurora Colorado? It sure does! The Aurora annual snowfall is 61.7 inches, which is higher than the United States average of 27.8 inches. These cold winter days don’t stick around for long, however, as the city sees 243 sunny days per year.

Aurora Restaurants

There are plenty of amazing restaurants in Aurora CO to choose from. Whether you are searching for delicious Mexican food, classic American fare, or on-the-go fast food, Aurora has something for you. These are the best restaurants in Aurora CO.

 

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Things to Do in Aurora CO

Curious about the best things to do in Aurora Colorado? Luckily, there are several fun things to do in Aurora for people of all interests. These are just a few of the best things to do when living in Aurora CO. 

Top Aurora Colorado Attractions

  • Plains Conservation Center: Get to know the local community at the Plains Conservation Center. The Plains Conservation Center is a natural area with hiking trails and public events, perfect for those who are living an active lifestyle.
  • Aurora Hills Golf Course: This is one of the best public golf courses in Aurora. This course is 18 holes and also features an on-site restaurant and golf shop.
  • Jewell Wetlands Park: Aurora ranks high among outdoor lovers, and you can see why after visiting this attraction! This habitat for diverse wildlife features walking trails, a butterfly garden, and picnic areas.
  • Lava Island: Grab the kids and head over to Lava Island, a children’s amusement center with playgrounds, trampolines, and more.
  • Visit Aurora: Want to learn more about your new city? Stop by Visit Aurora for expert information on the area.
  • Sky Zone Trampoline Park: This fun trampoline park offers zip-lining, sports, and more.
  • Sand Creek Park: In this city greenspace, you’ll find hiking and biking trails as well as nature viewing opportunities.

 

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Aurora Entertainment & Arts

  • Aurora Symphony Orchestra: Stop by the Aurora Cultural Arts District to catch a show from the Aurora Symphony Orchestra. The Aurora Symphony Orchestra plays shows all year round at The Aurora Fox Arts Center.
  • Morrison Nature Center: This nature preserve features displays, interactive toys, nature books, and live animals.
  • Denver Art Museum: Located just a short drive away, the Denver Art Museum features Western and regional art across two large buildings.
  • The Soiled Dove Underground: This concert hall is one of the most iconic event venues in the area. Stop by to enjoy live music nearly every day of the week.

Aurora Museums

  • Aurora History Museum: The Aurora History Museum dives into the history of Aurora with several fun interactive exhibits.
  • Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum: Calling all space lovers! This air and space museum is a must-see for anyone living in Aurora CO.
  • Four Mile Historic Park: This museum contains a barn with farm animals, guided tours, and a log cabin from the 1800s.
  • Molly Brown House Museum: Molly Brown was one of the few passengers to survive the sinking of the Titanic. You can now tour her house, featuring artifacts from the Victorian era.

Aurora Parks & Outdoors

  • Cherry Creek State Park: Cherry Creek State Park is one of the most popular city parks in Aurora. Cherry Creek State Park features opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, and more.
  • Aurora Reservoir: The Aurora Reservoir is easily one of the best things to do in Aurora. Featuring over 800 acres of water, the Aurora Reservoir is perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating.
  • Springhill Park Trail: The Springhill Trail is one of the city’s most popular hiking spots.
  • Great Plains Park: This 54.5-acre park offers visitors a splash pad, a playground, sports fields, and hiking trails.

 

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Shopping in Aurora

  • Stanley Marketplace: Stanley Marketplace is one of the most popular shopping centers in Aurora. Here, you’ll find plenty of local food and retail vendors to explore.
  • Village on the Park: This outdoor shopping mall features popular retailers like Old Navy, TJ-Maxx, and Five Below.
  • The Marketplace Hampden Town Center: Stop by this shopping center to enjoy both retail and grocery shopping.

Map of Things to Do in Aurora CO

Sports

After moving to Aurora Colorado, you will not have any sports teams to cheer for inside of the city. However, if you drive 10 miles into Downtown Denver, you will find plenty of amazing options. The sports teams in Denver include:

 

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Aurora Crime Rate

Is Aurora Colorado safe? One of the best ways to get a good idea of safety when living in Aurora CO is to take a look at the crime rates. Here’s a quick overview of the Aurora Colorado crime rate.

  • Overall crime rate: 4,291 crimes per 100,000 people (31.7% higher than state average and 82.9% higher than national average)
  • Violent crime rate: 900 crimes per 100,000 people (112.7% higher than state average and 132.1% higher than national average)
  • Property crime rate: 3,391 crimes per 100,000 people (19.7% higher than state average and 73.2% higher than national average)

Although the crime rates are higher than the state and national averages, Aurora is a safe place to live. Many sections of Aurora see little to no crime at all, with most of the crime concentrated in just a few small areas. Additionally, steps are being taken every day to lower the city’s crime rates. According to The Sentinel, Aurora’s property crime rate fell 11.6% from 2022 to 2023, while the violent crime fell 14.5%.

When living in Aurora CO, you will be protected by the Aurora Police Department, which has 770 officers on the force. You can access crime statistics at any time on the police department’s Online Transparency and Accountability Portal.

Economy & Aurora Jobs

Are you moving to Aurora Colorado for a new career? Luckily, the job market in Aurora is thriving! With several job opportunities in both Aurora and Denver, there is something for everyone when living in Aurora CO. In fact, the Denver metropolitan area has the 18th-largest economy in the United States. Some of the major employers in Aurora include:

Additionally, you can find opportunities for future job growth nearby in Denver. Some of Denver’s top employers include Arrow Electronics, Coors Brewing Company, DigitalGlobe, and PostNet.

Living in Aurora CO is also a great idea for small business owners or entrepreneurs. According to the Longmont Leader, the U.S. Small Business Administration recently recognized the Aurora-South Metro Small Business Development Center (SBDC) as the winner of the SBDC Excellence and Innovation Center award. It was also reported that during the 2023 year, the Aurora-South Metro SBDC served more than 8,000 clients and trained more than 18,500 people, helping small businesses create and retain over 3,122 jobs.

According to PayScale, the average salary in Aurora Colorado is $77,000 per year. If you are on the hunt for jobs in Aurora CO, then check out the city job board or search for ‘jobs in Aurora CO’ on Indeed.

Healthcare

When living in Aurora CO, you will have access to several top-notch healthcare facilities. One of the most popular facilities among Aurora residents is the University of Colorado Hospital, which was ranked by US News as the #1 hospital in Colorado and the #2 hospital in the country for adult specialties. This facility is part of the larger Anschutz Medical Campus, which also houses the esteemed Children’s Hospital Colorado. This pediatric hospital is recognized nationally for its specialized care and innovative treatment for children.

In addition to these institutions, Aurora is served by Davita Healthcare Partners, a leading provider of kidney care services. Davita’s presence in Aurora ensures patients with chronic kidney disease receive the best possible care. Kaiser Permanente, another key player in the city’s healthcare system, offers a wide range of medical services to residents living in Aurora CO.

Aurora Schools

When it comes to education, living in Aurora CO offers a variety of excellent options. The city’s high-quality schools contribute to the quality of life for Aurora residents. The city is served by several school districts, such as Aurora Public Schools and the Cherry Creek School District. Aurora Public Schools serves around 37,000 students across 58 great schools, while the Cherry Creek School District serves around 55,000 students across 69 public schools.

A few top schools in these districts include Cherry Creek High School, Smoky Hill High School, and Grandview High School. These are a few of the best high schools in Aurora and are consistently recognized for their outstanding academic achievements.

 

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Looking for private schools in Aurora CO? When living in Aurora CO, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Some of the best schools in Aurora include Regis Jesuit High School, a highly regarded Catholic school known for its college preparatory curriculum, and Aurora Quest K-8, which offers a challenging learning environment for gifted students.

Higher education is well-represented in Aurora, with several great colleges and universities nearby. One of the top schools in Aurora is the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. This institution is a hub for medical education and research, attracting students and professionals from all over the world. This university also contributes to future job growth in the city, producing highly-trained medical professionals.

For those seeking flexible and affordable options, the Community College of Aurora is an excellent choice. This local community college offers a wide range of programs, from associate degrees to vocational training.

After moving to Aurora Colorado, you can enjoy the Aurora Public Library system.

Aurora Utilities & DMV Change of Address

Before moving to Aurora Colorado, you’ll want to make sure you transfer your utilities. Here are just a few providers to contact before moving to the area.

If you need to change your address or obtain a new driver’s license when living in Aurora CO, then take a look at the Colorado Department of Revenue Division of Motor Vehicles website.

Thinking of Moving to Aurora Colorado?

Is moving to Aurora Colorado in your future? Living in Aurora CO offers plenty of amazing benefits for families of all backgrounds and sizes. If you need assistance relocating, then get in touch with our Aurora and Denver movers at Move 4 Less. Whether you need local movers, long distance movers, or storage services, our team is here for you. Give us a call today at (702) 381-1200 to get started with a free estimate.

Moti Perez
As a cofounder and business owner of Move 4 Less, my passion is to deliver the highest quality of moving services in the industry. My varied background has thought me the value of seeking new challenges, working hard, keeping customers happy and focus on success. In 2002, I got my first taste in the moving industry, working for Nationwide Moving&Storage. For a little over two years I worked in a number of frontline and management positions, learning the ins and outs of the moving industry. The business is now one of the largest moving companies in the Las Vegas metropolitan area. I also had some time in between to open, manage and sell few restaurants and retail business. I continue to invest in Realestate and any other interesting business opportunity.
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