Let the numbers do the talking.
Boulder, CO vs Highland, CO
Boulder, CO vs Highland, CO: What the data shows
Boulder, CO is in Boulder, CO while Highland, CO is in Highland, CO — both in the same state. On home prices, Highland, CO is the more affordable option at $692,700 median — $2,500 less than Boulder, CO's $695,200. WYLT rates Boulder, CO as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Highland, CO as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Boulder, CO has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Highland, CO has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Boulder, CO has Low flood risk and Highland, CO has Low flood risk.
Highland, CO is the more walkable neighborhood. Boulder, CO scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Highland, CO's 55/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Boulder, CO has the higher school rating — Boulder, CO rates 8.9/10 and Highland, CO rates 8/10.
| Category | Boulder, CO | Highland, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $695K | $693K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $89K | $110K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 | 55/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 20/100 ✓ Better transit | 10/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 47 min | 8 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.9/10 ✓ Better schools | 8/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesOutdoor enthusiastsRemote professionals | Families with kids looking for good schoolsProfessionals who commute to DenverHome buyers who prioritize stability over affordability |
Bottom line
For families looking for good schools in an easy commute to Denver, Highland is the better choice, even though it’s pricey. If you prioritize outdoor activities and are willing to take on a car-centric lifestyle, Boulder might be worth considering, but with its sky-high cost of living, it's not the most budget-friendly option. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your specific needs and whether you value convenience and safety over affordability.
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