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Based on data from Walk Score, Boulder is the most bikeable city in Colorado, with a top-tier Bike Score of 86. This guide analyzes the top ten cities for cycling, providing key metrics like median home sale prices and rent to help you find a community that balances an active lifestyle with housing affordability. Whether you're a daily commuter or a weekend rider, these Colorado cities offer extensive bike lanes, trails, and cyclist-friendly amenities.
What Makes a City 'Bikeable'? A city's Bike Score is a metric developed by Walk Score that measures how suitable an area is for cycling. It is calculated on a scale of 0 to 100 based on four key components: the availability of bike lanes, the steepness of hills, the connectivity of roads to destinations, and the percentage of residents who commute by bicycle. A score of 70 or above is considered very bikeable, meaning most errands can be accomplished on a bike.
1. Boulder, CO: A Cyclist's Paradise
With a Bike Score of 86, Boulder stands out as Colorado's premier city for cyclists. Neighborhoods like North Boulder and University Hill are exceptionally cyclist-friendly, supported by a vibrant cycling community. The city's investment in numerous bike lanes and trails means key attractions are easily accessible without a car. While the median home price reflects a premium market, the quality of cycling infrastructure is a significant factor for those prioritizing an active lifestyle.
2. Fort Collins, CO: Trails and Community
Fort Collins earns its second-place ranking with a Bike Score of 78. The city's network of scenic trails, including the Spring Creek Trail and the Poudre River Trail, connects neighborhoods and reduces dependency on car travel. This infrastructure makes Fort Collins a practical and enjoyable place for cyclists, offering a more balanced housing market compared to Boulder.
3. Denver, CO: Urban Cycling Hub
As Colorado's largest city, Denver provides a robust urban cycling experience with a Bike Score of 72. Areas like Cherry Creek and Washington Park are particularly bikeable, offering safe routes to major destinations such as the Denver Botanic Gardens. The city's continuous expansion of bike lanes makes it a strong option for cyclists seeking an urban environment.
4. Louisville, CO: Suburban Comfort
This Boulder suburb combines suburban living with excellent bikeability. Key streets like Pine Street and Main Street are designed to accommodate cyclists, and the city's proximity to Boulder's extensive trail system is a major advantage. Louisville is ideal for those who want access to top-tier cycling infrastructure with a community-focused atmosphere.
5. Englewood, CO: Accessible Amenities
Englewood offers a Bike Score of 62, with convenient cycling access to parks like Belleview Park and nearby Cherry Creek State Park. Its location as a Denver suburb provides cyclists with a blend of local amenities and easy connections to larger trail networks, presenting a viable option for commuters.
Other Notable Bikeable Cities in Colorado
The following cities also rank highly for their cycling infrastructure, providing additional options for home buyers and renters.
| City | Bike Score | Median Sale Price | Median Rent Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6. Wheat Ridge | 61 | $550,000 | $2,060 |
| 7. Longmont | 58 | $539,000 | $1,910 |
| 8. Broomfield | 58 | $570,000 | $2,320 |
| 9. Lakewood | 56 | $580,000 | $1,800 |
| 10. Northglenn | 56 | $470,000 | $1,670 |
Finding Your Ideal Bikeable Community in Colorado When searching for a home in Colorado, prioritizing your cycling needs can significantly impact your quality of life. Key considerations include:
Choosing a city with a high Bike Score can lead to reduced transportation costs and a healthier lifestyle. Based on our experience assessment, thoroughly researching these factors will help you find a Colorado community that perfectly supports your cycling habits.
