1. Jefferson Park

Jefferson Park is an interesting little slice of Denver, nestled just south of LoHi, east of Sloan’s Lake, and west of I-25 and Downtown. This quaint area sits right in the middle of the action in central Denver but somehow flies under the radar. The neighborhood itself doesn’t have a whole lot in it other than houses and a park, the aptly named Jefferson Park. However, one of the big selling points of Jefferson Park is its proximity to other bustling neighborhoods. Even though it lacks its own array of bars, restaurants, and shops, it’s just a short walk to LoHi, which is teeming with these amenities. Homes in Jefferson Park are a mix of old and new—everything from old ranches and Victorians to ultra-modern townhomes with rooftop balconies and mountain views. Prices here are significantly cheaper.

The median home price in Jefferson Park stands at $722,000, whereas LoHi’s median is around $925,000. That’s a substantial difference for just being a stone’s throw away from each other.

2. North Park Hill

North Park Hill is distinctly north of 23rd Avenue, with MLK sometimes marking a third sub-neighborhood, Northeast Park Hill. South Park Hill has been a hotspot for the last few years, comparable to Denver’s most elite areas like Wash Park. The median home price in South Park Hill is a whopping $947,000, whereas North Park Hill comes in at $596,000. That’s a $350,000 difference! While North Park Hill homes are generally smaller and less updated, it represents a neighborhood in transition with a lot of renovations and new builds on the horizon.

North Park Hill boasts plenty of bars, restaurants, and other local amenities, including: The Park Hill Bookstore, Honey Hill Cafe, and The Cherry Tomato Restaurant. Plus, there’s the newer development at 29th and Fairfax featuring coffee shops, parks, and breweries like Long Table Brewing.

3. Rosedale

Rosedale is another neighborhood that doesn’t get the attention it deserves. It’s right next to Platte Park, a neighborhood known for its high-dollar homes. Despite being adjacent, Rosedale is much more affordable with a median home price around $700,000 compared to Platte Park’s $950,000. Rosedale offers more parks and green spaces than Platte Park, and you can still walk, bike, or scooter to the Old South Pearl Business District. The neighborhood integrates a variety of amenities while maintaining its charm and affordability.

4. Virginia Village

Virginia Village is a southeast Denver neighborhood that flies under the radar. With a median home price of $649,000, it’s surprisingly affordable compared to other Denver neighborhoods. If you’re into mid-century modern architecture, this is the place to be. Virginia Village boasts numerous mid-century homes and offers an excellent suburban feel while still keeping you connected to the city. While not teeming with nightlife, Virginia Village does feature some hidden gems:

Cook Park and Recreation Center: Ideal for families

Esther’s on Holly: A local favorite

Cherry Creek Trail: Perfect for outdoor activities

5. LoDo (Lower Downtown)

LoDo, short for Lower Downtown, is the heart of Denver. Some might argue that this area has seen better days, especially post-COVID. But, I believe its decline is greatly exaggerated. With a median home price of $522,000, you can find some amazing deals, especially in the realm of condos. Smaller condos dominate the area, but being in the epicenter of a major American city with such affordability is rare. LoDo remains a vibrant place to live and visit. Highlights include:

Coors Field: Adding a sporty charm to your downtown experience

Larimer Square: Despite losing some tenants, still a hotspot

Union Station: Home to some of Denver’s best restaurants and vibes

These are the five most underrated neighborhoods in Denver. Each offers unique benefits, and, in many cases, you get more bang for your buck compared to other areas. Whether you’re looking for high-dollar aesthetics, family-friendly spaces, or just a great deal, these neighborhoods have something to offer.