Aurora is a bustling city on Denver’s eastern side with suburban convenience and big city amenities. If you’re considering a move to Aurora, there are a few key aspects to weigh. This guide will quickly cover 13 of the most relevant pros and cons of living in Aurora to help you decide if it’s the place for you.
Aurora at a glance
Walk Score: 43 | Bike Score: 53 | Transit Score: 35
Median Sale Price: $470,000 | Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,594
Aurora neighborhoods | Houses for rent in Aurora | Apartments for rent in Aurora | Homes for sale in Aurora
1. Pro: Stunning surroundings
Aurora is home to some of Colorado’s best parks, including Cherry Creek State Park and the Aurora Reservoir. These spaces have miles of trails, picnic areas, boating, and even paddleboarding opportunities, meaning there’s always something to do in Aurora.
2. Con: Limited public transportation
While Aurora has access to the RTD light rail system, public transportation is limited in scope. Many locals rely on personal vehicles for daily commutes, as public transit routes don’t reach all parts of the city. If you don’t own a car, getting around could be a challenge.
3. Pro: Growing job market
Aurora has a growing job market, with large employers like the Anschutz Medical Campus and Raytheon Technologies calling it home. The city’s economic development is promising, with opportunities in healthcare, aerospace, and education. New job seekers will find a range of industries within close reach.
4. Con: Higher cost of living compared to nearby suburbs
Though it’s more affordable than Denver, Aurora’s cost of living can be higher than neighboring suburbs like Centennial or Parker. The median home sale price is slightly above the national median of $428,096. Apartments in Aurora follow a similar trend and go for $1,745 on average. Rent and home prices have been increasing steadily, so finding affordable housing might take some time.
5. Pro: Access to world-class healthcare
With Anschutz Medical Campus and Children’s Hospital Colorado located in Aurora, residents benefit from access to world-class healthcare facilities. For those in the medical profession or anyone prioritizing top-notch healthcare, this proximity is a considerable advantage.
6. Con: Traffic congestion during peak hours
While Aurora isn’t as congested as Denver, traffic can be frustrating during rush hours. Commuters using the major arteries like I-225 and E-470 often experience delays, especially on weekdays. It’s a factor to consider if you have a long commute.
7. Pro: Diverse food scene
Aurora’s diversity is reflected in its range of dining options. You can find everything from Ethiopian at Eatopia Bar and Restaurant to Vietnamese cuisine from Top Pho, meaning there’s always something tasty on the menu.
8. Con: Few walkable neighborhoods
Aurora has tons of cool neighborhoods, but walkability isn’t a strength for most of them. Residents typically need to drive to complete errands or visit local restaurants and entertainment spots, limiting pedestrian-friendly activities compared to larger Colorado cities.
9. Pro: Proximity to Denver
Living in Aurora means easy access to Denver’s attractions, like the Denver Art Museum and Coors Field. Aurora’s advantageous location provides a convenient balance between suburban living and being close to the job and entertainment opportunities found in the larger metro area.
10. Con: Harsh winters
While not one of the coldest cities in the U.S., Aurora’s winters can bring heavy snowfall. The city does handle snow removal well, but commuting can still be difficult. Winter weather may add time to your daily drives, especially if you live in an area that isn’t plowed as frequently.
11. Pro: Family-friendly
Aurora is known for being a family-friendly city with several parks, sports facilities, and highly rated schools. Aurora Public Schools and the Cherry Creek School District both serve the area, offering solid education options.
12. Con: Lacking nightlife
While Aurora has its share of restaurants and family-friendly events, the nightlife and entertainment options are limited. For an upbeat nightlife or more large-scale entertainment options, residents often visit friends living in Denver.
13. Pro: Active community calendar
Aurora hosts a variety of festivals and community events throughout the year. Events like Global Fest celebrate the city’s cultural diversity, and the Fourth of July Spectacular draws large crowds annually. There’s always something happening, which helps foster a strong sense of community.
