This growing city, situated about 20 miles northeast of Denver, is ideal for families, retirees, and more. Whether you’re planning your next career move or are looking for a family-friendly destination where you can raise your kids, there are many reasons to live in Brighton.

Affordable Cost of Living in Brighton

According to the May 2024 Cost of Living Index as performed by the Economic Research Institute, Brighton ranked 41st out of 83 cities in Colorado when ranked from most expensive to least expensive. While Brighton’s food and housing costs can be more expensive than the national average, transportation and health costs are often more affordable.

Brighton's home prices are also largely affordable, which will appeal to anyone planning on buying a home. Numerous housing options are available, including rental homes, executive housing, and master-planned communities.

Employment Opportunities in Brighton

Since Brighton is just 20 miles from Denver, you can easily commute to the city. In Denver, you’ll find numerous employment possibilities with large employers such as:

• Centura Health
• Colorado State
• University of Colorado
• HealthONE Hospitals
• Comcast
• Wells Fargo Bank

But you don't necessarily have to leave Brighton to find employment. Several industries drive Brighton’s economy, including energy, agriculture, retail, finance, and service. There are also several major employers within the city:

• Vestas
• Platte Valley Medical Center
• Adams County Government
• O’Neal Flat Rolled Metals
• Super Walmart
• Baker Hughes

A Large School System

Thanks to school district 27J Schools, families with children will have numerous school options in Brighton. The district encompasses 18 elementary schools, 13 middle schools, and seven high schools. There are also three K-8 charter schools, one K-5 charter school, and one alternative school.

While 27J Schools offers 14 preschool options, parents can choose from several other preschools for younger children, including:

• ABC Learning Center & Preschool
• Advance Montessori Meadowlark
• Brighton Montessori
• Firstart Preschool
• Kiddie Academy of Brighton
• My Little World Preschool
• Zion Lutheran School

If families of older kids are looking for a solution outside of the public school district, they can choose from five private schools in Brighton:

• Brighton Adventist Academy
• Elmwood Baptist Academy
• Foundations Academy
• Pathway Christian Academy
• Zion Lutheran School

Post-secondary students can attend the Front Range Community College Brighton Center or explore schools and universities in Denver, such as the University of Denver, the University of Colorado Boulder, and MSU Denver.

Outdoor Activities in Brighton

Brighton’s location offers fantastic views of nature, and the city is designed with a heavy focus on access to green spaces. In fact, Brighton encompasses more than 960 acres of parkland, over 27 miles of trails, 20 athletic fields, and 19 playgrounds. Residents and visitors can reconnect with nature year-round and enjoy activities including hiking, bird watching, cross-country skiing, and more.

Barr Lake State Park is a particularly popular destination in Brighton. The park features an 8.8-mile trail that circles the lake, suitable for bicycling, hiking, and horseback riding. There are numerous wildlife viewing stations where birders can watch for the more than 350 species of avians that have been seen in the park. The lake’s calm waters also appeal to fishing enthusiasts, kayakers, canoeists, and more. An ADA-accessible fishing pier means people of all abilities can fish, and the Barr Lake boardwalk provides a beautiful view of the wildlife reserve. There’s even an archery range with 12 shooting lanes and heavy-duty targets.

In the summertime, families can also enjoy sunny days at the Brighton Oasis Aquatic Park. It features two waterslides, a lazy river, a climbing wall, and much more.

Vibrant Culture

Brighton’s vibrant culture means there are numerous activities for the whole family to enjoy. Museums and art exhibitions attract artists from throughout Colorado. Farms and farmers markets provide regular opportunities to buy fresh produce and other goods, and nearly 30 restaurants, including chains like Texas Roadhouse and family-owned establishments, are located throughout the city.

Brighton is also all about community, as evidenced by the number of events they hold all year long. Keep an eye on their community events page to find out when you can attend annual events such as Summerfest, Festival of Lights Parade, Concerts in the Park, and more.

Learn About Moving to Brighton

Plan your move to Brighton with Brookfield Residential’s Brighton Crossings Community. With everything important to you right outside your front door, Brighton Crossings is the perfect community for you to gain the luxury of time saved and time enjoyed.

Head over to the Venture Center & Water Park, where you’ll find an award-winning fitness facility, flex rooms, plenty of gathering space, a catering kitchen, and two pools. For a next-level workout, check out the Crossing Fitness Center, complete with state-of-the art equipment, a bike track, kids’ room, basketball court, and amazing western views. 

Our sales team is excited to help you find the best place to call home at Brighton Crossings. Explore the community and connect with our sales team when you’re ready to learn more. We’ll be expecting you!