/ Neighborhood Guide2024 rank: 8
Dependability has long been the allure of this south Denver neighborhood: It remains one of the city’s safest areas, notching the lowest crimes per capita for the fourth year in a row, and Slavens K-8 School consistently earns A+ grades. Bike lanes lining three sides of the ’hood as well as the High Line Canal Trail (more on that below) provide the outdoor access Denverites cherish. Families are drawn to the district’s suburban feel—you’ll often spot kids riding their two-wheelers or scooters along Wellshire’s wide streets—and the area’s eight percent jump in average home sale prices is proof of the continuing appeal of its midcentury ranches and new builds.
Neighborhood Rankings
How we got these numbers: We utilized the city’s official list of 78 neighborhoods (only 73 had enough data to be included), and ranked them using four variables: home prices, crime data, school rankings, and an X factor score that accounts for things like access to open space, proximity to public transportation, and restaurant and shopping options. For more on our methodology, return to the main page.
Your Itinerary
Eat & Drink
Wellshire is the definition of a restaurant desert. But just past its southwestern border, in Englewood, you’ll find comfort food at the Whiskey Biscuit, Asian cuisine inspired by family recipes at Zomo, and affordable Mexican fare at Cochino Taco. In July 2024, Frasca Hospitality Group (of Tavernetta and Pizzeria Alberico fame) opened its fifth eatery, Osteria Alberico, just outside of Wellshire, on the other side of University. Pop in for elevated rustic Italian fare. There are plenty of other offerings in nearby neighborhoods, but you’ll need your own wheels to get there, as transit is limited.
Get Outside
Loosen up before your 18-hole round at the public Wellshire Golf Course on the chipping and putting greens. Or, if you’d rather stroll than swing, hit the section of the High Line Canal that skirts the edge of the course and Skeel Reservoir. Bonus: Mamie D Eisenhower Park and its stellar rec center are right next door in University Hills.
Spots to Eat
About This Neighborhood
- Berkeley
- Hilltop
- Country Club
- Wellshire
- Southmoor Park
- Congress Park
- University Park
- South Park Hill
- Belcaro
- West Highland
- North Park Hill
- Regis
- Cheesman Park
- Washington Park
- Capitol Hill
- Washington Park West
- Central Park
- University
- Rosedale
- Speer
- Sloan’s Lake
- Hampden South
- Platt Park
- Cory-Merrill
- Highland
