Oak Crest South

Tucked away on the northwest side of Denver, Oak Crest South is a snug, inviting suburban community where “you get more bang for your buck,” says Jennifer Johnson, real estate agent with Engel & Voelkers and Colorado native. Along with views of the Rocky Mountains to the west, Johnson says, “The lot sizes there are a little larger. It’s a very tranquil place to live, but you’re still within 30 minutes of downtown Denver.”

Home prices in Oak Crest South hover between $750,000 and $850,000. Once they hit the market, Johnson says, “There will be multiple offers within a few days. That’s mostly because of the central location, but people also like that there are no HOA fees.” The styles and sizes throughout the neighborhood are varied. A collection of ranch homes, Cape Cods, Tudors and split-levels line the unmarked, hilly streets. Despite the style of the house, each share a defining feature. “A lantern sits on top of every mailbox in the neighborhood, which adds a nice, charming aesthetic," says Scott Stang, Realtor at Kentwood Real Estate, who has served the Denver area for 18 years. He adds, “The larger lots range from a quarter- to a half-acre, so that’s certainly part of the appeal. There’s a lot of community pride there, and people try to keep yards well-maintained."

Oak Crest South is an outdoor lover’s paradise. With an extensive trail system and scenic parks nearby, locals are never short of opportunities for some fresh air. Hop on the 13.5-mile Ralston Creek Trail, which winds along its namesake waterway through parks, neighborhoods and wide-open areas with views of the mountains, Tucker Lake and the Arvada Reservoir. Locals say the western side of the trail tends to get a bit hillier and more challenging for hikers and bikers. A much shorter 1.5-mile trail loops around nearby Leyden Creek Park. Dogs are welcome on the pathway, but they have to be leashed. The green space also features a small fishing pond, playground and half basketball court.

Majestic View Park sits less than 2 miles west of Oak Crest South. Take the kids to the playground, shoot hoops on the basketball court or practice your serve on the tennis courts. The real star of the show here is the Majestic View Nature Center, which has a large garden focused on local flora. The center also hosts community events, including lessons where locals can learn Tai Chi, gardening tips or how to make beeswax lanterns. The Apex Center provides even more options for recreation, with an ice arena and indoor pool. Skateboarders can also test new tricks at the Arvada Skate Park next door.

Students are part of the Jefferson County School District, which serves 86,000 students west of Denver. They’ll begin their education at Fremont Elementary School, which earned a B-plus grade from Niche. Once students filter into Oberon Middle School, given a B rating by Niche, the commute will be much quicker. Many will live within walking distance of campus. Arvada West High School, nicknamed A-West by locals, not only has a B-plus rating from Niche but is known for its athletics program. The girl's flag football team has garnered attention after finishing with a perfect 25-0 record and winning a state title in its second year as a pilot program. The goal is that it will become a Colorado High School Activities Association-sanctioned sport for the 2024-2025 school year.

Nearby Ralston Square Shopping Center can serve as a one-stop shop for errands. Roughly 2 miles south of the neighborhood, the complex has a King Soopers for groceries, Floyd’s 99 Barbershop, a UPS store and a few local eateries. Order a pizza or calzone from Randi’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant, or sit down to watch as your meal is made in front of you on the hibachi grill at Mt. Fuji.

Break away from your routine and spend a weekend exploring Olde Town Arvada, less than 5 miles away. The walkable town square showcases Arvada’s historic charm and local shops, restaurants, bars and art galleries. Adjacent to the charming downtown district is a shopping center with big box stores like Michaels, Sam’s Club and Ulta. The hustle and bustle of downtown Denver sits about 13.5 miles away, or a 30-minute drive.

Written By

Sara Ferguson

Photography Contributed By

David Rieck

Video By

Jahlil Harris