Ken Caryl
A serene suburban oasis with breathtaking mountain views and abundant outdoor activities.
Welcome to Ken Caryl, Colorado
Ken Caryl, Colorado – Community Overview & Real Estate Guide
Located along the foothills of the Front Range, Ken Caryl blends a master-planned community feel with expansive open space and quick access to Denver. Residents enjoy miles of private trails, neighborhood amenities, and scenic views of the Hogback and red rock formations. Strong schools, established neighborhoods, and consistent buyer demand make Ken Caryl a perennial favorite for families and long-term investors.
Overview of Ken Caryl, CO
Ken Caryl offers everyday convenience with foothills living. You’ll find mature tree-lined streets, community centers and pools, equestrian facilities, and quick connections via C-470, Ken Caryl Ave, and Wadsworth Blvd (CO-121). The community borders beloved outdoor destinations—including South Valley Park, Deer Creek Canyon Park, and Chatfield State Park—providing hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing minutes from home. Housing spans classic 1970s–1990s single-family homes to updated estates and townhomes, appealing to move-up buyers and investors alike.
| Key Facts about Ken Caryl, CO | |
|---|---|
| Area | Approx. 10 sq miles |
| County | Jefferson County |
| Established | Master-planned development began in the 1970s–1980s |
| Population (2024) | ~33,000 (Ken Caryl CDP) |
| Nearby Parks & Open Space | South Valley Park, Deer Creek Canyon Park, Chatfield State Park, Hildebrand Ranch Park, Ken-Caryl Ranch Open Space |
| Main Roads | C-470, Ken Caryl Ave, Wadsworth Blvd (CO-121), Kipling Pkwy, US-85 (Santa Fe Dr) |
Whether you’re drawn to Ken Caryl for its trail-rich foothills setting, family-friendly amenities, or stable real estate fundamentals, this community delivers everyday convenience with outdoor access and long-term value—just southwest of downtown Denver.
Location & Connectivity in Ken Caryl
Ken Caryl is a highly desirable foothills community in Jefferson County, just southwest of Denver. Known for its master-planned neighborhoods, abundant open space, and quick highway access, it combines suburban convenience with mountain living. The area appeals to families, professionals, and retirees, offering everything from townhomes and patio homes to spacious single-family residences and custom estates.
The community is car-dependent but benefits from its central location near major corridors. Residents enjoy extensive private trails, community centers, and equestrian facilities, while shopping, dining, and schools are just minutes away. With reliable ride-sharing options and proximity to regional airports, Ken Caryl offers both local and long-distance connectivity.
| Connectivity & Transportation in Ken Caryl | |
|---|---|
Major Highways |
Direct access to C-470, Kipling Pkwy, Wadsworth Blvd (CO-121), and Ken Caryl Ave connects residents quickly to Littleton, Lakewood, Highlands Ranch, and the Denver Tech Center. |
Nearby Communities |
Surrounded by Littleton, Morrison, and Highlands Ranch, with strong ties to the Denver metro area and nearby foothill recreation spots. |
Biking & Walking |
Over 25 miles of private trails for residents, plus connections to South Valley Park, Deer Creek Canyon, and Chatfield Reservoir, popular for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. |
Parking |
Ample residential and community parking, with designated lots at recreation centers, pools, and equestrian facilities. |
Airport Access |
Denver International Airport (DIA) is approx. 45 minutes away, while Centennial Airport is about 30 minutes, serving private and regional flights. |
Ride Sharing |
Uber and Lyft are widely available, though most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting and daily activities. |
Ken Caryl’s balance of suburban convenience, private amenities, and foothills access makes it a premier choice for families and investors. From established single-family homes to townhomes and custom estates, the community offers diverse property options with easy connectivity to the Denver metro area.
Ken Caryl Real Estate Market Trends (2024)
The Ken Caryl real estate market is one of Jefferson County’s most established and sought-after communities. Known for its single-family homes, townhomes, and custom estates, the area offers diverse housing that appeals to families, professionals, and retirees alike. Mature neighborhoods, strong schools, and abundant open space support steady buyer demand, while rental opportunities cater to those seeking foothills living with quick access to Denver.
| Property Type | Median Price (USD) | Price per Sq.Ft (USD) | Average Rent (USD/month) | Rental Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR Townhome | $465,000 | $280 | $2,200 | 5.6% |
| 3BR Single-Family Home | $685,000 | $300 | $3,000 | 5.2% |
| 4BR Family Home | $875,000 | $320 | $3,600 | 4.9% |
| Custom / Luxury Estate | $1.2M+ | $345 | $4,800+ | 4.5% |
Source: Jefferson County MLS, Q2 2024. Figures represent average market conditions and may vary by neighborhood, property type, and amenities.
Lifestyle in Ken Caryl
Life in Ken Caryl blends foothills beauty with suburban convenience. Set in unincorporated Jefferson County just southwest of Denver, the community offers extensive private trails, parks, and club amenities while staying close to Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Lakewood, and the Denver Tech Center. From hiking South Valley Park and Deer Creek Canyon to neighborhood events at the Ranch House, residents enjoy an easygoing, outdoors-forward lifestyle.
Location in Ken Caryl
Located in Jefferson County along the Front Range foothills, Ken Caryl sits just west of C-470 with quick access to Littleton, Lakewood, the Denver Tech Center, and mountain corridors.
Community in Ken Caryl
Friendly and outdoors-oriented with active HOAs. Neighborhoods like Ken Caryl Ranch, The Valley, and North Ranch feature community events, pools, tennis, and miles of private trails.
Dining in Ken Caryl
Casual eateries and breweries nearby, with broader options at Aspen Grove and Historic Downtown Littleton. Local favorites include Breckenridge Brewery, Living the Dream, and family restaurants along Kipling & Wadsworth.
Education in Ken Caryl
Served by Jeffco Public Schools with nearby preschools and enrichment programs. Popular options include area elementaries feeding to Ken Caryl Middle and Dakota Ridge or Chatfield Senior High.
Housing in Ken Caryl
Mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and custom properties—many backing to open space with foothill views. Gated enclaves and larger lots appear in select areas; values benefit from limited supply and amenities.
Transportation in Ken Caryl
Easy commuting via C-470, Kipling, Wadsworth, and US-285. Mineral Light Rail Station is a short drive; most errand runs are car-convenient with sidewalks and multi-use paths for local travel.
Climate in Ken Caryl
Four seasons with 300+ sunny days: warm summers, colorful falls, snowy winters, and mild springs—great for hiking, biking, and winter recreation nearby.
Amenities in Ken Caryl
Close to King Soopers, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and Costco (Littleton/Highlands Ranch). Residents enjoy rec centers, pools, tennis, and an extensive private trail network.
Demographics in Ken Caryl
Primarily families and retirees with a strong cohort of hybrid/remote professionals; investor interest exists for homes near trail access and community amenities.
Pros in Ken Caryl
Foothill scenery, abundant trails and open space, strong community amenities, respected schools, and convenient access to both city and mountains.
Cons in Ken Caryl
Car-dependent lifestyle, limited nightlife in the immediate area, some HOA fees, and occasional weekend traffic on C-470 and mountain corridors.
Outdoor Activities in Ken Caryl
Hike South Valley Park and Deer Creek Canyon, paddle and boat at Chatfield State Park, ride the Ken Caryl private trail system, and golf at Deer Creek and The Meadows nearby.
Ken Caryl’s lifestyle pairs natural beauty and community amenities with easy regional access—ideal for buyers seeking quiet, trail-rich living close to Denver’s job centers.
Amenities in Ken Caryl
Ken Caryl is a well-rounded foothills community offering residents convenient access to healthcare, shopping, worship centers, and pet-friendly services—while enjoying extensive trails and open space. Below is an overview of the core amenities that support daily life in the neighborhood. Property types in Ken Caryl include single-family homes in Ken Caryl Ranch, custom and estate homes in The Valley and North Ranch, plus a selection of townhomes and condos near main corridors.
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Hospitals & Clinics in Ken Caryl
Littleton • Lakewood • Highlands RanchResidents have access to high-quality healthcare within a short drive of Ken Caryl, including ER services, specialty care, and numerous urgent care and family practices.- Littleton Adventist Hospital (Littleton): Major medical center with emergency care and specialties
- UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital (Highlands Ranch): Full-service hospital with ER
- St. Anthony Hospital (Lakewood): Level I trauma center and advanced specialties
- Local Clinics & Urgent Care: Practices along Ken Caryl Ave, Kipling & Wadsworth corridors
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Supermarkets & Shopping in Ken Caryl
Ken Caryl Ave • Southwest Plaza • Aspen GroveDaily needs and destination retail are close by, from neighborhood centers to regional malls—convenient for single-family neighborhoods, townhomes, and nearby condo communities.- King Soopers & Safeway: Multiple locations for everyday groceries
- Costco (Littleton) & Trader Joe’s (Littleton): Bulk and specialty options
- Southwest Plaza: Regional shopping, dining, and services
- Aspen Grove: Outdoor retail center with restaurants and boutiques
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Places of Worship in Ken Caryl
Community & NearbyFaith-based institutions in and around Ken Caryl provide a range of congregations and programs serving families, students, and seniors.- St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Parish (Littleton): Parish with robust ministries and education
- West Bowles Community Church (Littleton): Community-focused worship and events
- Interfaith Centers (Littleton & Highlands Ranch): Synagogues, churches, and fellowships
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Pet Services in Ken Caryl
Dog Parks • Vets • GroomersKen Caryl embraces Colorado’s pet-friendly lifestyle with local trails, nearby off-leash areas, and a variety of clinics and care providers.- Chatfield State Park Off-Leash Area: Large fenced dog park with water access
- David A. Lorenz Dog Park (Littleton): Popular off-leash option a short drive away
- Veterinary Clinics: Practices along Ken Caryl Ave, Kipling & Wadsworth
- Pet Groomers & Daycare: Multiple providers near Ken Caryl Marketplace and Southwest Plaza
Schools in Ken Caryl
Families in Ken Caryl are served by the Jefferson County School District (Jeffco Public Schools), one of the largest and most diverse districts in Colorado. The community offers a range of highly rated public schools, preschools, and private education options, making it ideal for families at every stage of learning.
Schools emphasize academic achievement, extracurricular enrichment, and access to nearby foothills for outdoor learning. The mix of established single-family homes, townhomes, and patio homes attracts many families seeking stable neighborhoods with excellent school access.
| School / Preschool | Type | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shaffer Elementary School | Public (K–5) | Within Ken Caryl |
Neighborhood elementary with strong ratings, STEM programs, and active parent-teacher involvement.
|
| Deer Creek Middle School | Public (6–8) | 5–10 min drive |
Offers advanced coursework, arts, and athletics as part of Jeffco Public Schools.
|
| Chatfield Senior High School | Public (9–12) | 10 min drive |
Highly regarded high school with AP classes, strong sports programs, and arts offerings.
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| Primrose School of Ken Caryl | Private Preschool | Local |
Accredited early education program emphasizing balanced learning and social-emotional growth.
|
| Montessori Peaks Academy | Charter / Preschool–Grade 6 | 10–15 min drive |
Montessori-based learning with individualized instruction and outdoor engagement.
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- School District: Jefferson County School District (Jeffco Public Schools)
- Focus: Strong academics, STEM programs, athletics, and outdoor-based enrichment
- Demographics: Family-friendly community with high engagement in education and extracurricular activities
Real Estate Investment Opportunities in Ken Caryl
Ken Caryl offers compelling angles for buy & hold rentals and fix & flip projects, supported by foothills scenery, community amenities, and convenient access to C-470 and metro job centers. This section highlights rental market insights, long-term appreciation potential, and flipping opportunities—all focused exclusively on Ken Caryl.
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Rental Market Overview in Ken Caryl
Low Vacancy • Amenities-Driven DemandRentals in Ken Caryl are supported by trail access, pools/tennis, and proximity to C-470. Demand comes from families and professionals seeking quiet, foothill-side living with easy commutes.
Property Type Typical Rent (mo) Notes 2–3BR Townhome/Condo $2,300–$3,000 Low-maintenance; near Ken Caryl Ave corridors 3BR Single-Family (Ranch/Two-Story) $2,800–$3,600 Popular with long-term tenants; yards & trails 4BR Single-Family / Executive Homes $3,600–$4,600+ Valley & North Ranch; views/open space -
Buy & Hold Investment Potential in Ken Caryl
Stable Appreciation • Strong HOA AmenitiesKen Caryl shows steady long-term value due to limited new supply, respected schools, and extensive community amenities. Neighborhoods like Ken Caryl Ranch, The Valley, and North Ranch attract multi-year tenants.
- Townhomes/condos near retail & C-470 offer easy leasing and lower upkeep
- 3–4BR single-family homes generate durable rents and family tenant profiles
- HOA amenities (trails, pools, tennis) support retention and reduce vacancy
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Fix & Flip Potential in Ken Caryl
1970s–1990s Stock • Outdoor Living UpgradesOpportunities center on classic Ranch-area homes needing modernization and selective updates in Valley/North Ranch properties. Typical renovation budgets $40,000–$140,000 with renovated values often $750,000–$1.1M+ depending on size, finishes, and location.
- Update kitchens/baths, flooring, windows, and mechanicals for best ROI
- Enhance outdoor living (decks/patios) and energy efficiency to lift ARV
- Prioritize lots backing to open space or trail access
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Wholesaling in Ken Caryl
Selective • Off-Market DrivenWholesaling exists through original-owner 1970s–1990s homes and light-to-moderate rehabs. Investor buyers seek clear value-add or quick-turn potential in well-located streets.
- Target dated single-family on interior lots and cul-de-sacs
- Occasional townhome/condo assignments near amenities
- Exit to flippers or long-term buy-and-hold investors
Thinking About Moving to Ken Caryl?
Ken Caryl delivers the same rare balance buyers seek—quiet foothills living with swift access to Denver, Littleton, and the southwest tech corridor. Miles of private trails, community centers, pools, and nearby canyon parks make it ideal for those who want scenery and recreation without sacrificing convenience.
The community’s housing mix includes single-family homes, townhomes, patio homes, and a limited number of condos. Mature streetscapes, strong schools, and steady appreciation create long-term confidence for homeowners and investors alike.
Relocating to Ken Caryl means joining a friendly, trail-first neighborhood where weekend hikes, neighborhood events, and outdoor living are part of everyday life.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ken Caryl
- How much does it cost to live in Ken Caryl?
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- Townhomes: $420K–$580K
- Single-family homes: $650K–$850K
- Patio homes & luxury estates: $900K–$1.2M+
- Is Ken Caryl a good place for investment properties?
- Yes. With consistent appreciation, strong schools, and family-driven demand, Ken Caryl is ideal for long-term buy & hold investors, fix & flip projects in older homes, and select rental opportunities.
- What is the rental market like in Ken Caryl?
- Rentals typically range from $2,300–$4,200/month, with demand driven by families and professionals. Low vacancy is common, particularly for 3–4BR single-family homes near trails and schools.
- What types of properties are common?
- Ken Caryl features a balanced mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and patio homes, with a limited number of condos. Many homes are from the 1980s–2000s, offering opportunities for updates and modernization. Outdoor living spaces, large yards, and foothill views are common selling points.
- What makes Ken Caryl unique compared to other Denver suburbs?
- Its location at the base of the foothills, extensive private trail system, family-focused amenities, and proximity to both outdoor recreation and urban job centers set it apart as one of Jefferson County’s most desirable neighborhoods.
Ken Caryl combines foothill beauty with suburban convenience, offering lasting value for both homeowners and investors. From family-friendly townhomes to luxury patio homes, the community’s mix of property types, schools, and trails ensures a high quality of life in one of Denver’s most sought-after areas.
Market Updates
Market Updates
