Trying to choose between LoHi and the Highlands for your next home? You are not alone. Both offer central Denver living with very different vibes and housing options. In this guide, you will learn what types of homes you will find, how prices typically compare, and the lifestyle tradeoffs that matter day to day. Let’s dive in.

LoHi vs. Highlands overview

Locals often use “Highlands” as an umbrella for several adjacent neighborhoods north and northwest of downtown. LoHi sits closest to downtown with newer infill and higher density. Potter Highlands, West Highland, and the Highlands Square area stretch farther northwest with more historic single‑family blocks and tree‑lined streets. Boundaries vary by source, so it helps to decide which pockets fit your lifestyle and commute.

• LoHi: short walk to Union Station and downtown, many condos and townhomes, lively dining and nightlife.
• Highlands (Potter, West, Highlands Square): more single‑family homes and bungalows, quieter evenings, boutiques and restaurants along neighborhood corridors.

What homes you will see

LoHi homes

You will see a heavy mix of modern condos, loft conversions, and townhomes. Many buildings offer rooftop decks and city views, often with limited private yard space. Mixed‑use buildings and live/work lofts cluster along commercial streets.

Highlands homes

You will find more detached single‑family homes with historic character, plus townhomes and selective infill. Expect Victorian and Queen Anne facades, Denver Squares, and Craftsman bungalows on residential blocks. Lot sizes vary, with some alley access and detached garages.

Quick style ID guide

• Victorian or Queen Anne: asymmetrical fronts, decorative trim, bay windows or turrets, ornate porches.
• Denver Square or Foursquare: boxy two‑story, simple lines, central stair, often brick.
• Craftsman or Bungalow: low‑sloped gables, wide front porches, exposed rafters, natural woodwork.
• Rowhouse or brownstone: attached fronts on narrow lots with shared walls, more common near LoHi corridors.
• Contemporary infill: clean lines, big windows, rooftop decks, modern floor plans and garages.

Prices and value today

LoHi typically commands a premium for proximity to downtown, views, and newer construction. The broader Highlands offers a wider spread that includes both high‑end historic homes and more moderately priced single‑family options. In many cases you trade space and yard in LoHi for walkability and nightlife. Some pockets of the Highlands deliver similar price per square foot to LoHi, while other blocks offer better yard size and value.

A useful rule of thumb: in recent years, LoHi listings trend toward upper mid‑six figures into the seven‑figure range for premium condos and single‑family options, while the rest of the Highlands ranges from mid or upper six figures to comparable seven‑figure historic homes. Always check live MLS data for current medians, price per square foot, days on market, and HOA dues because Denver’s market shifts with seasonality and interest rates.

What your money often buys:

• LoHi: newer condos or townhomes with modern finishes, structured parking or single‑car garages, rooftop decks, and strong dining access. Smaller private yards are common.
• Highlands: more single‑family choices with porches and yards, plus historic charm. Infill townhomes appear near commercial streets. You may find larger lots at similar or slightly lower price per square foot depending on the block.

Walkability and transit

• LoHi: highest walkability to downtown jobs, Union Station, restaurants, and breweries. You can walk to transit and entertainment quickly. Driving access to I‑25 and downtown is convenient, with street parking varying by time of day.
• Highlands: still very walkable to coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants, with quieter evenings. RTD bus routes serve the area. Union Station is a short drive or rideshare for light rail access.

Noise, nightlife, and parking

• LoHi: busier nights, more foot traffic, and event activity. Expect more competition for on‑street parking. Many buildings include garages or assigned spaces.
• Highlands: calmer residential blocks, with on‑street parking still tight near popular corridors. Detached garages off alleys are common in older homes.

Yards and outdoor space

• LoHi: many properties trade yard space for rooftop decks and views. Pocket parks help if you want green space without yard work.
• Highlands: more small to medium yards and tree‑lined streets. Lot sizes vary due to historic patterns and some teardowns.

Schools and parks overview

The Highlands area is served by Denver Public Schools, with private and parochial options nearby. Always verify school assignments and enrollment policies directly with district tools before you decide. You will find pocket parks and playgrounds across both areas, quick access to Sloan’s Lake from parts of the Highlands, and downtown greens like Commons Park a short hop from LoHi.

Which fits your priorities

Pick LoHi if you want:

• A short walk to downtown and Union Station.
• Newer condos or townhomes with rooftop decks.
• An active dining and nightlife scene.

Pick the Highlands if you want:

• Historic single‑family homes with porches and yards.
• Quieter streets with neighborhood shops and cafes.
• A broader range of lot sizes and potential value per square foot.

Buyer checklist for tours

Set your criteria first

• Commute time and transit access you need.
• How much yard or outdoor space you want.
• Parking requirements and garage preferences.
• Property type: condo, townhome, or single‑family.
• Budget including HOA dues for condos or townhomes.

Smart MLS filters to use

• Draw custom maps around LoHi and the specific Highlands pockets you prefer.
• Filter by property type, year built, lot size, bedrooms, garage spaces, and HOA dues.
• Add a radius from Union Station or your workplace to compare commute times.

Condos and townhomes (LoHi emphasis)

• Review HOA documents for reserve funds, fee history, rental caps, pet rules, and any special assessments.
• Confirm parking assignments and storage, plus any rooftop deck maintenance rules.
• Test sound transmission between units and check elevator and common area conditions.

Historic single‑family (Highlands emphasis)

• Inspect foundation and drainage, roof condition, and any signs of basement moisture.
• Ask about electrical wiring and plumbing updates, window condition, and insulation.
• Confirm permits for past renovations and whether exterior changes fall under landmark rules.

All property types

• Ask for a recent sewer scope and clarify lateral repair responsibility.
• Test cell reception and internet options, especially if you work from home.
• Visit at different times to gauge traffic, noise, and parking.
• Review property tax history and typical utility costs.
• Check neighborhood development plans, zoning, and any upcoming projects.

Market timing and trends

Denver shifted from a rapid seller market to more balanced conditions in recent years. Seasonality still matters, with spring often bringing a listing spike. Interest rate changes can affect buyer activity and negotiating leverage. If timing is flexible, compare several weeks of new inventory in both LoHi and the Highlands so you can move quickly when the right fit appears.

Next steps

If you are weighing LoHi against the broader Highlands, a side‑by‑side comparison using live MLS data will clarify price per square foot, HOA dues, parking, and outdoor space across your top choices. I will set up a tailored search, send comps by property type, and plan a neighborhood tour that hits the blocks that match your goals.

Ready to see how your options look on the ground? Let’s connect with Alex L. Reber for a custom plan and a clear path to your best‑fit home.

FAQs

What is the key difference between LoHi and the Highlands?

• LoHi sits closest to downtown with newer condos and townhomes and lively nightlife, while the broader Highlands features more historic single‑family homes and quieter residential blocks.

What property types are most common in LoHi?

• You will mostly find modern condos, lofts, and townhomes, often with rooftop decks and limited private yard space.

What property types are most common in the Highlands?

• Expect Victorian and Queen Anne houses, Denver Squares, Craftsman bungalows, and select infill, with more yards and tree‑lined streets.

How do prices usually compare between LoHi and the Highlands?

• LoHi often commands a location premium for proximity and views, while the Highlands offers a wider range and potential value for larger lots or historic homes depending on the block.

What should I check in historic Highlands homes?

• Focus on foundation and drainage, roof condition, electrical and plumbing updates, window and insulation performance, and permit history for prior renovations.

What should I review for LoHi condos or townhomes?

• Read HOA documents for reserves, fee trends, special assessments, rental caps, pet policies, and parking assignments, then test sound transmission and common areas.

How is parking different in LoHi vs. the Highlands?

• LoHi sees more parking pressure near popular spots with structured parking or small garages common, while Highlands blocks often have alley access and detached garages.