Tuesday CNN Money ranked two thriving towns in Douglas County in the top 30 places to live in the United States. The Town of Castle Rock ranked 19th and The Town of Parker ranked 29th.
A team of seven CNN Money reporters scoured the country and made their way through mountains of data for small towns (designated by those with under 50,000) that stood out in the qualities CNN feels American families care about most. Criteria such as job opportunities, top schools, safe streets, economic strength (even during this economy), good healthcare, cultural and outdoor activities, and nice weather came into play.
Those of us that live in the area aren't surprised as most folks lucky enough to live in Douglas County couldn't imagine wanting to live anywhere else.
Town of Castle Rock Colorado
Castle Rock ranked 19th with a median annual family income of $95,236 and a job growth % from 2000-2010 of 76.46%
With roots in mining and railroads, this affluent town offers an updated taste of the Old West. It boasts an historic downtown area, 265 acres of parks, and 44 miles of trails. Douglas County Rodeo comes to town each summer, complete with a fair and parade. And there are bargains to be had at the nearby outlet mall. The local economy is improving too. A manufacturer for wind turbine parts recently moved to Castle Rock, and officials have earmarked an economic development assistance fund of $5 million to bring new businesses to town. --A.W.
“We know Castle Rock is great place to live, work and raise a family,” said Mayor Paul Donahue. “Now, other parts of the country are starting to find out. Our residents work hard to maintain the small-town charm that we all enjoy. We’re more fortunate than many other communities – our hard work and tough decisions are starting to pay off.”
Town of Parker Colorado
Parker Ranked 29th with a median annual family income of $93,891 and a job growth % from 2000-2010 of 65.45%
“You can’t keep a great Town like this a secret for too long,” said Parker Mayor David Casiano. “We are thrilled to be included on the list.”
This once-rural enclave still has a charming ranch vibe, with panoramic mountain views and the occasional cowboy hat. Steady growth has encouraged construction, which means relatively low home prices; many residents work at the Denver Tech Center, just 20 minutes away. One of the healthiest communities in America, this young town can expect a wealth of new recreation opportunities when a local reservoir is completed in 2012. What’s more, an arts center with a theater, dance studio, and 250-seat outdoor amphitheater is scheduled to open before the end of 2011. --A.W.
Our neighbor just to the north of the Denver Metro area Louisville Colorado ranked #1 with a family income of $104,222 and a job growth rate of 3.07%
To read more about what makes Castle Rock and Parker great places to live or to view the entire Top 100 list, visit cnnmoney.com.
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