10 Things to Know About Living in Henderson, Colorado

Moving to a new community means understanding what day-to-day life will actually look like. Henderson, Colorado sits just northeast of Denver in Adams County and is a place with unique characteristics you won’t find everywhere. Whether you are considering relocation, renting your first home, or settling down long-term, this list will help you make informed decisions. Along the way we will touch on cost of living, weather patterns, housing, schools, jobs, recreation, and the conveniences that make Henderson livable. If you are storing household goods while transitioning to a new home, STOR-N-LOCK Self Storage on East 104th Avenue is a local resource to keep in mind during your move.

Also, if you're looking to move elsewhere in the west, check out our helpful guides on what to expect when moving to Boise, Colorado Springs, or Salt Lake City to get a lay of the land before you arrive. Ok, let's dive into Henderson, Colorado!

1. The Cost of Living Is Higher Than the National Average

Living in Henderson is more expensive than what you would find in many U.S. communities. Overall cost of living for a single person is roughly $3,076 per month and around $6,775 per month for a family of four. The community’s cost of living sits about 24% above the national average, driven primarily by housing, transportation, and energy costs. Housing alone accounts for a significant portion of that figure, increasing monthly budgets substantially compared to many other parts of the country. Food costs in Henderson, however, are slightly below the national average, so grocery bills may help offset some other expenses. Housing and transportation are where you will feel the biggest pinch. 

2. Weather Is Distinctly Four-Season, With Cold Winters and Warm Summers

Weather in Henderson follows a semi-arid pattern typical of northeastern Colorado. Summers can get warm, with average high temperatures nearing 88.9°F in July, while winters are cold and dry, with average lows dropping into the low 20s°F in December and January. Snow is common from late fall through early spring. The community averages dozens of snowy days per year, and total snowfall can reach over 11" annually. Spring and fall are transitional and often pleasant, but spring can also be the wettest season with more frequent rain. Sunshine is abundant for much of the year, contributing to that dry-air feel.

3. The Housing Market Varies but Trends Toward Higher Pricing

Henderson’s housing market is competitive and prices tend to sit above the national averages. Median home prices are reported around $451,725, which is higher than the U.S. median but lower than some Colorado markets like Denver. Certain desirable neighborhoods push prices even higher, while others offer more affordability. Buyers should be prepared for moves to sell homes somewhat slowly compared to ultra-hot markets, with properties often remaining on the market for weeks before sale. Renting is also an option, though rental prices are influenced by strong demand, particularly in neighborhoods closer to the Denver metro area. 

4. Population and Growth Shapes Community Feel

Henderson is part of the larger Commerce City area and is considered unincorporated, but it has seen consistent growth as more people seek proximity to Denver without living directly in the city. Local population estimates vary, with figures around 14,000 to more than 30,000 residents depending on how boundaries are defined and which data source you reference. Median age hovers in the early 30s, making the area appealing for young professionals and families alike. There is a mix of long-time residents and newcomers who appreciate the balance between suburban living and access to urban opportunities.

5. Local Economy and Jobs Require Commuting Options

Employment opportunities in Henderson itself are somewhat limited compared to larger urban centers. Many residents work in Commerce City, Brighton, Denver, or other nearby metro locations. Given this spread, owning a reliable vehicle is essential because public transit options are far less developed than in major cities. Commute times can vary widely based on traffic and your employer’s location, so planning your route and understanding peak travel times is important before committing to a job in the area.

6. Education and School Options Are Diverse but Uneven

School performance around the Henderson community varies. Public schools are part of Adams County School District 27J. Families with children should research specific schools carefully because ratings and performance metrics can differ across neighborhoods. Some schools near Henderson may offer strong programs in certain grades, while others perform closer to average. For families prioritizing education quality, touring schools and speaking with local parents provides insight that raw ratings alone cannot capture. 

7. Recreation and Outdoor Space Are Easily Accessible

Living in Henderson puts residents within easy reach of both local outdoor spaces and larger regional recreation areas. Nearby parks such as Second Creek Open Space and community green areas in Commerce City offer walking paths, open fields, and paved trails suitable for biking and casual exercise. For longer trail systems, residents often head to Barr Lake State Park, located less than 15 minutes away, where miles of flat trails circle the lake and provide opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and weekend walks.

Henderson’s location also makes mountain recreation realistic for day trips. Popular Front Range destinations like Boulder Canyon, Golden Gate

Canyon State Park, and Clear Creek Canyon are roughly an hour’s drive and offer established hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. During winter, ski areas such as Loveland Ski Area and Winter Park are accessible within about 90 minutes, making weekend skiing or snowboarding manageable without overnight travel. This proximity to both plains and mountains allows residents to choose between short, local outings or full-day outdoor trips depending on the season and schedule.

8. Shopping, Dining, and Everyday Conveniences Are Close

Being near Commerce City and Brighton means you will not be far from grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, and other everyday essentials. Henderson itself may not have the scale of retail found in a big city, but residents routinely access nearby commercial areas for shopping and services. 

9. Cost of Transportation and Infrastructure Matters for Daily Life

Because Henderson is situated on the outskirts of Denver’s metro area, transportation becomes a daily consideration. Most residents rely on vehicles, and with transportation costs running higher than average, budgeting for gas, insurance, and maintenance is crucial. Public transit is not a mainstay, making vehicle ownership nearly required for most jobs and errands. 

10. Community Identity Combines Small-Town Feel with Metro Access

Henderson’s identity is a blend of small-town community and metropolitan proximity. It does not have the self-contained feel of a standalone city, because nearby Commerce City and Brighton influence local culture, economics, and services. Instead, residents enjoy the quieter environment of a smaller community while still having access to major city amenities within a short drive. This mix appeals to people who want space and a slower pace during off-hours, but also vibrant job markets and entertainment options a short commute away.

Living in Henderson, CO

Living in Henderson, Colorado means balancing higher living costs with a desirable location near Denver and a blend of suburban and outdoor lifestyles. Weather patterns can influence everything from utility planning to weekend activities. Housing prices trend higher than national averages, and transportation planning is crucial for work and errands. Families will want to evaluate school options and local services before deciding where to settle. 

For anyone making a move or organizing belongings during a transition a reliable storage facility in Henderson is a smart move. STOR-N-LOCK Self Storage is ready whenever you need help to move into your new Henderson home.