Neighborhood Guide

The Dam

Aurora, CO 80014

Data Verified: Jul 4, 2026

About this Area

The Dam neighborhood in Aurora, Colorado, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and suburban charm, nestled along the banks of the Cherry Creek Reservoir. Originally developed in the 1970s as a recreational community, The Dam was designed to capitalize on its proximity to the reservoir, which serves as a hub for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The neighborhood's name is derived from the dam that was constructed to create the reservoir, a testament to the area's engineering history. Over the years, The Dam has evolved into a sought-after residential area, known for its scenic views, peaceful atmosphere, and strong sense of community. The neighborhood's history is reflected in its architectural diversity, with homes that range from mid-century modern to contemporary designs, each offering a unique character that enhances the area's appeal.

The Dam neighborhood features a dynamic real estate market with a median home value of approximately three hundred eighty-six thousand five hundred dollars, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking a balance between affordability and luxury. The neighborhood is characterized by a mix of architectural styles, including ranch-style homes, split-levels, and two-story houses, many of which were built between the 1970s and early 2000s. Lot sizes in The Dam typically range from six thousand to twelve thousand square feet, providing ample space for both privacy and outdoor activities. Homes in this area often boast features such as updated kitchens, hardwood flooring, and spacious basements, catering to the needs of modern families. The neighborhood's well-maintained streets and proximity to major roadways like East Colfax Avenue and Parker Road enhance its appeal to commuters working in Denver or other nearby cities.

Residents of The Dam enjoy a wealth of amenities that cater to both leisure and practical needs. The neighborhood is home to the Cherry Creek State Park, a sprawling recreational area featuring a reservoir for boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as hiking and biking trails that meander through the park. For shopping and dining, the nearby Southlands Mall offers a variety of options, including a grocery store, pharmacy, and several local restaurants. Educational needs are well-served by the Cherry Creek School District, with nearby schools like Challenge to Excellence Charter School and Cherry Creek High School providing quality education. Additionally, the neighborhood's close proximity to the Anschutz Medical Campus and Denver International Airport ensures convenient access to healthcare and travel options. The area also benefits from easy access to major highways, making it a prime location for commuters.

The Dam neighborhood in Aurora is a highly desirable location for families and professionals seeking a suburban lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities and natural beauty. With a median household income of seventy-two thousand five hundred sixty-one dollars, the neighborhood reflects economic stability and attractiveness to a diverse range of buyers. Commuting is effortless, thanks to major highways like I-225 and I-70, which provide quick access to Denver, DIA, and other employment hubs. The strong sense of community, coupled with top-rated schools and abundant recreational opportunities, makes The Dam an ideal place to raise a family or enjoy a peaceful retirement. Whether you're drawn to the neighborhood's scenic views, its well-maintained homes, or its proximity to the Cherry Creek Reservoir, The Dam offers a lifestyle that is both fulfilling and convenient.

Homendo Valuation Index
Quality of Life 85
Environment 81
Education 87
Safety 89
Demographics
Population
39,277
Density
2,900
Median Age
41.4
Income
$72,561
StatisticZipCityCountyStateUSA
Population 39,277 390,201655,7095,810,774332,387,540
Median Age 41.4 35.137.337.538.7
People per Household 2.05 2.712.562.452.54
Median Household Income $72,561 $84,320$97,215$92,470$78,538
Avg Income per Capita $45,246 $40,424$51,942$50,489$43,289
Real Estate Market
Median Value
$386,500
Median Rent
$1,665
Available
307
MetricZipCityCountyStateUSA
Median Sale Price$386,500$444,500$526,000$502,200$303,400
Median Age of Home4440403845
Homes Owned56.9%60.3%62.2%60.6%58.2%
Homes Rented38.3%35.0%33.3%30.8%31.3%
Homes Vacant4.8%4.7%4.5%8.6%10.4%
Quality of Life
IndexZipCityCountyStateUSA
Cost of Living Index111.0111.0111.0111.0100.0
Commute Time (min)26.928.927.325.526.6
Work from Home16.9%14.8%18.6%18.8%13.5%
Climate
Jan Low
18.0°
July High
90.9°
Rain
17.6"
MetricZipCityCountyStateUSA
Jan Avg Low (°F)18.018.018.018.018.0
July Avg High (°F)90.990.990.990.990.9
Annual Precip (in)17.617.617.617.617.6
Safety & Crime
Violent Crimes (per 100k)
TypeZipCityCountyStateUSA
Assault350.5350.5350.5350.5350.5
Murder4.54.54.54.54.5
Robbery63.063.063.063.063.0
Property Crimes (per 100k)
TypeZipCityCountyStateUSA
Burglary348.0348.0348.0348.0348.0
Theft1754.21754.21754.21754.21754.2

Neighborhood Insights

AI-Ready Analysis for The Dam

The Dam is an accessible entry-point into the CO real estate market located in Aurora. The neighborhood is offering a healthy balance of homeownership and rental opportunities..

Demographically, the area attracts a diverse age group (Median Age: 41.4), creating a unique community atmosphere. With a median household income of $72,561, residents enjoy a quality of life that supports local commerce and community maintenance.
Source: Homendo Network Market Data Analysis (2026).

The real estate market in The Dam is currently active. The median home value stands at $386,500, reflecting the desirability of the Aurora area. For investors or those looking to lease, the median rent is approximately $1,665.

According to Homendo Network, the area's inventory turnover (Vacancy Rate: 4.8%) suggests a competitive market where quality homes tend to sell quickly.
Source: Homendo Network Market Data Analysis (2026).

The Dam holds a Homendo Safety Score of 89 and an Environmental Quality Score of 81. These metrics are calculated based on local crime statistics per 100k residents and environmental factors like air quality and park density.

Compared to the broader Aurora region, this neighborhood offers a specific balance of security and outdoor accessibility that appeals to safety-conscious buyers.
Source: Homendo Network Market Data Analysis (2026).

The educational landscape in The Dam is rated at 87 on the Homendo Index. Located within the Arapahoe County jurisdiction, residents have access to a network of public and private institutions. Families often choose this area specifically for access to these educational resources.
Source: Homendo Network Market Data Analysis (2026).
Location
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WalkScore™
Walk
Car-Dependent
21
Transit
Some Transit
42
Bike
Somewhat Bikeable
38
School Ratings

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