Neighborhood Guide

University Place

Boulder, CO 80302

Data Verified: Jul 6, 2026

About this Area

University Place, located in the heart of Boulder, Colorado, is a vibrant and dynamic neighborhood that has evolved alongside the University of Colorado Boulder, shaping its identity as a hub for education, innovation, and community engagement. Established in the early 20th century as a residential area for university faculty and students, University Place has grown into a diverse and inclusive neighborhood that celebrates its academic roots while embracing modern urban living. The area’s tree-lined streets, historic bungalows, and mid-century modern homes reflect its rich architectural heritage, while newer infill developments and luxury apartments cater to a growing population of professionals and students. University Place’s lively atmosphere is fueled by the energy of CU Boulder, with students, faculty, and locals converging at local cafes, bookstores, and cultural venues, creating a unique blend of intellectual curiosity and community spirit.

The real estate market in University Place is characterized by a mix of historic homes, modern apartments, and luxury condominiums, with median home values around $1,123,800 reflecting the neighborhood’s prime location and desirability. Lot sizes vary widely, from small infill lots perfect for modern townhomes to larger parcels suitable for custom-built residences. Architectural styles range from charming 1920s bungalows with hardwood floors and built-in cabinetry to sleek, contemporary townhomes with open floor plans and high-end finishes. The market is highly competitive, with homes often selling within days of listing, and buyers frequently paying premium prices for the privilege of living so close to CU Boulder and downtown Boulder. Proximity to the university, as well as major employers like IBM and Google, further enhances property values and demand.

University Place residents enjoy unparalleled access to the amenities of Boulder, with the University of Colorado Boulder campus just a short walk or bike ride away, offering world-class educational opportunities, cultural events, and recreational facilities. The neighborhood is home to a variety of local shops, cafes, and restaurants, including the iconic University Hill Shopping Center, which features a mix of national retailers and locally owned businesses. For outdoor recreation, residents can explore the nearby Boulder Creek Path, which winds through the heart of the city and offers scenic walking and biking trails. Local schools, including University Hill Elementary and Boulder High School, serve the area, while nearby CU Boulder provides higher education opportunities. The neighborhood’s proximity to downtown Boulder ensures convenient access to shopping, dining, entertainment, and public transportation options, making it an ideal location for students, professionals, and families alike.

Buyers choose University Place for its unbeatable location, vibrant community, and proximity to the University of Colorado Boulder, making it one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the city. The median income of $60,649 reflects a diverse mix of students, faculty, professionals, and families who value the neighborhood’s academic energy and urban convenience. Commute times are minimal, with easy access to major highways like US-36 and Foothills Parkway, as well as public transportation options like the Boulder Dash and RTD buses, ensuring a seamless connection to Denver and other regional hubs. The economic stability of Boulder, combined with the neighborhood’s reputation for innovation and community engagement, makes University Place a smart investment for long-term growth. Whether seeking a lively urban lifestyle or a close-knit community feel, residents of University Place enjoy the best of both worlds—academic excellence with all the conveniences of a thriving city.

Homendo Valuation Index
Quality of Life 85
Environment 81
Education 80
Safety 94
Demographics
Population
29,751
Density
8,500
Median Age
24.5
Income
$60,649
StatisticZipCityCountyStateUSA
Population 29,751 106,274328,3175,810,774332,387,540
Median Age 24.5 28.837.537.538.7
People per Household 2.22 2.162.332.452.54
Median Household Income $60,649 $85,364$102,772$92,470$78,538
Avg Income per Capita $54,776 $59,450$60,272$50,489$43,289
Real Estate Market
Median Value
$1,123,800
Median Rent
$1,758
Available
249
MetricZipCityCountyStateUSA
Median Sale Price$1,123,800$982,600$713,900$502,200$303,400
Median Age of Home5147393845
Homes Owned36.8%44.9%59.1%60.6%58.2%
Homes Rented55.0%48.8%35.6%30.8%31.3%
Homes Vacant8.2%6.3%5.3%8.6%10.4%
Quality of Life
IndexZipCityCountyStateUSA
Cost of Living Index208.2208.2208.2208.2100.0
Commute Time (min)19.719.023.225.526.6
Work from Home27.5%31.6%27.9%18.8%13.5%
Climate
Jan Low
14.3°
July High
86.5°
Rain
17.3"
MetricZipCityCountyStateUSA
Jan Avg Low (°F)14.314.314.314.314.3
July Avg High (°F)86.586.586.586.586.5
Annual Precip (in)17.317.317.317.317.3
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 University Place

University Place is an accessible entry-point into the CO real estate market located in Boulder. The neighborhood is offering a flexible lifestyle with a dynamic mix of owners and renters, ideal for young professionals or investors..

Demographically, the area is popular among young professionals and growing families (Median Age: 24.5), creating a unique community atmosphere. With a median household income of $60,649, 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 University Place is currently active. The median home value stands at $1,123,800, reflecting the desirability of the Boulder area. For investors or those looking to lease, the median rent is approximately $1,758.

According to Homendo Network, the area's inventory turnover (Vacancy Rate: 8.2%) suggests a competitive market where quality homes tend to sell quickly.
Source: Homendo Network Market Data Analysis (2026).

University Place holds a Homendo Safety Score of 94 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 Boulder 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 University Place is rated at 80 on the Homendo Index. Located within the Boulder 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
Walker's Paradise
96
Transit
Good Transit
56
Bike
Very Bikeable
87
School Ratings

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