ZIP 80228 — Lakewood

Crime rates in the 80228 area are generally lower than the Denver metro average, with property crime being the primary concern. Local law enforcement reports stable trends in recent years.

The area is served by the Jefferson County School District, which maintains a strong reputation with several highly-rated public schools. Educational outcomes in this ZIP are consistently above state averages.

The area faces moderate wildfire risk due to its proximity to the foothills, and residents are encouraged to maintain defensible space. Flood risk is generally low, though localized drainage issues can occur.

Economic momentum is driven by proximity to the Denver Federal Center and the C-470 corridor, which hosts numerous corporate and government employers. Development is largely infill-focused due to the built-out nature of the suburban landscape.

Composed from the ARED governance burden registry — tier-native tax structure (state + county + city + special districts), never averaged. State (Colorado) — Statutory Agricultural Land Reclassification and Improvement Valuation: Under C.R.S. § 39-1-102(1.6)(a)(I), up to two acres of land directly underlying a residential improvement on agricultural parcels are segregated and assessed at residential rates (6.80% / 7. State (Colorado) — Senior and Disabled Veteran Property Tax Homestead Exemption: Exempts 50% of the first $200,000 of actual market value of the qualifying primary residential parcel from property taxation (a maximum actual value deduction of $100,000). State (Colorado) — Colorado Split Residential Property Tax Assessment Rate Structure: Imposes annual ad valorem property taxes determined using a bifurcated assessment rate system. Assessed Value = Actual (Market) Value × Assessment Rate. Beginning for tax years 2025/2026, residential property is assessed at 6.

Residents benefit from direct access to US-285 and C-470, providing efficient routes to downtown Denver and the Denver Tech Center. Public transit options include regional bus lines, though most residents rely on personal vehicles.

The area features extensive access to outdoor amenities, including Bear Creek Lake Park and numerous neighborhood trails. Shopping and dining are concentrated along the W. Alameda Ave and W. Jewell Ave corridors.

The rental market is competitive with low vacancy rates, driven by demand from young professionals and employees at nearby major institutions. Short-term rental activity is regulated by Lakewood city ordinances.

The economy is anchored by the Denver Federal Center, a major federal employment hub, and a diverse mix of healthcare, retail, and professional services. The area benefits from its strategic location between Denver and the foothills.

The area is served by a network of arterial roads connecting to the C-470 and US-285 highways. Regional transit is provided by RTD bus services, with limited light rail access in the immediate vicinity.

Planning efforts are focused on transit-oriented development near major corridors and the revitalization of older commercial centers. Infill projects are prioritized to maintain the area's suburban character.

The Jefferson County Assessor's office conducts biennial property valuations based on market data and physical inspections. Assessments are subject to state-mandated residential assessment rates.

Parcels are subject to various special districts, including fire protection, water and sanitation, and the Jefferson County School District. Some areas may fall within specific metropolitan districts for infrastructure maintenance.

Property insurance premiums have seen upward pressure due to regional wildfire risk and hail exposure. Homeowners are advised to maintain comprehensive coverage and mitigate fire risks.

null

null

null