RiNo vs Highlands
Compare these two popular Denver neighborhoods side-by-side.Highlands is more affordable with 2BR rents at $2,600/mo.
RiNo
Artistic, trendy, industrial-chic
2BR Rent$2,700/mo
78
Walk
62
Transit
85
Bike
Highlands
MORE AFFORDABLETrendy, neighborhood-focused, charming
2BR Rent$2,600/mo
82
Walk
55
Transit
80
Bike
Rent Price Comparison
Monthly rent by bedroom type
| Unit Type | RiNo | Highlands | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,500 | $1,400 | +$100(+7.1%) |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,900 | $1,800 | +$100(+5.6%) |
| 2 Bedroom | $2,700 | $2,600 | +$100(+3.8%) |
| 3 Bedroom | $3,900 | $3,800 | +$100(+2.6%) |
Which Neighborhood Wins?
affordability
Highlands
Average rent is $100/mo higher
transit
RiNo
Transit score: 62 vs 55
walkability
Highlands
Walk score: 82 vs 78
nightlife
RiNo
Very active
families
Highlands
Good public schools
young Professionals
Highlands
Trendy, neighborhood-focused, charming
commute
RiNo
5-10 min to downtown
RiNo Overview
River North Art District with street art, breweries, creative spaces, and rapid development. Denver's hottest neighborhood.
Best For
ArtistsBeer loversCreativesTrendsetters
Pros
- +Vibrant art scene
- +Great breweries
- +Trendy
- +Central location
Cons
- -Expensive
- -Construction
- -Industrial areas
- -Limited parking
Safety
Good
Commute
5-10 min
Nightlife
Very active - breweries, bars, music venues
Schools
Limited residential
Highlands Overview
Trendy northwest Denver neighborhood with Victorian homes, popular restaurant row on 32nd Avenue, and mountain views.
Best For
FoodiesYoung professionalsFamiliesWalkability seekers
Pros
- +Great restaurants
- +Charming
- +Mountain views
- +Walkable
Cons
- -Expensive
- -Parking difficult
- -Crowded restaurants
- -Traffic
Safety
Very Good
Commute
10-15 min
Nightlife
Moderate - neighborhood bars, restaurants
Schools
Good public schools
Key Takeaways: RiNo vs Highlands
- Affordability: Highlands offers lower rents with 2BR averaging $2,600/mo compared to $2,700/mo.
- Walkability: Highlands has the edge with a Walk Score of 82.
- Transit: RiNo offers better public transit access (Transit Score: 62).
- Commute: RiNo (5-10 min) vsHighlands (10-15 min) to downtown.
Which Neighborhood is Right for You?
RiNo is ideal for artists and beer lovers, offering artistic, trendy, industrial-chic vibes. Highlands suits foodies and young professionals, known for its trendy, neighborhood-focused, charming atmosphere.