Affordable Homes Near Boulder, Colorado: Best Places to Buy in 2025

by Eric Farran

Boulder, Colorado is known for its scenic beauty, vibrant lifestyle, and thriving job market — but it’s no secret that living in Boulder comes with a high price tag. With the median home price exceeding $1.5 million, many buyers are looking just outside the city limits to find more affordable housing without sacrificing access to Boulder’s amenities, schools, and outdoor recreation.

If you're searching for affordable homes near Boulder, here are the best nearby towns and neighborhoods where you can get more value without straying far from the heart of the Front Range.

1. Lafayette, CO

Distance to Boulder: ~10 miles
Median Home Price: ~$650,000

Lafayette offers a mix of older homes, new builds, and charming neighborhoods with tree-lined streets. It’s popular with families and professionals who want to stay close to Boulder but need a lower price point.

Why Buyers Love It:

Excellent public schools in the Boulder Valley School District
Access to Waneka Lake Park and local trails
Thriving arts scene and walkable Old Town Lafayette

2. Louisville, CO

Distance to Boulder: ~8 miles
Median Home Price: ~$750,000

While not the cheapest option, Louisville is more affordable than Boulder and offers a similar lifestyle. The community is highly rated for schools, safety, and walkability.

Highlights:

Historic downtown with restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques
Strong sense of community and top-rated public schools
Quick access to US-36 for easy commuting

3. Erie, CO

Distance to Boulder: ~15 miles
Median Home Price: ~$600,000

Erie is one of the fastest-growing towns in the area, offering new construction homes, larger lots, and lower prices. It appeals to families, remote workers, and those looking for more square footage.

Benefits:

Newer developments with modern amenities
Parks, trails, and a growing town center
Split between Boulder Valley and St. Vrain Valley school districts

4. Longmont, CO

Distance to Boulder: ~15 miles
Median Home Price: ~$525,000

Longmont offers one of the most affordable housing markets within close proximity to Boulder. With a mix of historic homes, suburban developments, and new builds, Longmont provides diverse options for buyers.

What Makes It Appealing:

Rapidly growing downtown with breweries, tech startups, and local shops
Access to parks, lakes, and open space
Home to several Boulder-based professionals and remote workers

5. Broomfield, CO

Distance to Boulder: ~15 miles
Median Home Price: ~$625,000

Broomfield is ideal for commuters working in Boulder or Denver. It offers a balance of suburban living, modern infrastructure, and good schools.

Key Features:

Close to Flatiron Crossing Mall and Interlocken Business Park
Easy access to US-36 and E-470
Family-friendly neighborhoods and parks

6. Gunbarrel, CO

Distance to Boulder: ~6 miles
Median Home Price: ~$675,000

Technically a neighborhood within Boulder County, Gunbarrel offers a quieter, more suburban feel with slightly more affordable pricing than central Boulder.

Why It’s Worth a Look:

Quick access to Boulder via bike paths and highways
Proximity to open space and Twin Lakes
Mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes

7. Frederick & Firestone, CO

Distance to Boulder: ~25–30 miles
Median Home Price: ~$475,000

These neighboring towns in Weld County offer some of the most affordable homes near Boulder. With newer developments and larger homes, they’re ideal for buyers prioritizing space and value.

What to Expect:

Family-friendly master-planned communities
Easy access to I-25 for Denver and Boulder commutes
Lower property taxes and cost of living

8. Niwot, CO

Distance to Boulder: ~7 miles
Median Home Price: ~$850,000 (but condos/townhomes more affordable)

Niwot is a charming small town with a historic downtown, boutique shops, and beautiful neighborhoods. While many homes are higher-end, there are affordable options in townhomes and smaller properties.

Appeal:

Excellent schools and a strong sense of community
Easy bike and car access to Boulder
Scenic, quiet, and community-oriented

Final Thoughts

While Boulder itself may be out of reach for many homebuyers, the surrounding communities offer a wide range of affordable housing options—often with better space, newer homes, and great amenities. Whether you’re looking for a walkable town like Louisville, a growing family-friendly suburb like Erie, or unbeatable value in Frederick or Longmont, you don’t have to give up the Boulder lifestyle.

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