Choosing between Crestmoor, Hilltop, and Lowry can feel like comparing three great versions of Denver living. You might want the calm of tree‑lined streets, the convenience of a walkable hub, or the character of an established enclave. This guide gives you a clear, side‑by‑side view so you can focus on fit: homes and architecture, lot sizes, park and trail access, and everyday convenience. Let’s dive in.
Crestmoor, Hilltop, and Lowry at a glance
- Crestmoor: Quiet, park‑adjacent single‑family neighborhood with a mix of mid‑century homes and newer custom builds.
- Hilltop: Established, upscale single‑family area known for larger lots, mature landscaping, and notable historic styles.
- Lowry: Master‑planned redevelopment with a mix of condos, townhomes, and single‑family pockets plus built‑in parks and retail.
Architecture and housing character
Crestmoor
Crestmoor offers a mix of mid‑century ranches, bungalows, and contemporary infill. Some streets feel classic, while others show more recent custom builds. Buyers often choose Crestmoor for single‑level living potential, park proximity, and the option to renovate or rebuild on well‑located lots.
Hilltop
Hilltop showcases a broader range of architectural styles, including Tudor, Georgian, Colonial, Craftsman, and mid‑century homes. Many homes are larger, often with higher ceilings and more formal layouts. Historic character and larger parcels contribute to Hilltop’s premium single‑family appeal.
Lowry
Lowry features newer, cohesive construction across townhomes, rowhomes, mid‑rise condos, and select single‑family pockets. Designs favor modern materials and efficient footprints. It tends to attract buyers who prefer maintenance‑light living and a walkable environment.
Resale considerations
- Hilltop’s large‑lot, architecturally significant homes often command premium pricing and hold value well, though many older homes need updates.
- Crestmoor’s diversity appeals to both turnkey buyers and those who want to renovate or build. Park adjacency is a consistent plus.
- Lowry’s resale dynamics vary by product type and HOA structure. Condos and townhomes are influenced by unit size, finishes, and community amenities.
Lot size and outdoor living
Hilltop
Among the three, Hilltop generally has the largest lots. These parcels support more expansive yards and landscaping, and may offer flexibility for pools, additions, or accessory structures, subject to city zoning and permits.
Crestmoor
Crestmoor typically offers medium‑sized lots, often larger than Lowry but smaller than Hilltop’s largest parcels. Many homes have generous backyards and usable outdoor space, and park‑edge or corner sites can be larger. The mix makes Crestmoor appealing for both outdoor living and rebuild potential.
Lowry
Lowry’s average lot sizes are smaller, with many attached homes and townhome footprints. Private outdoor spaces tend to be compact, with a neighborhood emphasis on shared parks and trails instead of large private yards.
Tip: Before you plan a pool, addition, or an accessory dwelling, check the specific lot size, allowable coverage, and setbacks using City of Denver zoning resources. In Lowry, also review HOA guidelines for exterior changes.
Parks and open space
Crestmoor Park advantage
Crestmoor Park is the neighborhood’s anchor. It offers walking paths, open lawns, and active‑use features such as sports areas and dog‑friendly spaces. Daily access to green space and scenic park views are major lifestyle benefits, and they support long‑term resale appeal.
Hilltop greenscape
Hilltop does not center on a single large park at Crestmoor’s scale, but it benefits from mature trees, landscaped private yards, and pocket parks. Many streets feel green and established, giving the neighborhood a calm, residential rhythm.
Lowry’s planned network
Lowry weaves multiple parks, playgrounds, and trails into its master plan. The community’s design emphasizes walkable public spaces, connecting residents to outdoor amenities throughout the neighborhood.
Everyday convenience
Retail and dining access
- Crestmoor: Limited businesses inside the neighborhood. Most residents drive or bike to nearby corridors for full grocery runs, coffee, and dining. Proximity to major east‑side shopping areas varies by address.
- Hilltop: Similar to Crestmoor in day‑to‑day pattern. In‑neighborhood retail is light, with easy access to surrounding corridors for boutiques, dining, and groceries.
- Lowry: Designed with in‑neighborhood retail nodes, including grocery, cafes, and restaurants. Many residents can walk to daily needs.
Driving, transit, and biking
All three neighborhoods offer reasonable driving access to central Denver and major arteries. Actual drive times vary by route and time of day, so map your commute during peak hours.
- Transit: Lowry includes multiple bus routes and a transit‑friendly street plan. Crestmoor and Hilltop have bus access along nearby corridors but are generally less transit‑centric.
- Walkability and bikes: Lowry is typically the most walkable and bike‑friendly due to its mixed‑use planning. Crestmoor and Hilltop are more residential and car‑oriented, with easy walks to parks and select nearby corridors.
Schools overview
All three neighborhoods are served by Denver Public Schools, with access to nearby private and charter options. School assignments, enrollment pathways, and performance can vary by address. If schools are a priority, verify current boundaries and review state report cards for any specific property you are considering.
Market positioning and buyer fit
Pricing and product context
Market conditions change, but the general pattern is consistent. Hilltop tends to carry the highest single‑family prices due to larger lots and established upscale stock. Crestmoor often follows close behind, with premiums for park‑adjacent and updated homes. Lowry varies widely by property type, with newer single‑family pockets priced competitively and condo or townhome values shaped by unit size and HOA.
Who each area suits
- Crestmoor: Move‑up buyers who want quiet streets near a major park, plus options to renovate or build. Strong fit if you value a balance of charm and newer construction.
- Hilltop: Buyers seeking larger, traditional single‑family homes with significant yards and mature landscaping. Often a longer‑term choice for higher‑budget households.
- Lowry: Buyers who prioritize walkability, newer finishes, and convenience. Ideal if you prefer a maintenance‑light lifestyle with parks and retail close at hand.
Financial factors to review
- Property taxes, HOA dues, and any special assessments. Lowry commonly includes HOA structures; verify details per property.
- Renovation budgets for older homes in Hilltop and Crestmoor versus premiums for turnkey new builds.
- Zoning allowances for additions, accessory dwellings, and lot coverage before committing to a project.
How to choose your best fit
Use this quick process to validate lifestyle, home, and investment goals:
- Rank your priorities. Decide whether you value a large private yard, park adjacency, walkable retail, or a newer home most.
- Align housing type. If you want single‑family with potential to expand, focus on Crestmoor or Hilltop. If you prefer condos or townhomes, include Lowry.
- Walk the parks. Experience Crestmoor Park, Hilltop’s tree‑lined blocks, and Lowry’s trail network at different times of day.
- Test daily routines. Time your commute, map grocery runs, and note access to dining, fitness, and services.
- Check the numbers. Review recent comparable sales, property taxes, and any HOA dues or rules relevant to your target properties.
- Confirm feasibility. For pools, additions, or ADUs, confirm zoning and lot specifics before you bid.
Ready to compare properties on the ground and make a confident decision? Reach out to the Wolfe Bouc Team to schedule a discreet, data‑driven tour plan tailored to your goals.
FAQs
How close is Crestmoor to grocery and dining options?
- Expect limited businesses inside Crestmoor and rely on nearby corridors for full grocery runs, coffee, and dining; exact convenience varies by your address.
Are Crestmoor lots large enough for a pool or major addition?
- Many parcels are medium‑sized and can support significant outdoor living; confirm lot size, coverage, and setbacks for your specific property through city zoning.
Which neighborhood is most walkable for daily errands?
- Lowry is typically the most walkable due to its mixed‑use plan, while Crestmoor and Hilltop are more residential with strong park access but fewer in‑neighborhood shops.
Do homes in Lowry usually have HOAs, and what should I expect?
- Many Lowry properties include HOA structures; dues and rules vary by building or sub‑community, so review HOA documents for each listing.
How much value does living near Crestmoor Park add?
- Park proximity supports daily lifestyle and resale appeal; quantify premiums by comparing recent sales of park‑adjacent homes to nearby non‑park properties in the same period.
