Aurora, Colorado: A Comprehensive Guide to the 80010 Zip Code

Aurora, the third-largest city in Colorado, is a vibrant and diverse community with a rich history and culture. The 80010 zip code encompasses the northeastern portion of the city, including the bustling Aurora Mall, the historic Lowry neighborhood, and the scenic Fletcher Heights district.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into all aspects of the Aurora 80010 zip code, providing valuable information for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

Location and Demographics

Location: The 80010 zip code is situated in northeastern Aurora, bordered by the cities of Denver and Commerce City. It is conveniently located near major highways, including I-225 and I-70, offering easy access to downtown Denver and other surrounding areas.

Demographics: According to the 2020 US Census, the 80010 zip code has a population of approximately 60,000 residents. The median household income is $75,000, and the median home value is $425,000. The population is predominantly Hispanic (45%), followed by White (30%) and African American (15%).

Neighborhoods and Amenities

The 80010 zip code encompasses several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and amenities.

Aurora Mall Area: Home to the massive Aurora Mall, the largest shopping center in Colorado. The area also boasts a variety of restaurants, entertainment venues, and hotels.

Lowry: A historic neighborhood originally developed as an Air Force base. Lowry now offers a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments, along with parks, trails, and a golf course.

Fletcher Heights: A charming neighborhood with tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes. Fletcher Heights is known for its proximity to scenic parks and recreational areas.

Education and Healthcare

Education: The 80010 zip code is served by the Cherry Creek School District, one of the top-rated school districts in Colorado. The area has numerous elementary, middle, and high schools, including Aurora Central High School and Overland High School.

Healthcare: Aurora is home to several major healthcare facilities, including the University of Colorado Hospital - Aurora, Denver Health Medical Center - Aurora, and the Aurora VA Medical Center. These facilities provide a wide range of medical services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency services.

Economic Development and Employment

The 80010 zip code is a major hub for economic development and employment.

Businesses: The area is home to a diverse mix of businesses, including the Aurora Mall, Kaiser Permanente, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman.

Employment: The unemployment rate in the 80010 zip code is currently 3.5%, significantly below the national average. Major employers in the area include healthcare, manufacturing, and technology companies.

Lifestyle and Recreation

Lifestyle: Aurora 80010 offers a vibrant lifestyle with a wide range of activities for residents. The area boasts numerous parks, trails, and open spaces, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Aurora Recreation Center offers a variety of fitness classes, swimming pools, and sports facilities.

Recreation: The 80010 zip code is home to several cultural and entertainment attractions, including the Aurora Cultural Arts District, the Aurora Fox Arts Center, and the Aurora Symphony Orchestra. The area also has a number of sports venues, including the Aurora Sports Complex and the Colorado Rapids soccer stadium.

Housing Market and Real Estate

Housing Market: The 80010 zip code has a diverse housing market with a variety of options for buyers and renters. The area offers a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments, ranging from affordable to luxury properties.

Real Estate: The median home value in the 80010 zip code is $425,000, slightly above the national average. The area has seen a steady increase in home prices in recent years, making it an attractive investment option.

Cost of Living and Taxes

Cost of Living: The cost of living in the 80010 zip code is comparable to the national average. Housing costs are slightly higher than the national average, but other expenses such as transportation and groceries are in line with the national median.

Taxes: Aurora residents pay a 4.63% sales tax rate. The property tax rate is 1.02%, slightly higher than the state average. The income tax rate in Colorado is a flat 4.55%.

Why Aurora 80010 Matters

The Aurora 80010 zip code is a vibrant and diverse community with a strong economy, excellent schools, and a wide range of amenities. Whether you are a resident, a business owner, or a visitor, Aurora 80010 offers something for everyone.

Benefits of Living in Aurora 80010:

• Access to a major shopping center and a variety of entertainment venues
• Proximity to Denver and other surrounding areas
• Excellent schools and healthcare facilities
• Strong economy and a diverse job market
• Abundance of parks, trails, and open spaces
• Vibrant cultural and entertainment scene
• Affordable housing options and a reasonable cost of living

Interesting Stories

1. The Aurora Borealis Mystery: A curious incident occurred in Aurora 80010 during the winter of 2019. Residents reported seeing the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, dancing in the night sky. The phenomenon is typically not visible so far south, leaving scientists baffled.

2. The Lost Dog of Lowry: In the spring of 2022, a beloved pet named Max went missing from his home in the Lowry neighborhood. The community rallied together, posting flyers and searching tirelessly for the lost pup. After three days, Max was miraculously found safe and sound by a local resident, proving that even in a big city, neighbors look out for each other.

3. The Giant Pumpkin Contest: Every fall, the residents of Fletcher Heights host a friendly competition to see who can grow the largest pumpkin. In 2021, a local gardener broke the neighborhood record with a pumpkin weighing in at a whopping 1,200 pounds. The contest not only brings the community together but also ignites a fierce rivalry among the green-thumbed residents.

Useful Tables

Table 1: Demographics of Aurora 80010 Zip Code

Table 2: Education in Aurora 80010 Zip Code

Table 3: Healthcare in Aurora 80010 Zip Code

Effective Strategies

• Invest in education: Support schools and programs that provide high-quality education to residents.
• Promote economic development: Attract and retain businesses by offering incentives and fostering a pro-business environment.
• Improve public transportation: Expand bus and light rail service to connect residents to jobs, schools, and other amenities.
• Preserve open spaces: Protect parks, trails, and natural areas to maintain the quality of life for residents.
• Foster community involvement: Encourage residents to participate in community events and volunteer activities to build a sense of belonging.

Tips and Tricks

• Visit the Aurora Mall: Experience the largest shopping center in Colorado with hundreds of stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
• Explore the Lowry Neighborhood: Discover the charm of this historic district with its charming homes, parks, and golf course.
• Take a Walk in Fletcher Heights: Enjoy the tranquil streets and well-maintained homes in this beautiful neighborhood.
• Attend a Performance at the Aurora Fox Arts Center: Witness the magic of live theater and music in this historic venue.
• Cheer on the Aurora Sports: Support the local soccer team, the Colorado Rapids, and enjoy a thrilling match at their stadium.