Wheat Ridge CO Real Estate

Located in Jefferson County, Wheat Ridge, Colorado is considered a western suburb of Denver. With an estimated population of almost 33,000, Interstate I-70 serves the area as it meanders though the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Although a city with five retail centers, several unique small industries and more than 20 parks, open space and equestrian trails, Wheat Ridge is primarily a section reserved for residences.

According to Wheat Ridge real estate data, the average estimated value of a home in the area was $181,522 in June 2010, which is down 0.04% from May 2010. As of August 1, 2010, there were 139 active residential listings and according to Wheat Ridge CO real estate figures, the median price for a home is $249,900 and the average price is $293,400. The average price per square foot is $130.

Known for its slower pace of life, Wheat Ridge is dotted with quaint shops of all types as well as upscale boutiques. The old frontier world and the modern cosmos cross paths and meld perfectly, although surrounding neighborhoods such as Littleton and Belmar have seen much more rapid growth in the last few years.

Founded in 1859 at the time of the frantic Gold Rush, Wheat Ridge, Colorado began its life as a humble farming community that supported Denver and the nearby mining communities. Until the mid-twentieth century, the area was known as the world largest producer of carnations. Incorporated in August of 1969, the origin of the name Wheat Ridge is credited to Senator Henry Lee who referred to the traffic across the Overland Trail passing through the ridges where the wheat was grown. This led to the expression that they were “going through the wheat ridges” and hence the area’s unique moniker.

After the wheat era of the town’s early years, local farmers became prosperous and well known for growing other fruits and vegetables that were sold in markets in Denver, Central City, and Black Hawk. By 1880, Wheat Ridge was an established community and during this decade a colorful and important local figure known as WW. Wilmore opened up his famous Dahlia Nursery. The Wheat Ridge Historical Park sits on the site of an original 160-acre property known as the Braugh Homestead and includes the landmark Sod House, which is a museum dedicated to the history of the area.

Residents love the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center. This incredible, 70,000 square foot public facility has something for absolutely everyone. It has, among other things, an indoor pool with a 120-foot slide, fountains, smaller slides for children, aerobics classes, fitness and resistance training. All the more amazing is the fact that there is no membership fee or residency requirement to use any of the facilities. Just bring your smile (and your clothes, of course).

If you are looking for a quiet place to live and grow, Wheat Ridge CO may well be your dream city. Check it out and stay a while. You may have found your new home.