Gunbarrel, Boulder,CO

If you're considering a move to Boulder, CO, the neighborhood of Gunbarrel, situated in the north east part of the city, offers a unique blend of suburban comfort and outdoor adventure. Known for its friendly community vibe, Gunbarrel is perfect for families, young professionals, and anyone looking for a quieter lifestyle without straying too far from city amenities. The area boasts a variety of housing options, from charming single-family homes to newer developments, providing something for every taste and budget. Residents appreciate the balance of peaceful streets and easy access to the natural beauty that Colorado is famous for.

One of the standout features of Gunbarrel is its proximity to the expansive Boulder Reservoir, a popular spot for swimming, boating, fishing, and picnicking during the warmer months. The neighborhood also offers plenty of parks and open spaces, such as Gunbarrel Community Park and the nearby Walker Ranch Open Space, which are perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the stunning mountain views. For those who love a bit of local flavor, Gunbarrel has a charming shopping district with unique boutiques, cozy cafes, and well-loved eateries. The community-oriented events here foster a welcoming atmosphere that helps newcomers feel at home quickly.

While Gunbarrel enjoys a peaceful suburban feel, it’s only about a 15-minute drive from Downtown Boulder, making it easy to enjoy the vibrant city life whenever you want. Downtown Boulder offers a bustling scene with its famous Pearl Street Mall, featuring street performers, eclectic shops, and a wide variety of restaurants and breweries. This close proximity means you get the best of both worlds—relaxing neighborhood living with quick access to cultural events, nightlife, and major employers. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or simply a change of pace, Gunbarrel provides an inviting community with plenty to offer.

In Gunbarrel, 19% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 19% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Gunbarrel demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 8,292, the number of residents who reside in Gunbarrel is about average in size compared to other Boulder neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

With a lower than average population density of 1,333 people per square mile, Gunbarrel offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Boulder neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 48, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

The Gunbarrel crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Gunbarrel, home prices come in around $722,525, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Gunbarrel can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $2,172, rental rates in Gunbarrel are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Gunbarrel. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Gunbarrel offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.