Townhouses for Rent in Colorado: 2025 Complete Renter's Guide
Townhouses for Rent in Colorado: 2025 Complete Renter's Guide
Colorado's booming rental market offers diverse housing options, with townhouses emerging as a popular choice for renters seeking more space, privacy, and amenities than traditional apartments. From Denver's urban townhome communities to mountain-adjacent properties in Boulder and Colorado Springs, finding the right townhouse rental requires understanding local markets, pricing trends, and tenant rights.
Overview of Colorado Townhouse Rental Market
Colorado's townhouse rental market has experienced significant growth, driven by population influx, remote work flexibility, and high single-family home prices pushing renters toward alternative housing. Townhouses offer the perfect middle ground: more space than apartments, outdoor access (patios/yards), and often garages—without the maintenance burdens of single-family homes.
Key Market Statistics (2025):
- Average Townhouse Rent: $1,800-$3,200/month (statewide)
- Denver Metro Average: $2,400-$3,500/month
- Colorado Springs Average: $1,600-$2,400/month
- Boulder Average: $2,800-$4,200/month
- Fort Collins Average: $1,700-$2,600/month
- Vacancy Rate: 4.2% (tighter than national average)
- Year-over-Year Rent Growth: +4.5%
Best Cities for Townhouse Rentals in Colorado
1. Denver
Market Characteristics:
- Largest selection of townhouses (5,000+ available units)
- Neighborhoods: Cherry Creek, Capitol Hill, Highlands, Stapleton (Central Park)
- Rent Range: $2,200-$4,500/month
- Typical Size: 1,200-2,000 sq ft, 2-3 bedrooms
Why Rent Here:
- Urban lifestyle with walkable neighborhoods
- Excellent public transit (RTD light rail)
- Strong job market (tech, healthcare, finance)
- Cultural attractions (museums, restaurants, nightlife)
2. Colorado Springs
Market Characteristics:
- Affordable alternative to Denver (30% lower rents)
- Neighborhoods: Briargate, Wolf Ranch, North Gate, Skyway
- Rent Range: $1,500-$2,800/month
- Typical Size: 1,300-2,200 sq ft, 3-4 bedrooms
Why Rent Here:
- Stunning mountain views (Pikes Peak)
- Outdoor recreation (hiking, biking, climbing)
- Military-friendly (Fort Carson, Air Force Academy nearby)
- Lower cost of living than Front Range cities
3. Boulder
Market Characteristics:
- Premium pricing, high-quality amenities
- Neighborhoods: Gunbarrel, Niwot, North Boulder
- Rent Range: $2,600-$4,800/month
- Typical Size: 1,100-1,900 sq ft, 2-3 bedrooms
Why Rent Here:
- Vibrant college town (CU Boulder)
- Unmatched outdoor access (Flatirons, Pearl Street)
- Highly educated population
- Tech hub (Google, Twitter presence)
4. Fort Collins
Market Characteristics:
- College town affordability (CSU)
- Neighborhoods: Old Town, Harmony Road, Timnath
- Rent Range: $1,600-$2,900/month
- Typical Size: 1,200-2,000 sq ft, 2-3 bedrooms
Why Rent Here:
- Craft brewery capital (New Belgium, Odell's)
- Bike-friendly city with extensive trails
- Strong sense of community
- Growing tech and healthcare sectors
5. Aurora
Market Characteristics:
- Affordable Denver alternative with rapid development
- Neighborhoods: Southlands, Stapleton East, Tallyns Reach
- Rent Range: $1,800-$2,800/month
- Typical Size: 1,300-2,100 sq ft, 3-4 bedrooms
Why Rent Here:
- More affordable than Denver proper
- Diverse cultural community
- Growing job market (medical corridor)
- Easy highway access (I-225, E-470)
6. Lakewood
Market Characteristics:
- West Denver suburbs with mountain proximity
- Neighborhoods: Belmar, Green Mountain, Bear Creek
- Rent Range: $1,900-$3,100/month
- Typical Size: 1,200-1,900 sq ft, 2-3 bedrooms
Why Rent Here:
- Quick access to mountains (30 minutes to skiing)
- Family-friendly with good schools
- Belmar shopping/dining district
- Lower density than Denver
Average Townhouse Rental Prices by Region
| Region | 2-Bed Townhouse | 3-Bed Townhouse | 4-Bed Townhouse |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver Metro | $2,400 | $2,900 | $3,600 |
| Colorado Springs | $1,600 | $2,000 | $2,600 |
| Boulder/Longmont | $2,800 | $3,400 | $4,200 |
| Fort Collins | $1,700 | $2,100 | $2,700 |
| Aurora | $1,800 | $2,200 | $2,800 |
| Pueblo | $1,100 | $1,400 | $1,800 |
| Grand Junction | $1,200 | $1,500 | $1,900 |
| Mountain Towns | $2,500 | $3,200 | $4,500+ |
Prices reflect averages; luxury and newly constructed townhouses command premium pricing.
What to Expect When Renting a Townhouse in Colorado
Typical Townhouse Features:
Layout & Size:
- 2-4 bedrooms, 1.5-3.5 bathrooms
- 1,200-2,500 square feet
- Multi-level design (2-3 stories)
- Open-concept living spaces
Amenities:
- Attached 1-2 car garage
- Private patio or small backyard
- In-unit washer/dryer
- Fireplace (gas or wood-burning)
- Central AC and forced-air heating
- Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom
Community Amenities:
- HOA-maintained landscaping
- Clubhouse with gym/pool (higher-end communities)
- Playgrounds and dog parks
- Trash/recycling service included
- Snow removal (common areas and sometimes driveways)
Utilities Breakdown:
Typically Included in Rent:
- Trash/recycling collection
- Water/sewer
- HOA fees (landscaping, snow removal)
Typically Tenant Responsibility:
- Electricity ($80-$150/month)
- Natural gas heating ($40-$120/month, seasonal)
- Internet/cable ($50-$100/month)
- Renter's insurance ($15-$30/month)
Total Monthly Housing Cost Example:
- Rent: $2,400
- Utilities: $200
- Internet: $70
- Renter's Insurance: $25
- Total: $2,695/month
How to Find Townhouses for Rent in Colorado
Online Rental Platforms:
1. Zillow Rentals
- Most comprehensive Colorado listings
- Advanced filters (pet-friendly, garage, yard)
- 3D virtual tours available
2. Apartments.com
- Strong townhouse category
- Floor plan views and amenity photos
- Application submission portal
3. Trulia
- Heat maps showing local crime, schools, commute times
- "What Locals Say" neighborhood insights
4. Craigslist
- Private landlord listings (often negotiable terms)
- Less competition, more personalized service
- Exercise caution (verify legitimacy)
5. Facebook Marketplace & Local Groups
- Community-specific rental groups (e.g., "Denver Rentals")
- Direct landlord contact
- Word-of-mouth recommendations
Property Management Companies:
National Companies:
- Greystar: Large portfolio across Denver metro
- Fairfield Residential: Luxury townhome communities
- Lincoln Property Company: Multiple Colorado locations
Local Colorado Companies:
- Northco Property Management: Northern Colorado specialist
- Colorado Landmark: Denver metro focus
- Peak Properties: Colorado Springs
Driving Through Neighborhoods:
Look for "For Rent" signs in desirable neighborhoods. Private landlords who don't advertise online may offer:
- More flexible lease terms
- Lower application fees
- Willingness to negotiate pet policies
Townhouse Rental Application Process
Step 1: Pre-Qualification
Before applying, ensure you meet typical landlord requirements:
Income: Monthly income ≥ 2.5-3x monthly rent
- $2,400 rent → $6,000-$7,200/month income required
Credit Score: 620+ (minimum); 680+ for competitive properties
Rental History: Positive references from previous landlords
Employment: Stable job history (6-12 months current employer)
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Prepare these documents in advance:
- Photo ID (driver's license or passport)
- Proof of income (2-3 recent pay stubs or employment letter)
- Tax returns (if self-employed)
- Bank statements (checking/savings, last 2 months)
- Rental history (contact info for previous landlords)
- References (personal and professional)
- Pet information (if applicable): vet records, photos, reference letters
Step 3: Submit Application & Fees
Application Fees: $30-$75 per adult applicant
What Landlords Check:
- Credit report and FICO score
- Criminal background check
- Eviction history
- Income verification
- Previous landlord references
Step 4: Security Deposit & Move-In Costs
Security Deposit: Typically 1-1.5 months' rent ($1,800-$3,600 for $2,400/month townhouse)
First Month's Rent: Due at lease signing
Additional Fees:
- Pet deposit: $200-$500 per pet (refundable)
- Pet fee: $200-$300 per pet (non-refundable)
- Cleaning fee: $150-$300 (some properties)
Total Move-In Costs Example:
- Security Deposit: $2,400
- First Month's Rent: $2,400
- Application Fee: $60
- Pet Deposit: $300
- Total: $5,160
Colorado Tenant Rights and Protections
Security Deposit Laws
Colorado Revised Statute § 38-12-103 governs security deposits:
Return Timeline:
- 1 month or less lease: 72 hours after move-out
- Longer than 1 month: 30 days after move-out (if no deductions)
- With deductions: 60 days maximum with itemized statement
Allowable Deductions:
- Unpaid rent
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Cleaning fees (if property not returned in original condition)
Interest Requirement: No requirement to pay interest on security deposits
Eviction Process
Colorado has landlord-friendly eviction laws:
- 10-Day Demand for Rent: Notice given for non-payment
- Court Filing: After 10 days, landlord can file eviction lawsuit
- Court Hearing: Typically scheduled within 7-10 days
- Writ of Restitution: If landlord wins, sheriff evicts within 48 hours
Total Timeline: 3-4 weeks from first notice to physical eviction
Lease Termination
Fixed-Term Leases:
- Cannot terminate early without penalty (unless clause allows)
- Early termination fees typically 1-2 months' rent
Month-to-Month Leases:
- Either party can terminate with proper notice (typically 30-60 days)
- Check lease for specific notice requirements
Landlord Entry Rights
Colorado law requires "reasonable notice" before landlord entry (typically 24-48 hours) except:
- Emergencies (fire, flood, gas leak)
- Tenant consent given
- Abandonment suspected
Rent Increase Rules
- No rent control in Colorado (state preemption law prohibits it)
- Landlords can increase rent by any amount with proper notice
- Notice Required: 60 days for month-to-month leases (if rent >$1,000)
- Cannot increase during fixed-term lease unless specified
Pet-Friendly Townhouse Rentals
Colorado is a pet-friendly state with high pet ownership rates (62% of households). Many townhouses allow pets, but expect:
Pet Policies:
Allowed Pets:
- Dogs (with breed/weight restrictions)
- Cats (often unlimited or 2-pet max)
Restricted Breeds:
- Pit bulls, Rottweilers, Dobermans, German Shepherds (varies by property)
Weight Limits:
- Small dogs (<25 lbs): Usually accepted
- Medium dogs (25-60 lbs): May require approval
- Large dogs (60+ lbs): Often restricted or prohibited
Pet Fees:
- Pet Rent: $25-$75/month per pet
- Pet Deposit: $200-$500 per pet (refundable)
- Pet Fee: $200-$400 per pet (non-refundable)
Finding Pet-Friendly Townhouses:
Use filters on rental websites: "Pet-Friendly," "Dogs Allowed," "Cats Allowed"
Best Pet-Friendly Areas:
- Highlands/Sloan's Lake (Denver) - dog parks, walking trails
- Old Town (Fort Collins) - pet-friendly businesses
- Briargate (Colorado Springs) - suburban yards and trails
Tips for Securing Your Dream Townhouse
1. Act Quickly
Colorado's rental market is competitive. Quality townhouses rent within 3-7 days of listing.
Best Practices:
- Check listings daily (morning and evening)
- Schedule tours immediately
- Apply same day if interested
2. Offer to Pay More Upfront
If you're competing with other applicants, offer:
- 2-3 months' rent upfront
- Larger security deposit
- Longer lease term (18-24 months)
3. Provide a Rental Resume
Create a one-page document including:
- Employment history
- Rental history with references
- Credit score (if excellent)
- Personal references
- Pet information (if applicable)
4. Be Flexible on Move-In Date
Landlords prefer tenants who can move in quickly or wait for their preferred timeline. Flexibility increases your chances.
5. Write a Personal Introduction Letter
Attach a brief, professional letter introducing yourself:
Dear [Landlord Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I'm excited about renting your townhouse at [Address]. I'm a [profession] at [Company] with stable income and excellent rental history. I've lived in Colorado for [X years] and value maintaining clean, well-kept homes.
I'm a responsible tenant who pays rent on time, respects property, and communicates proactively. [Include relevant details: non-smoker, quiet, no parties, etc.]
Attached are my application materials and references. I'm happy to provide any additional information you need. Thank you for considering me as your tenant.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Phone | Email]
Townhouse Rental Scams to Avoid
Red Flags:
🚩 Too Good to Be True Pricing: Rent 30-50% below market rate
🚩 Landlord Can't Show Property: Excuses like "traveling overseas"
🚩 Pressure to Send Money Immediately: Before viewing or signing lease
🚩 Wire Transfer or Gift Card Payments: Legitimate landlords use checks/bank transfers
🚩 No Written Lease: Verbal agreements only
🚩 Landlord Has No Ownership Proof: Can't show title or property tax records
Protection Tips:
- Always tour property in person
- Verify landlord identity (property tax records, HOA confirmation)
- Never wire money or send gift cards
- Use secure payment methods (checks, bank transfers)
- Get everything in writing
Best Time to Rent a Townhouse in Colorado
Peak Season (May-September):
Characteristics:
- Highest inventory (people moving during summer)
- More competition (families moving before school year)
- Higher rents (seasonal demand surge)
Pros: More options
Cons: Competition, higher prices
Off-Season (October-April):
Characteristics:
- Lower inventory (fewer people moving in winter)
- Less competition
- Better negotiating leverage
- Potential rent discounts (10-15%)
Pros: Lower prices, negotiate better terms
Cons: Fewer listings
Best Strategy: Start searching in March-April for May move-ins (avoid peak competition, still good inventory).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are townhouses cheaper than apartments in Colorado?
Not always. Townhouses typically cost 10-30% more than comparable apartment units because of additional space, garages, and yards. However, cost-per-square-foot may favor townhouses.
Q: Do I have to pay HOA fees when renting a townhouse?
Usually, no. Landlords typically pay HOA fees and include them in your rent. Verify in your lease.
Q: Can I make modifications to a rental townhouse (paint, install fixtures)?
Only with written landlord permission. Most leases prohibit modifications without approval. Always ask before making changes.
Q: What is the average lease term for townhouses in Colorado?
Most townhouse leases are 12 months. Shorter (6-9 month) and longer (18-24 month) leases are sometimes available, often at premium or discounted rates respectively.
Q: Do townhouses include appliances?
Most Colorado townhouse rentals include:
- Refrigerator
- Stove/oven
- Dishwasher
- Microwave
- Washer/dryer (in-unit or hookups)
Check listings for specifics.
Q: Can I sublet my townhouse rental?
Only if your lease allows it (most don't). Subletting without permission violates your lease and can result in eviction.
Q: Are utilities more expensive in townhouses vs. apartments?
Yes, typically. Townhouses have more space to heat/cool and often charge tenants for all utilities. Budget an additional $150-$300/month compared to apartments.
Resources for Colorado Renters
- Colorado Legal Services: Free legal aid for low-income tenants
- Colorado Division of Housing: State housing authority
- Metro Denver Homeless Initiative: Rental assistance programs
- Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA): First-time homebuyer programs (if considering transition from renting)
- Local Tenant Advocacy Groups: Denver Metro Area Tenants United, Colorado Springs Tenants Union
Conclusion
Renting a townhouse in Colorado offers renters the space, privacy, and amenities that apartments can't match—without the responsibilities of homeownership. With rental prices ranging from $1,600-$4,200/month depending on location, townhouses cater to families, professionals, and anyone seeking a higher quality of life.
By understanding market trends, knowing your rights as a Colorado tenant, and acting quickly in competitive markets, you can secure the perfect townhouse rental for your needs and budget.
Need to calculate late fees if your rent payment is delayed? Use our Colorado rent late fee calculator to understand your obligations under Colorado law.
This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult local real estate professionals and tenant rights organizations for specific guidance.