University Hill neighborhood in Boulder with Victorian homes and The Hill commercial district

Neighborhood Guide

University Hills

Boulder, Colorado

A vibrant, walkable neighborhood with Victorian charm and college-town energy. Located between the CU Boulder campus and the foothills, University Hills offers an eclectic lifestyle unlike anywhere else in Boulder.

Overview

About University Hills

University Hill, locally known as "The Hill," is one of Boulder's oldest and most vibrant neighborhoods. Developed in 1890 as a residential area for University of Colorado faculty and staff, the neighborhood is characterized by its Victorian and Tudor-inspired architecture, including early 1900s bungalows and multistory homes. Its hilly streets and big trees create a picturesque setting between the CU Boulder campus and the Rocky Mountain foothills.

The 13th Street corridor serves as the neighborhood's commercial hub, known simply as "The Hill." This bustling stretch features college-centric establishments like The Sink Restaurant and Bar (a Boulder institution since 1923), Illegal Pete's, The Corner, and a variety of cafes, shops, and music venues. The Hill is also home to CU Boulder's fraternities and sororities, adding to the lively, youthful energy.

University Hills maintains a progressive, eclectic character with a free-spirited vibe. The neighborhood blends student-oriented housing with established residential homes, attracting a diverse mix of students, faculty, professionals, and long-time residents. Cultural attractions like the Fiske Planetarium, the CU Art Museum, and the Natural History Museum are all within walking distance.

AJ's Take

"University Hills is where Boulder's college-town spirit comes alive. As a CU graduate myself, I have a special appreciation for this neighborhood. It offers walkability to campus and downtown, historic homes with character, and a energy you will not find anywhere else in Boulder. It is a great option for CU affiliates, investors, and anyone who wants to be at the center of Boulder's cultural life."

AJ Chamberlin, Professional Broker, RE/MAX Alliance

Lifestyle

Daily Life on The Hill

Walk Score: Very High

Walk to CU campus, Pearl Street Mall, and The Hill's restaurants and shops. Most daily needs are within a few blocks.

CU Campus: 2-minute walk

The neighborhood borders the CU Boulder campus. Ideal for faculty, staff, and graduate students.

Dining & Entertainment

The Sink, Illegal Pete's, The Corner, Half Fast Subs, and multiple coffee shops and music venues on 13th Street.

Commute

5 min to downtown, 2 min to CU, 25 min to Denver, 45 min to DIA.

Housing

Homes in University Hills

Price Range (SFH)

$600K - $1.5M

Historic single-family homes

Price Range (Condo)

$350K - $700K

Condos and multi-unit properties

Housing Mix

Mixed

SFH, rentals, fraternities, condos

Education

Schools Near University Hills

Flatirons Elementary School

Grades K-5 | BVSD | GreatSchools: 8/10

Manhattan Middle School

Grades 6-8 | BVSD | GreatSchools: 7/10

Boulder High School

Grades 9-12 | BVSD | GreatSchools: 8/10

University of Colorado Boulder

Adjacent to the neighborhood. A top-ranked public research university with 35,000+ students.

At a Glance

Key Takeaways

University Hills (The Hill) sits between CU Boulder campus and the foothills with historic Victorian architecture
Developed in 1890 as a residential area for CU faculty and staff, retaining its historic charm
Home to The Sink restaurant (since 1923), a Boulder institution, plus many cafes and music venues
Walkable to CU campus, downtown Pearl Street, and Chautauqua Park
Mixed housing: historic homes, student rentals, condos, and fraternity/sorority houses
Excellent location for CU affiliates, investors, and those who love Boulder's college-town energy

Ready to Explore University Hills?

Whether you are a CU faculty member, an investor, or someone who loves the energy of The Hill, I can help you find the perfect home in this unique neighborhood.

Or email aj@attitudehomes.com