Cities and Towns in Adams County, Colorado
Founded on 1902/11/15, Adams County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. Historically, Adams County was split from Arapahoe County. The city of Brighton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 1, Adams County has a population of 522,140 and area of 1,182.29 square miles (3,062 km²).
List of all cities in Adams County, CO alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Adams City, CO | 80022 | 303/720 |
| Aurora, CO | 80011 | 303/720 |
| 80019 | 303/720 | |
| 80040 | 303/720 | |
| 80042 | 303/720 | |
| 80045 | 303/720 | |
| Bennett, CO | 80102 | 303/720 |
| Brighton, CO | 80022 | 303/720 |
| 80601 | 303/720 | |
| 80602 | 303/720 | |
| Broomfield, CO | 80234 | 303/720 |
| Buckley Air National Guard Base, CO | 80011 | 303/720 |
| Commerce City, CO | 80022 | 303/720 |
| 80037 | 303/720 | |
| Denver, CO | 80022 | 303/720 |
| 80030 | 303/720 | |
| 80031 | 303/720 | |
| 80221 | 303/720 | |
| 80229 | 303/720 | |
| 80233 | 303/720 | |
| 80234 | 303/720 | |
| 80241 | 303/720 | |
| 80260 | 303/720 | |
| Dupont, CO | 80024 | 303/720 |
| East Lake, CO | 80241 | 303/720 |
| Eastlake, CO | 80241 | 303/720 |
| 80614 | 303/720 | |
| Federal Heights, CO | 80221 | 303/720 |
| 80234 | 303/720 | |
| 80260 | 303/720 | |
| Henderson, CO | 80640 | 303/720 |
| Irondale, CO | 80022 | 303/720 |
| Northglenn, CO | 80221 | 303/720 |
| 80233 | 303/720 | |
| 80234 | 303/720 | |
| 80241 | 303/720 | |
| 80260 | 303/720 | |
| Strasburg, CO | 80136 | 303/720 |
| Thornton, CO | 80221 | 303/720 |
| 80229 | 303/720 | |
| 80233 | 303/720 | |
| 80234 | 303/720 | |
| 80241 | 303/720 | |
| 80260 | 303/720 | |
| 80601 | 303/720 | |
| 80602 | 303/720 | |
| Watkins, CO | 80137 | 303/720 |
| Welby, CO | 80229 | 303/720 |
| Westminster, CO | 80030 | 303/720 |
| 80031 | 303/720 | |
| 80035 | 303/720 | |
| 80036 | 303/720 | |
| 80221 | 303/720 | |
| 80234 | 303/720 | |
| 80241 | 303/720 | |
| 80260 | 303/720 |
Major Cities and Towns in Adams County, Colorado
Thornton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 36.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 141,867 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 80023, 80229, 80233, 80241, 80260
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.8680° N, 104.9719° W
Location and History
Thornton is one of the fastest-growing cities in Adams County, located just 10 miles north of downtown Denver. The city was founded in 1953 as the first fully planned community in Adams County and was named after Dan Thornton, the governor of Colorado at the time. Thornton was designed with a focus on residential development, with careful planning for parks, schools, and commercial areas. The city’s proximity to Denver has made it an attractive location for commuters, leading to rapid population growth over the years. Today, Thornton is a thriving suburban community with a diverse population and a strong focus on family-friendly amenities and services.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Thornton is served by several school districts, including Adams 12 Five Star Schools, with Horizon High School and Thornton High School being the primary educational institutions. The city is also home to several charter and private schools. Major landmarks in Thornton include the Margaret W. Carpenter Recreation Center, which offers a variety of recreational facilities and programs for residents, and the Thornton Arts & Culture Center, which hosts events and exhibits that celebrate the city’s cultural diversity. The Rocky Top Middle School features a state-of-the-art performing arts center that is used for community events. Thornton’s extensive parks system, including the popular Carpenter Park and Trail Winds Park, provides residents with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Brighton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 21.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 40,083 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 80601, 80602, 80603
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.9853° N, 104.8205° W
Location and History
Brighton is a city located in the northeastern part of Adams County, serving as the county seat. The city was founded in the 1870s as a railroad depot and agricultural community, originally known as Hughes Station. It was renamed Brighton after Brighton Beach, New York, reflecting the aspirations of its early settlers. Brighton’s location along major transportation routes, including the Denver Pacific Railroad, contributed to its growth as an agricultural center. The city became known for its sugar beet farms and canning factories, which were major contributors to the local economy. Today, Brighton is a vibrant community with a mix of historic charm and modern amenities, maintaining its agricultural roots while embracing new development.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Brighton is served by the Brighton 27J School District, with Brighton High School and Eagle Ridge Academy being key educational institutions. The city is also home to the Brighton Heritage Academy, offering alternative education options. Major landmarks in Brighton include the Brighton Armory Performing Arts Center, a historic building that hosts a variety of cultural events and performances, and the Brighton Oasis Family Aquatic Park, a popular summer destination for families. The Barr Lake State Park, located just outside the city, offers opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and hiking, with scenic views of the Front Range. Brighton’s historic downtown area features a mix of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, reflecting the city’s rich history and community spirit.
Commerce City
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 36.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 62,418 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 80022, 80601, 80603, 80216
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.8083° N, 104.9339° W
Location and History
Commerce City is an industrial hub located just northeast of Denver, known for its strong ties to the oil refining and manufacturing industries. The city was incorporated in 1952, but its history dates back to the 19th century when it served as a farming community and a transportation center due to its proximity to the South Platte River and major railroads. The establishment of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal during World War II and the later development of the Suncor Energy oil refinery significantly shaped the city’s industrial landscape. Today, Commerce City is undergoing significant growth and transformation, with new residential developments, parks, and retail centers contributing to its evolution into a more diverse and vibrant community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Commerce City is served by several school districts, including Adams 14 School District, with Adams City High School being the primary educational institution. The city is also home to the newly constructed Victory Preparatory Academy and a variety of charter schools. Major landmarks in Commerce City include the Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, a state-of-the-art soccer stadium that serves as the home of the Colorado Rapids Major League Soccer team, and the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, which offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and educational programs on the area’s natural history. The Commerce City Civic Center features a public library and community spaces, while the Mile High Flea Market is a popular destination for shopping and entertainment.
Northglenn
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 7.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 38,131 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 80233, 80234, 80260
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.8962° N, 104.9819° W
Location and History
Northglenn is a suburban city located in the western part of Adams County, just north of Denver. The city was developed in the late 1950s and early 1960s as a master-planned community, designed to offer a suburban lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities. Northglenn was officially incorporated in 1969, and its development was closely tied to the post-World War II suburban boom. The city’s layout includes a mix of residential neighborhoods, parks, and commercial areas, making it an attractive location for families and professionals. Today, Northglenn is known for its well-maintained parks, strong community spirit, and focus on sustainability and smart growth.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Northglenn is served by the Adams 12 Five Star Schools district, with Northglenn High School being the primary educational institution. The city is also home to the Northglenn Arts and Humanities Foundation, which supports arts education and cultural programs in the community. Major landmarks in Northglenn include the E.B. Rains Jr. Memorial Park, a popular spot for outdoor activities with a lake, playgrounds, and walking trails, and the Northglenn Recreation Center, which offers fitness facilities, sports programs, and community events. The Northglenn Marketplace is a key shopping and dining destination, reflecting the city’s commercial vibrancy. Northglenn’s annual Pirate Fest, a family-friendly event celebrating pirate lore with games, entertainment, and a parade, is a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar.
Westminster (partially in Adams County)
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 34.0 square miles (citywide, partial in Adams County)
- Population: Approximately 116,317 (2020 Census, citywide)
- Zip Codes: 80003, 80005, 80020, 80021, 80031, 80234
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.8367° N, 105.0372° W
Location and History
Westminster is a city that straddles both Adams and Jefferson Counties, located northwest of Denver. The area was first settled in the late 19th century, with the establishment of the Westminster Castle (originally Westminster University) in 1891 being a significant milestone in the city’s development. Westminster grew as a residential suburb in the mid-20th century, benefiting from its location along major highways and its proximity to Denver. The city was incorporated in 1911 and has since developed into a major suburban community with a diverse economy, including retail, technology, and healthcare sectors. Westminster is known for its blend of historic charm and modern development, offering a high quality of life for its residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Westminster is served by several school districts, including Adams 12 Five Star Schools and Jefferson County Public Schools, with Westminster High School being a key educational institution. The city is also home to Front Range Community College’s Westminster campus, offering a variety of academic programs. Major landmarks in Westminster include the Westminster Center Park, known for its “Peter Pan” themed playground, and the Butterfly Pavilion, a unique attraction featuring a tropical rainforest habitat with over 1,200 butterflies. The historic Westminster Castle, also known as “The Pillar of Fire,” is a striking landmark that reflects the city’s early history. Westminster’s extensive trail system, including the Big Dry Creek Trail, provides residents with opportunities for outdoor recreation and connects many of the city’s parks and open spaces.
Map of Cities in Adams County, CO
