Aurora

by The Linguist

Aurora, Colorado

With a population of over 386,261 as of 2022, Aurora is the third largest city in Colorado behind Denver and Colorado Springs. Located in Arapahoe County, Aurora is part of the Denver metropolitan area and is one of the fastest growing cities in the state.

History

Aurora was founded in 1891 as part of the western movement into the Denver area. Early settlers were farmers and merchants supplying miners during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush. The town was named after Aurora, Illinois, which was named after the Roman goddess of dawn “Aurora.”

For more on the history of Aurora, visit the Aurora, Colorado Wikipedia page.

Population and Demographics

According to recent census data, Aurora has a population of 386,261 residents, making it the 54th most populous city in the United States. The city has seen rapid growth over the last couple decades, more than doubling in size since 1980. Once predominantly white, Aurora has diversified and now has significant Hispanic (29.3%), African American (16.7%), and Asian (5.8%) populations.

Economy and Major Employers

Aurora has a diverse economy with a focus on aerospace, bioscience, defense contracting, and healthcare. Some of the major employers in Aurora include:

  • Buckley Space Force Base – 12,600 employees
  • The Children’s Hospital Colorado – 5,446 employees
  • Raytheon Company – 5,000 employees
  • University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus – 5,000 employees
  • Aurora Public Schools – 4,773 employees
  • Kaiser Permanente – 3,900 employees

For more on the economy and business in Aurora, visit the Aurora Economic Development Council website at 5690 DTC Blvd #100, Greenwood Village, CO 80111, (303) 326-8693.

Attractions and Landmarks

Some of the top attractions and landmarks in Aurora include:

Aurora History Museum

15051 E Alameda Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80012
(303) 739-6666

This museum houses exhibits on the history and culture of Aurora with artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays.

Aurora Sports Park

19300 E. Colfax Ave
Aurora, CO 80011
(303) 326-8700

This large sports complex has softball and baseball fields, soccer fields, tennis courts, and an archery range.

Cherry Creek State Park

4201 S Parker Rd, Aurora, CO 80014
(303) 690-1166

Located partly in Aurora, this beautiful state park offers boating, fishing, camping, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation.

Delaney Farm

2051 S Peoria St, Aurora, CO 80014

A living history farm and hands-on agricultural museum depicting late 19th century farm life.

Morrison Nature Center

16002 E Smith Rd, Aurora, CO 80011
(303) 326-8425

Nature center with exhibits on wildlife, hands-on displays, nature trails, and community programs.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Aurora and the Denver metro area is provided by the Regional Transportation District (RTD). The city is served by multiple light rail and bus routes providing access across the city and to downtown Denver.

Learn more at the RTD website or
1600 Blake St
Denver, CO 80202
(303) 299-6000

Public Library

The Aurora Public Library serves the city with multiple branch locations providing books, media, computer access, classes, and events.

Central Library
14949 E Alameda Pkwy
Aurora, CO 80012
(303) 739-6600

Learn more at the Aurora Public Library website.

School Districts

Public schools in Aurora are served by Aurora Public Schools, the fifth largest district in Colorado. The district has more than 40,000 students across more than 50 schools.

Aurora Public Schools website
15751 E 1st Ave Suite 206
Aurora, CO 80011
(303) 365-7800

Some Aurora residents are also served by Cherry Creek Schools, Adams 12 Five Star Schools, and Bennett School District depending on location.

Local Resources

Here are some other useful local resources in Aurora:

Map of Aurora

Aurora Landmarks

Cherry Creek State Park

4201 S Parker Rd, Aurora, CO 80014
GPS Coordinates: 39.6367, -104.7578

Aurora Sports Park

19300 E. Colfax Ave, Aurora, CO 80011
GPS Coordinates: 39.7383, -104.7614

Aurora History Museum

15051 E Alameda Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80012
GPS Coordinates: 39.7195, -104.8181