Welcome back!! We have been out here for 16 years and love it. I guess it all depends on what you are looking for. We used to live in Longmont (north of Erie) and made the commute to Denver and like Jess said it does get backed up pretty good. But living up there gives you more options for riding. What I have found is that once you get down near Thornton the riding will get pretty crazy due to traffice.

As for places to live/rent like any town there are some sketchy spots in Thornton..like Washington Street near 88th and the surrounding area Also some areas of Federal Heights which is kind of close to Thornton is not the best. Do you think you can find a short term rental place just to get you a place to stay until you find a place that will meet your needs? What I mean by short is week to week that way you will not have pressure to find something quick and you will not be tied down to a lease in an area you don't want to be in.

Wow...you have a lot to do in a little time. Good luck!!