The Denver metro area offers dozens of coworking spaces to choose from. How do you find the one that’s right for your needs, without going on endless tours or spending hours browsing options online?
In this post, we’ll help you cut through the clutter. We’ve put together nine steps to select the right coworking space for you. Read on to discover how to find a space that balances location, amenities, vibes, and cost.
9 Steps for Choosing the Best Coworking Space in Denver
The best coworking space for you will depend on your needs and priorities. Follow the steps below to pick a space that will inspire you to do your best work.
Step 1: What Type of Coworking Space Do You Need?
The first thing to consider is the type of coworking space you need.
Do you just want a quiet desk in a shared space? Or would you prefer a private office with a door you can shut? Perhaps you even need a space to meet clients?
In each of these scenarios, the best type of space for you will differ.
Another related factor to consider is your budget.
Shared spaces tend to be the cheapest, with memberships available for under $100 per month. Private offices, meanwhile, can cost quite a bit more depending on the size of the space. Most Denver coworking spaces cost $100–$800 per month.
Step 2: Look for the Nearest Coworking Space
The best coworking space is the one you’ll actually use. So be sure to pick a location that’s close by and easy to access.
Candy Factory Coworking, for instance, is conveniently located in downtown Denver near public transit, bikeways, and major interstates.
Also, consider options for parking. Some coworking spaces have parking onsite, but this usually comes at an extra fee. Locations in denser areas may also have free street parking nearby.
Step 3: Compare Coworking Space Costs
Once you’ve narrowed down your preferred coworking location, the next thing to consider is cost.
The membership fee will be your biggest expense. It can range from $200/month for a hot desking membership to $2,500+ for a large private office.
For example, here’s how the pricing breaks down for the major offerings at Candy Factory Coworking:
Membership Type | Price | Notes |
Day Pass | $25/day | Includes access to internet, coffee, tea, snacks, copier/printer, and phone booths |
Hot Desk | $200/month | 24/7 access, includes amenities like tea/coffee, internet, and more |
Dedicated Desk | $500+/month | Reserved desk with lockable storage, 24/7 access |
Private Office (3-person) | $807+/month | Furnished office with amenities, 24/7 access |
Private Office (5-person) | $1,200+/month | Furnished office with amenities, 24/7 access |
Private Office (10-person) | $2,550+/month | Furnished office with amenities, 24/7 access |
Remote Learning Pass | $75/month | 7 days/month access, weekdays 8 am–5 pm |
Virtual Office | $45–$90/month | Mail handling and meeting room access |
Don’t forget to consider other hidden costs beyond the membership fee, such as:
- Printing
- Meeting space bookings
- Parking
These expenses may seem small day-to-day, but they can add up over time.
Step 4: Book A Coworking Tour
After you compare coworking space costs, we recommend touring the top places you’re considering. Most coworking spaces offer free tours or even a free day pass to prospective members.
During your tour, consider these questions:
- Does the space feel welcoming?
- Is the Wi-Fi fast enough for virtual meetings and Zoom calls?
- How easy was the commute?
- Does the ambiance inspire and excite you?
- Will the space make a good impression on clients and colleagues?
Additionally, be sure to meet the space’s community manager. They’ll usually be your tour guide, and they can answer any questions you have. Candy Factory Coworking, for instance, is managed by Jose De La Torre.
Since the community manager will also be your main point of contact if you join the coworking space, make sure to evaluate how helpful and friendly they are.
Step 5: Check the Amenities
Coworking spaces know that amenities are one of their major selling points, so the best spaces compete to offer amenities members will love.
When you’re touring and evaluating coworking spaces in Denver, look out for these must-have amenities:
- Fast Wi-Fi
- Free coffee, tea, and snacks
- Phone booths for calls
- Quiet areas for focused work
Depending on your preferences, also consider if the space offers these nice-to-have perks:
- Rooftop views
- Bike storage
- Dog-friendly
- Breakfast, lunch, or other meals
- Happy hour
- Yoga or fitness rooms
- Ergonomic furniture like standing desks
You can usually find information about a space’s amenities on their website, but don’t be afraid to ask about it during your tour as well.
Step 6: Read Google Reviews
Taking a tour is a great way to tell whether you’ll like a coworking space. But don’t forget to check online reviews on Google and Yelp, too.
Reviews from existing members can offer valuable insights. We recommend looking out for comments about Wi-Fi speeds, pricing, and coworking space staff.
Candy Factory Coworking, for example, has a 4.9/5 rating on Google for its friendly staff and stellar event rental spaces.
Step 7: Try a Free Day Pass
Many coworking spaces, including Candy Factory Coworking, offer a free day pass. This gives you a chance to experience the space as a member would.
To make the most of your day pass, be sure to try as much as possible:
- Go through your normal work routine
- Test out the amenities
- Explore the surrounding neighborhood
- Evaluate the noise levels, lighting, and furniture
- Chat with other members to assess the community vibe
Step 8: Meet the Community
Good coworking spaces host events like happy hours, guest speakers, and workshops.
Many of these events are open to the public, so they’re a great chance to meet other members in a casual setting and see if they’re your type of people.
You can usually find a calendar of upcoming events on the coworking space’s website.
Step 9: Ask About Flexibility
You’ve done your research, taken a tour, and maybe even tried a free day pass.
But before you sign up for a membership, be sure to read the fine print. Ask the space’s community manager about the length of commitment they require.
Generally, coworking memberships will offer month-to-month plans. Private office rentals, meanwhile, usually come with a longer minimum commitment.
Avoid spaces that lock you into a year-long lease, and ask about flexible, shorter-term leases. Candy Factory Coworking, for instance, offers 6-month office leases for members who don’t want to commit to an entire year.
Why Is Candy Factory Coworking the Best Coworking Space in Denver?
Choosing a Denver coworking space can feel like a daunting task. But now that you’ve read this guide, you should be well-equipped to find a space that meets (or even exceeds) your needs.
To recap, here are the steps we recommend during your search:
- Decide what type of coworking space you need.
- Find a coworking space with a good location.
- Compare coworking space costs, including fees for printing and parking.
- Book a coworking space tour.
- Check out the space’s amenities.
- Read reviews on Google and other sites.
- Try a free day pass.
- Attend coworking space events to meet existing members.
- Ask about flexible membership and lease options.
When you go through the above steps, you’ll see that Candy Factory Coworking is a top choice for remote workers, small business owners, and students looking for a workspace in the heart of Denver.
Want to see what the excitement is about? Give our space a try!