If you’re thinking about moving to Denver, you’re not alone. With its booming job market, thriving cultural scene, and convenient access to the outdoors, it’s clear why it’s on many shortlists.
In recent years, the Mile High City has become one of the fastest-growing cities in the country; according to our 2024-2025 Millennial Study, it’s the 11th top destination that millennials move to at rates higher than the national average. Denver also ranks as one of the most pet-friendly U.S. cities, making it a great new home for pet owners.
But moving to any new city is a major decision that requires you to consider many factors, from career prospects to lifestyle preferences. This guide will help you evaluate if Denver is the right fit for you, covering everything from the cost of living to job opportunities, so you can make an informed decision about your move.
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The Short Version: Is Denver Right for You?
Denver is an especially good place to live for people who love the outdoors, seek a vibrant cultural scene, and want a city with a youthful, active vibe. It’s also an excellent option for those who can handle higher living costs in exchange for strong job opportunities, particularly in tech, health care, and energy sectors.
“The estimated salary needed to live comfortably in Denver ($63,048) is comparable to that of Phoenix and Salt Lake City, but significantly less than what you’d need in Seattle or Portland.”
However, if you’re sensitive to altitude changes, prefer consistently warm weather, dislike driving in snow, or are looking for the most affordable housing market, Denver might not check all your boxes.
Why Denver Is So Popular Right Now
The Denver Metropolitan Area has seen consistent population growth for many years, with thousands of new residents arriving due to the city’s combination of economic opportunities and high quality of life. Here’s why many people are choosing Denver:
- Jobs and growth: The Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metro has recorded steady job growth over the last decade across tech, aerospace, health care, and finance sectors. The area’s unemployment rate typically sits near or below the national average, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
- Outdoor lifestyle: With a sunny, semiarid climate and the Rocky Mountains about an hour away, Denver offers year-round recreational activities such as biking, trail running, skiing, climbing, and fishing.
- Culture: The city has a thriving food and music scene, plus professional sports teams and nationally recognized cultural institutions, including the Denver Art Museum and the Museum of Illusions.
- Millennial magnet: According to our Millennial Study, Colorado leads the nation in millennial migration, with the Denver-Aurora area ranking among the top metros for young professionals.
What It’s Like Living in Denver, Colorado
Living in Denver means getting the best of both worlds: urban convenience and outdoor adventure. From its 250 days of sunshine to its booming job scene and friendly neighborhoods, the Mile High City blends adventure with accessibility.
Here’s what daily life looks like in the Mile High City:
- Vibe and culture: Denver has a laid-back, active, and friendly atmosphere. People here embrace a healthy, outdoor-oriented lifestyle, and love to explore the city’s thriving arts, music, and food scene.
- Climate and natural environment: Expect about 250 days of sunshine annually, mild summers, and snowy winters. On the other hand, the high altitude means that you’ll have to adapt to lower humidity and more intense UV rays.
- Neighborhoods and housing: Denver’s neighborhoods each have a unique character, from historic homes in Capitol Hill to modern apartments in LoDo. However, housing costs are above the U.S. average.
- Transportation and commute: While Denver has a decent public transit system (e.g., buses and light rail), many residents still rely on cars. Traffic is challenging during peak hours, especially on major roads leading into and out of the city.
- Job Market and economy: Denver’s economy is growing, particularly in tech, aerospace, health care, and energy sectors. Salaries are competitive, but so is the housing market.
- Challenges and tradeoffs: Rapid growth has led to increased traffic and higher housing costs. Some newcomers find it difficult to adjust to the altitude at first.
- Community and social life: Denver is known for its friendly residents and strong community spirit. There are numerous festivals, events, and a vibrant cultural scene that makes it easy to meet new people.
- Lifestyle considerations: If you love outdoor activities, craft beer, and a generally active lifestyle, you’ll feel right at home in Denver. The city is also incredibly pet-friendly.
Pros and Cons to Know Before Moving to Denver
Considering a move to a new city always involves weighing the good against the not-so-good. And living in Denver is much the same. Here are some of the perks and some of the challenges to be aware of before packing your bags.
Pros of Moving to Denver
- Outdoor access: With the Rocky Mountains practically in your backyard, you’ll have access to world-class skiing, hiking, and biking.
- Thriving job market: The city’s economy is strong, particularly in tech, aerospace, health, and renewable energy, offering diverse job opportunities.
- Climate: Winter temperatures are generally milder than in northern cities, and the low humidity makes both summer heat and winter cold feel manageable.
- Culture and events: Denver has numerous museums, live music venues, and a diverse food scene with everything from farm-to-table restaurants to craft breweries.
- Pet-friendly: The city has plenty of dog parks, patios, and trails, plus many pet-welcoming establishments.
Cons of Moving to Denver
- High cost of living: Housing prices, both for rent and purchase, are significantly higher than the national average. Other expenses, like groceries and utilities, can also add up.
- Traffic and parking: Traffic congestion, especially during rush hour and on weekends heading to the mountains, can be frustrating. Parking can also be a challenge in popular areas.
- Wildfires: During their season, these natural disasters can affect air quality and travel.
- Altitude sickness: The Mile High City lives up to its name. Some people experience altitude sickness initially, which can include headaches and shortness of breath, requiring an adjustment period.
- Public transit limitations: The local transit system works for some commutes and events, but many residents end up driving.
- Winter weather (for some): Although generally sunny, Denver’s winters can bring significant snowfall and cold temperatures, which might be a negative for those who prefer warmer climates year-round.
Cost of Living in Denver vs. Other Cities
Before moving to Denver, Colorado, it helps to see how everyday costs stack up against similar cities. Use the figures below as a starting point to gauge housing, rent, and the estimated salary needed to live comfortably in various popular cities as a single person with no dependents. Your actual budget will vary based on household size, debt, and lifestyle.
| City | Median Home Price | Average Rent | Estimated Salary Needed to Live Comfortably |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver, CO | $536,942 | $1,931 | $63,048 |
| Salt Lake City, UT | $558,243 | $1,632 | $60,672 |
| Portland, OR | $523,883 | $1,793 | $75,624 |
| Seattle, WA | $847,975 | $2,244 | $89,628 |
| Boulder, CO | $940,250 | $2,503 | $74,232 |
| Colorado Springs, CO | $449,746 | $1,778 | $60,900 |
| Minneapolis, MN | $325,076 | $1,642 | $54,264 |
| Raleigh, NC | $437,337 | $1,644 | $56,124 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $408,114 | $1,642 | $62,436 |
| Dallas, TX | $306,602 | $1,671 | $58,056 |
| Nashville, TN | $436,951 | $1,849 | $58,152 |
| San Diego, CA | $982,733 | $3,077 | $89,376 |
| Boise, ID | $490,587 | $1,764 | $59,160 |
| Albuquerque, NM | $339,156 | $1,549 | $56,832 |
| Portland, ME | $563,289 | $2,456 | $76,320 |
How Denver Compares
While Denver isn’t the most expensive city in the United States, it’s also not the cheapest. Here are how some of the costs compare to elsewhere in the country:
- Denver’s median home price of around $537,000 is high, but it’s significantly more attainable than that of Seattle ($848,000) or San Diego ($983,000). Even its in-state neighbor, Boulder, has a much steeper median home price of over $940,000.
- Cities like Phoenix ($408,000) and Dallas ($307,000) offer more affordable housing.
- Rent follows a similar pattern, with Denver’s average rent being higher than in places like Salt Lake City or Minneapolis but lower than in Seattle or San Diego.
- The estimated salary needed to live comfortably in Denver ($63,048) is comparable to that of Phoenix and Salt Lake City, but significantly less than what you’d need in Seattle or Portland.
Overall, Denver sits in the middle tier of affordability. It’s not as budget-friendly as Minneapolis or Raleigh, but the cost of living is much more reasonable than in San Diego or Boulder.
The Denver Job Market
Denver’s job market is a major draw for job seekers. As of mid-2025, the metro area’s unemployment rate sits below the national average, with wages higher than the U.S. median. Key industries include:
- Technology: Denver has emerged as a thriving tech hub, with a mix of startups and established companies making their home in the city.
- Aerospace: Colorado has a strong aerospace industry, with many companies and government agencies operating in and around Denver.
- Healthcare: A large and growing sector, driven by major hospital systems and research institutions.
- Energy: Both traditional and renewable energy companies have a strong presence, particularly in oil and gas, as well as solar and wind.
Companies Moving to Denver
Denver’s business environment and quality of life continue to attract new offices and expansions from existing companies. Here are some companies that have moved to or expanded their presence in Denver:
- Palantir Technologies: This data analytics giant (analyzing digital information using software) established a significant presence in Denver, bringing numerous high-tech jobs.
- VF Corporation: The parent company of brands like The North Face, Vans, and Timberland, also relocated its global headquarters to the Denver area.
- Slack: The popular business communication platform expanded its operations in the city.
- Amazon: While not a full corporate relocation, Amazon has significantly expanded its logistics and tech operations in Denver, including fulfillment centers and tech hubs.
Should You Move to Denver? How to Decide
Whether or not you decide to move to Denver depends on your unique situation, lifestyle, and preferences. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to decide if moving to Denver aligns with your budget, career, and day-to-day life.
Step 1 — List Your Priorities
Before you get lost in neighborhood guides and job listings, take a moment to look at your priorities. What is driving your desire to move, and what do you need from a new city? Start by ranking these factors from most to least important for you:
- Affordability: Includes rent or mortgage targets, monthly bills, and savings goals.
- Career growth: Keep in mind that, in addition to considering industry fit, promotion pathways, networking, and remote options for yourself, your family also needs to be able to find jobs in their fields.
- Lifestyle: Denver’s amenities include access to the outdoors, live music, restaurants, sports, and dog-friendly spaces.
- Family needs: Consider school quality, daycare costs, parks, and proximity to relatives.
- Climate: You’ll have to deal with dry air, cold snaps, hail, and sunny days with high UV if you decide to move to Denver.
Give each a 1 to 5 rank. If two priorities tie, ask which one would still matter 5 years from now.
Step 2 — Consider the Pros and Cons of Living in Denver
Take the pros and cons we outlined earlier and weigh them against your personal values. For instance, if you love skiing and hiking, the outdoor access may outweigh the higher housing costs. If you dislike snow, the weather may be a deal-breaker, no matter what else the city has to offer. Be honest with yourself about how each point would genuinely impact your day-to-day happiness.
Also, keep in mind:
- Denver’s altitude can affect health and fitness.
- The city’s growth means more competition for housing and jobs.
- On the plus side, Denver’s community is welcoming and active, which can make it easier to build a social network.
Step 3 — Crunch the Numbers
Now it’s time to consider if you can afford to live in Denver. Use the cost of living data above and online cost of living calculators to get a realistic sense of your potential expenses. Your budget should include all of the following:
- Housing costs: Research actual rental or purchase prices in neighborhoods that match your preferences and commute needs.
- Health care expenses: Compare insurance costs and provider networks if you have specific medical needs.
- Transportation costs: Factor in car ownership, insurance, public transit, and commuting expenses based on your likely work location.
- Discretionary spending: Consider how Denver’s recreational opportunities, dining scene, and entertainment options might affect your budget.
Compare your estimated monthly spending in Denver to your current expenses. Will your potential salary in Denver cover these costs while still allowing you to meet your savings goals? This isn’t the most exciting step, but it’s one of the most important for ensuring your move is financially sound.
Step 4 — Consider Your Career
Your employment situation will heavily influence your moving plan. Ask yourself these questions:
- Are you seeking a new job? Start researching Denver-based companies in your field. Browse LinkedIn and other job boards to see what the demand and salary ranges look like for your role.
- Can you work remotely? If you have a remote job, you have more flexibility. However, confirm with your employer if there are any salary adjustments for moving to a new location.
- Are you transferring with your current company? This is often the smoothest transition. Talk to your HR department about relocation packages and support.
Consider whether Denver offers genuine career advancement opportunities or simply a change of scenery. The city’s strong job market is great, but it’s important that you know how your specific skills and career goals fit into Denver’s economy before you commit. And remember, if you’re moving with family, they also have careers they’ll need to consider.
Step 5 — Review Neighborhoods and Lifestyle Fit
Denver is diverse, with neighborhoods ranging from historic to modern, family-friendly to nightlife-heavy. Align your neighborhood search with your values. For example, Capitol Hill is great for young professionals, while North Park Hill mostly appeals to families.
Start exploring online, reading blogs, and watching videos about different Denver neighborhoods. Think about your daily commute, access to your favorite activities, such as parks or gyms, and the overall vibe. We have a mini-guide later in this article to give you a head start.
Step 6 — Do a Test Run Before Committing
If possible, visit Denver before you hire the movers. But don’t treat it like a vacation. Instead, spend at least a week there and try to live like a local. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your visit:
- Explore neighborhoods you’re considering at different times of the day. How does it feel on a Tuesday morning versus a Saturday night?
- Try the commute from a potential neighborhood to a potential workplace during rush hour.
- Visit a grocery store and check out the prices.
- Talk to people. Strike up conversations with baristas, shop owners, or people at a local park. Ask them what they love about living in Denver and what they find challenging. This firsthand insight is invaluable.
- If you work remotely, maintain your regular work schedule while exploring the city to understand how daily life would actually function.
Step 7 — Think About Your Long-Term Goals
A move isn’t just about the next year; it determines your future. Consider how Denver aligns with your long-term plans.
- Career: Denver’s tech sector continues expanding, but consider whether your specific skills will remain in demand as the market matures.
- Housing: Research historical appreciation rates and future development plans that might affect property values in your target neighborhoods.
- Family: If you plan on starting or growing your family, are the schools, communities, and family-friendly amenities a good fit?
- Climate: Consider long-term environmental factors like water scarcity and wildfire risk in the West.
If your 5- and 10-year outlooks are good and the budget checks out, you can be sure that Denver is a smart and sustainable move for you.
Alternatives to Denver
If you like Denver’s vibe but want to compare options, several other cities offer a similar blend of outdoor access, urban amenities, and a growing job market. Here are a few popular alternatives to consider:
Salt Lake City, UT
Offers similar outdoor recreation access with lower housing costs ($558,243 median home price) and a growing tech scene, although with less cultural diversity and nightlife options.
Portland, OR
This city has comparable housing costs with a median home price of $523,883, but with more rain and higher overall living expenses. The city has a vibrant food and arts culture with strong outdoor access to the coast and mountains.
Colorado Springs, CO
Like Denver, it provides easy access to the mountains but at lower costs with a $449,746 median home price. It has a growing job market and fast access to trails and parks. Commutes are easier, but the nightlife is quieter.
Boise, ID
Offers outdoor recreation and growing tech opportunities at lower costs ($490,587 median home price), although with a smaller cultural scene and fewer career options.
Raleigh, NC
Offers strong job growth and lower housing costs at $437,337 for median home prices. It also has excellent universities and mild weather, but with less mountain access, more greenery, and more humidity.
Phoenix, AZ
Provides year-round sunshine and lower housing costs ($408,114 median home price) with a growing tech presence, but with intense summer heat and limited outdoor recreation.
Nashville, TN
Features a vibrant music culture and a reasonable median home price of $436,951, with no state income tax. You’ll have to handle higher humidity and fewer outdoor recreation options, though.
Minneapolis, MN
If you don’t mind colder winters, Minneapolis offers a fantastic arts scene, beautiful parks, and a much lower cost of living, particularly for housing at $325,076 for the median home price.
Each alternative offers distinct advantages, such as lower costs and different climates, making them worth considering if Denver’s specific combination doesn’t match your priorities.
Where to Live in Denver: Mini Neighborhood Guide
Finding the right neighborhood is key to loving your new city. Whether you’re looking for a bustling urban environment or a quiet avenue, there’s a place for you. Here’s a quick guide to some of Denver’s most popular neighborhoods to get you started:
- Baker: A trendy and eclectic neighborhood just south of downtown. It features a mix of historic Victorian homes and modern apartments. It’s perfect for those who want a vibrant and walkable community.
- Capitol Hill: Dense, historic, and full of character, with beautiful old mansions and affordable apartment buildings. It’s ideal for those who want to be in the middle of the action, with countless bars, restaurants, and museums within walking distance. The proximity to the State Capitol and downtown makes it a convenient spot for young professionals.
- Cherry Creek: This is Denver’s premier upscale neighborhood. It’s home to the high-end Cherry Creek Shopping Center and the boutique-filled streets of Cherry Creek North. With fine dining, art galleries, and beautiful parks, it attracts affluent professionals looking for a sophisticated urban experience.
- City Park: Centered around Denver’s largest and most famous park, this area offers a great balance of green space and urban convenience. It’s popular with families and anyone who wants easy access to cultural institutions like the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and the Denver Zoo.
- Congress Park: A charming and walkable neighborhood featuring beautiful historic homes, a lovely central park, and a cozy collection of local shops and restaurants. It offers a slightly more residential feel than its lively neighbor, Capitol Hill.
- Fort Logan: Located in southwest Denver, this neighborhood offers a more suburban and affordable lifestyle. It’s a great option for families and first-time homebuyers looking for more space, with a mix of single-family homes and a quieter atmosphere.
- Hale: A quieter, more established residential neighborhood with a mix of mid-century houses and newer developments. Its central location and proximity to several major hospitals make it a convenient and popular spot for health care professionals and families.
- LoDo (Lower Downtown): The heart of the city’s business and entertainment districts. Ideal for those who love high-energy urban living, with sports venues and acclaimed restaurants at their doorstep.
- North Park Hill: A diverse and family-friendly neighborhood known for its quiet streets and sturdy brick homes. It offers a more relaxed, residential vibe with good schools while still being close to City Park and providing easy access to I-70 for mountain getaways.
Final Verdict — Should You Move to Denver?
The Mile High City offers a high quality of life for those who value outdoor adventure, a sunny climate, and a dynamic cultural scene. It’s not the cheapest city, but for many, the lifestyle and career growth opportunities justify the costs. If affordability is your top concern, you may want to explore alternatives.
“If possible, visit Denver before you hire the movers. But don’t treat it like a vacation. Instead, spend at least a week there and try to live like a local.”
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your priorities and long-term goals. When you’re ready, you can compare vetted movers on HireAHelper’s marketplace and book instantly for a manageable moving day.
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