A lot of people from Boston are setting their sights on Denver, and the reasons for the big change are varied. Some move for work or school, others want a little more sun and space than New England can offer.
Denver’s mix of job growth, outdoor living, and friendlier housing prices makes it an easy city to picture yourself in. It is a big shift, though. You are trading the ocean for the Rockies, and four true seasons for blue skies most of the year. This guide walks through what changes most when you move from Boston to Denver, and how much the move itself usually costs.
Boston vs. Denver: Key Differences to Know Before You Move
If you’re thinking about leaving Boston for Denver, it helps to know what daily life really looks like once you unpack. For a deeper look at local neighborhoods, weather, and what makes Denver unique, check out our upcoming guide, Should You Move to Denver? This section gives you a head start by comparing the biggest differences in cost, lifestyle, and who tends to feel right at home after making the move.
Boston vs. Denver Cost of Living
Living in Denver is generally easier on the wallet than living in Boston, especially when it comes to housing. Boston’s cost of living sits about 46% higher than the national average, while Denver’s is only 9% higher. That gap shows up fast when you compare home prices, rent, and utilities.
According to Zillow, the average home value in Boston is $785,239, compared to $535,897 in Denver. Renters will notice an even bigger difference: the average apartment in Boston costs $3,459 per month, while in Denver it’s around $1,605.
Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs also tend to be lower in Denver. Utilities run 53% higher than the national average in Boston, but are about 11% lower in Denver. You’ll also pay slightly less for groceries and gas in Colorado, and your money goes further when it comes to space.
Here’s a simple snapshot of how the two cities compare:
While Boston offers strong wages, much of that income goes toward rent, utilities, and daily expenses. In Denver, housing and everyday costs stretch farther, leaving room for travel, hobbies, or savings.
Boston vs. Denver Lifestyle and Culture
The differences between Boston and Denver go far beyond housing costs. Boston’s rhythm feels historic, compact, and coastal, while Denver’s energy is wide open, sunny, and tied to the outdoors.
Weather and environment
Boston’s humid summers and icy winters are replaced by Denver’s dry climate and endless sunshine. Locals joke that if you don’t like the weather, wait ten minutes — it could shift from snow to t-shirt weather in a single afternoon. The lack of humidity means milder-feeling winters, but it also means you’ll need a good moisturizer and a humidifier once you arrive.
Outdoor life
In Denver, hiking, skiing, and biking aren’t weekend hobbies — they’re part of the local lifestyle. You can be on a trail within minutes of downtown, and the Rocky Mountains are a constant backdrop. The tradeoff is that popular mountain routes, especially I-70, can back up for hours on winter weekends.
Culture and community
Boston has a deep history, world-class museums, and a sharp academic culture built around its universities. Denver feels more casual and family-friendly, with festivals, parks, and community events replacing Boston’s cobblestone charm. Parents in Reddit threads often mention neighborhoods like Central Park, Park Hill, and Arvada as great spots for kids and local events.
Food and dining
Boston’s seafood and Italian restaurants are tough to match, and you won’t find a roast beef sandwich quite like the North Shore’s. Denver’s food scene leans casual, with standout breweries, farmers markets, and a love for green chili that every newcomer learns fast.
Jobs and economy
Both cities have strong economies but different strengths. Boston leads in education, healthcare, and finance, while Denver’s growth is fueled by tech, aerospace, and clean energy. Salaries may be lower in Denver, but so are most living expenses.
Getting around
Boston’s MBTA makes car-free living possible, though traffic and parking are legendary headaches. Denver’s RTD network covers the metro area but is less comprehensive, so most people still drive. The good news is that commuting in Denver is generally less stressful, and parking is easier to find.
Here’s how those differences often shake out for people making the move:
Types of People Who Will Like Moving from Boston to Denver
People who end up happy in Denver usually come for the weather and stay for the breathing room. It draws folks who like being outside and want a little less pressure in their week. If that sounds like you, you’ll probably fit right in.
- Remote workers: With mountains on the horizon and plenty of nearby trails, Denver makes remote life feel balanced. You can wrap up a meeting and be outdoors in minutes, which helps keep the workday from feeling too heavy.
- Health and tech professionals: Denver’s growing healthcare and tech industries offer steady opportunities without the high-pressure atmosphere of larger East Coast cities. It’s a solid landing spot if you want meaningful work and room to breathe.
- Active lifestyles: Hiking, skiing, and biking are part of daily life here. Families and singles alike find it easy to stay active, meet people, and make weekends feel like mini vacations.
- Sun lovers: With more than 300 sunny days a year, Denver’s light feels like a reward, especially if you’re coming from long Boston winters.
If you can’t imagine life away from the ocean or Fenway, you might miss home. But if you want clear skies, easier living, and more time outside, Denver tends to feel like a good trade.
How Much Does It Cost to Move from Boston to Denver?
Moving from Boston to Denver is no small trip. At nearly 2,000 miles, it counts as a true long-distance move. What you’ll pay depends on the size of your home, how much you’re bringing, and how much of the work you want to handle yourself. Below is a look at what people typically spend, based on HireAHelper’s 2025 data.
If you’re renting your own truck or container and just need movers for loading and unloading, plan for around $350 to $700 per side. That covers a two-person crew for a few hours, which is usually enough for an average home.
“Winter storms can slow you down anywhere from the Berkshires to eastern Colorado. Denver drivers aren’t used to heavy snow, and I-70 through the mountains can close quickly. Spring and early fall are the easiest times to make this trip.”
Full-service moves cost more since the company handles everything from packing to transport and unloading. Most people making this route spend between $4,000 and $9,000 total, depending on the time of year and the size of their home.
Many movers land somewhere in between. They hire help in Boston to load, drive the truck or container themselves, and then book another crew in Denver to unload. It’s one of the easiest ways to save money while keeping your move manageable.
Factors That Impact the Price of Your Move from Boston to Denver
The cost of moving from Boston to Denver depends on more than just mileage. Timing, home size, and how much help you want all play a big part in the final price. Here’s what tends to move the needle most.
Size of your home
The larger your home, the longer it takes to pack, load, and unload. A one-bedroom apartment might only need a few hours of help, while a three- or four-bedroom house can take an entire day. Labor-only moves for smaller homes usually fall between $350 and $700, while full-service moves that include packing, driving, and unloading typically range from $4,000 to $9,000.
Type of service
Many people making this move choose a mix of DIY and professional help. A common setup is hiring movers in Boston to load, driving a truck or arranging for a portable container to Colorado, then hiring another crew in Denver to unload. This hybrid approach usually costs $700 to $1,500 total, depending on the size of your home. It’s an easy way to save without doing all the lifting yourself.
Time of year
Summer is the busiest and most expensive time to move to Denver. Prices climb fast once warm weather and peak moving season hit. Spring and fall tend to offer lower rates and lighter traffic on I-70, while winter moves can be cheaper if you plan around snow and cold.
Day of the week
Weekend moves in both Boston and Denver fill quickly and often cost more. If you can schedule a midweek date, you’ll have better luck getting your preferred crew and a lower rate.
Access and parking
Boston’s narrow streets and permit requirements can slow down loading day, so it helps to reserve curb space early. In Denver, you’ll want to confirm truck access ahead of time, especially since older areas like Capitol Hill and Baker can have tight alleys or shared lots, and suburbs like Littleton or Arvada may have HOA parking limits. A little planning here can save extra fees and delays on move-in day.
Being flexible with your schedule and preparing for local quirks on both ends will go a long way toward keeping costs manageable and your Boston-to-Denver move running smoothly.
Getting the Best Price on Your Boston-Denver Move
The best way to save money on a long-distance move is to plan early and get multiple quotes before you book. Aim for at least three so you can see what’s standard for your home size and timing. When you request a quote, list things like stairs, elevators, parking limits, or heavy furniture. The more accurate your details, the more accurate your price will be.
“Living in Denver is generally easier on the wallet than living in Boston, especially when it comes to housing. Boston’s cost of living sits about 46% higher than the national average, while Denver’s is only 9% higher.”
If your schedule allows, move midweek or outside of peak summer months to avoid higher rates. Flexibility makes a big difference on this route. And don’t forget about HireAHelper’s Best Price Guarantee. If you find the same service for less on our platform, we’ll match it so you can move with confidence knowing you’re getting a fair deal from trusted, vetted movers.
Best Local Moving Companies for Boston–Denver Moves
If you plan to drive your own truck or use a moving container, hiring local movers at both ends can make the trip easier and more affordable. You’ll get expert help where you need it most without paying full-service prices for the entire route.
In Boston, Fortex Moving is one of the top-rated options on HireAHelper, with a perfect 5.0 rating and more than 180 verified reviews. A two-person crew for two hours runs about $290, which is enough time to load a small apartment. Full House Family Moving is another customer favorite, with over 1,300 reviews and a 4.9 rating for reliability and careful handling. They charge around $336 for the same setup.
When you reach Denver, you can expect to find similar prices for local unloading help. Most crews charge between $250 and $400 for two movers for two hours, which is usually enough time to get your belongings safely off the truck and into your new home.
Altogether, hiring labor on both ends generally costs $500–$700 in total, depending on your home size and timing. Booking through HireAHelper means every crew is vetted, insured, and backed by a service guarantee, so your move from Boston to Denver stays simple and stress-free from start to finish.
Tips for a Smooth Move Between Boston and Denver
A long-distance move like this is easier when you plan for what’s unique about both cities. Here are some local-tested tips from people who’ve made the trip.
- Break up the drive. It’s nearly 2,000 miles from Boston to Denver, and most people take two or three days. Popular overnight stops are Buffalo, Chicago, or Omaha, where you’ll find plenty of hotels with truck parking.
- Watch the weather. Winter storms can slow you down anywhere from the Berkshires to eastern Colorado. Denver drivers aren’t used to heavy snow, and I-70 through the mountains can close quickly. Spring and early fall are the easiest times to make this trip.
- Plan parking early in Boston. You’ll need a moving truck permit if you live in the city. Streets in Back Bay, South End, or Cambridge fill up fast, and parking without a permit can lead to towing or a ticket.
- Check access before unloading in Denver. Older neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Baker have narrow alleys, while Central Park and Park Hill have wider streets and more family-friendly setups. Some suburbs, like Littleton or Arvada, have HOA rules about parking large trucks overnight.
- Give yourself time to adjust. The altitude and dry air can hit you harder than expected. Drink plenty of water, use lotion, and plan a lighter first day before unpacking heavy boxes.
- Set expectations for skiing. You’ll have world-class mountains nearby, but weekend traffic on I-70 can be long. Locals usually leave before dawn or ski midweek to skip the crowds.
- Mind the food and climate changes. Groceries and restaurants feel different out west. Fresh seafood and Italian spots are harder to find, and the air is much drier than Boston’s humidity. Pack a few comfort foods for the first week while you get settled.
A little planning around these local details makes the Boston-to-Denver move smoother, safer, and easier on both you and your movers.
The Boston to Denver Moving Checklist
Every cross-country move goes smoother with a solid plan, and this route has its own quirks to prepare for. The distance, the weather, and even local rules in both cities can affect how things go on moving day. Think of this as your Boston-to-Denver roadmap: what to do, when to do it, and a few tips from people who’ve made this trip before.
If you haven’t already, check out HireAHelper’s complete moving checklist for a full planning timeline. You’ll also want to bookmark our guides on how to change your address everywhere before you move and packing tips to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
4–6 Weeks Before Your Move
This is the time to get organized and start checking off the bigger tasks that take the most coordination. Getting a head start can save you time and stress later.
- Notify your Boston utility providers, including Eversource, National Grid, and Boston Water and Sewer, of your move-out date. Set your shutoff for a day or two after you plan to leave.
- Schedule your new Denver utilities with Xcel Energy and Denver Water. If you’re moving to a suburb like Littleton or Arvada, look up the local utility department for setup.
- Get at least three quotes from moving companies that handle long-distance routes. Booking early often leads to better pricing and more flexible dates.
- Apply for a Boston moving truck permit through City Hall. In areas like Back Bay or South End, parking is tight, and towing is common without one.
- Begin decluttering. The less you have to move, the less time and money you’ll spend, so this is an important step. Donation centers such as Goodwill Boston, the Salvation Army, and Boomerangs will often pick up large items.
- Keep an eye on the forecast for snow through the Berkshires and Midwest if you’re moving in the winter. Weather can affect travel plans, so build in extra time.
- Start collecting boxes and moving supplies early. Local grocery stores and hardware shops are good places to find them for free.
2–3 Weeks Before Your Move
Now is the time to finalize logistics and double-check that everything is ready for moving day. The smoother your plan, the easier the trip will feel once you’re on the road.
- Plan your route. Most people take I-90 west through New York, then I-80 and I-76 into Colorado. Popular overnight stops include Cleveland, Des Moines, and Omaha.
- Confirm all mover details, including arrival times and truck access at both pickup and drop-off locations.
- Forward your mail through USPS and update your address with your bank, insurance, and any subscriptions.
- Take photos of valuable or fragile items before packing. This helps if you need to file a claim later.
- Ask about elevator reservations or parking access at your new place. Older buildings in Capitol Hill and Uptown may have truck size restrictions.
- Book pet-friendly hotels ahead of time if you’re driving. Lincoln and Kearney, Nebraska, both have good overnight options for travelers with pets.
- Pack important papers and medications in a separate bag that stays with you for the trip.
1 Week Before Your Move
This week is about final touches and making sure all the details are covered. A little preparation now makes your loading day much easier.
- Reconfirm all appointments with your movers and check that your parking permits are valid.
- Review weather forecasts along your route. Conditions across Iowa and Colorado can shift quickly, so make sure you have alternate routes in place.
- Defrost your refrigerator and freezer at least 24 hours before loading.
- Return any rented cable boxes, routers, or modems to avoid late fees.
- Pack an essentials box with toiletries, chargers, snacks, and a few changes of clothes. Include lotion and lip balm to help adjust to Denver’s dry air.
- Label every box clearly and keep heavier ones on the bottom.
- Leave behind a short note or contact sheet for new residents with forwarding details or building information.
Moving Day
Treat your Boston-to-Denver move like a road trip. You’ll enjoy it more if you pace yourself and give each stage the time it needs.
- Start early to avoid Boston’s rush-hour traffic, especially if you’re near downtown or Cambridge.
- Keep toll money or your E-ZPass handy for New York and Pennsylvania.
- Check fuel levels often, especially across the Midwest, where exits can be far apart.
- Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a small cooler for the drive. It’s a long stretch between major towns past Des Moines.
- Secure furniture and boxes tightly in your truck or container. Strong winds across Nebraska and eastern Colorado can shift loads quickly.
- Plan overnight stops ahead of time. Cleveland, Lincoln, and Kearney are popular with truck-friendly hotels right off the highway.
- Drive carefully through older areas like Capitol Hill or Baker once you reach Denver. The streets in those areas can be narrow and parking is limited.
First Week in Denver
The hardest part is behind you. Now it’s about settling in, getting used to the altitude, and finding your new rhythm.
- Drink lots of water and take breaks for your first few days. The altitude can make you feel tired or short of breath at first.
- Register your car with the Colorado DMV and schedule your emissions test early since appointments fill fast.
- Update your driver’s license and voter registration at a Denver or county office.
- Set up trash and recycling service through Denver Solid Waste Management or your suburb’s provider.
- Close out your Boston accounts and request deposits back from Eversource, National Grid, or your internet provider.
- Try your new commute during the same hours you’ll normally drive. Traffic on I-25 and I-70 gets heavy early in the morning.
- Stock up on basics like bottled water, lotion, and a humidifier. Denver’s air is dry, and most newcomers feel the difference right away.
- Explore your new area. Walk around Sloan’s Lake, check out the South Pearl Street market, or take a day trip to Boulder.
- Buy your ski pass early if you plan to hit the slopes. Ikon and Epic passes sell out fast, and weekday trips help you avoid I-70 traffic.
- Join a local Facebook or Nextdoor group. It’s the easiest way to find neighborhood recommendations for contractors, restaurants, and community events.
Other Helpful Articles
Should You Move to Denver?
Average Prices for Movers in Denver
Moving Permits & Parking in Denver