Cost of Living in Denver vs Other Major Cities

Denver’s cost of living runs about 15-20% above the national average, driven by housing, but remains more affordable than coastal giants like San Francisco or New York while offering superior quality of life compared to Austin or Seattle. With 15+ years in Denver real estate and thousands of transactions, I’ve helped relocators compare costs from Littleton real estate to urban condos, weighing the Colorado housing market against major metros.

Housing: Denver’s Biggest Driver

Housing eats 40-50% of budgets here—median home $650K, rents $2,000 for 2-beds—versus $1.2M and $3,500 in San Francisco, or $900K/$2,500 in Seattle. Austin matches Denver prices but lacks mountain access; Phoenix undercuts at $450K medians with hotter summers. Highlands Ranch real estate adds HOA premiums ($300/month) but stable values.

Utilities run $200/month (higher AC bills), groceries 10% above average, but gas aligns nationally at $3.50/gallon.

Groceries, Transportation, and Taxes

Groceries cost 5-10% more than Dallas or Atlanta—$450/month for a family of four—due to import reliance. Transportation favors Denver: RTD light rail keeps commutes affordable ($100/month pass), cheaper than LA’s $150+ or NYC’s $130. Sales tax hits 8.8% (high), property taxes 0.6% (low vs Texas 1.8%).

Healthcare mirrors national at $500/month premiums, better access than rural peers.

Comparison Table

Category	Denver	San Francisco	Austin	Seattle	Phoenix
Median Home	$650K	$1.3M	$550K	$850K	$450K
2-BR Rent	$2,000	$3,500	$1,900	$2,600	$1,700
Groceries (family)	$450	$550	$420	$480	$410
Utilities	$200	$250	$180	$220	$190
Overall Index (US=100)	118	170	115	140	105

Denver-Specific Insights and Advice

Denver wins for value: top schools in Highlands Ranch real estate, trails everywhere, no state income tax on Social Security. Relocators save vs coasts but budget housing first—aim 28% DTI max.

Practical tips:

Buy in Littleton for suburban affordability, 10% below city core.
Use employer relocation aid covering 5-10% costs.
Factor wildfires/insurance hikes ($2K/year).
Track cycles—2025 balance favors buyers.

Many clients relocating here build lasting relationships, trading costs for lifestyle.

If you’d like honest guidance, market insight, or a no-pressure conversation about Denver costs vs your city, reach out—I’m here. Visit www.MileHighHomeGroup.net to search properties, explore Denver, learn more about me and connect.

Mile High Home Group – Welcome to Denver