Cost of Living in Denver, CO

Key Statistics

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Living in Denver, CO — 2026 Cost of Living Guide

Denver is above the national average in terms of cost, with an overall cost of living index of 125. This means living in Denver is approximately 25% more expensive than the national average.

Housing Costs in Denver

Housing costs are notably higher than the national average, which is a significant factor in the overall cost of living. The housing index for Denver is 148, which means housing costs are 48% above the national average. This includes both rental prices and home purchase costs in the metropolitan area.

Income and Employment

The median household income in Denver is $72,661, with a population of approximately 715,522. The median household income is moderate, providing a reasonable standard of living relative to local costs.

Denver boasts a thriving job market with strong opportunities across multiple industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare.

Daily Living Expenses

Beyond housing, daily expenses in Denver are near the national average. Groceries and dining carry an index of 105, while transportation costs sit at 105. Healthcare expenses index at 105, and utilities come in at 92.

Taxes

Taxes in Denver are roughly average, with a tax index of 98.

Quality of Life

Denver enjoys generally pleasant weather, with seasonal variations that most residents find manageable.

Safety in Denver is comparable to other cities of similar size, with some neighborhoods being safer than others.

Is Denver a Good Place to Live?

Denver may be expensive, but many residents find the higher costs justified by the career opportunities, cultural amenities, and lifestyle the city offers. With a thriving job market and good weather, Denver continues to attract new residents despite the premium cost of living.

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