How Much Does it Cost to Live in Denver, CO?

Moving to Denver? As one of the largest cities in Colorado and a popular place to move to, living in Denver comes with some added expenses, but you can still enjoy an affordable lifestyle here. Whether you're moving from across the country or just a short distance—it's important to know how much you'll be spending on everyday essentials and ask movers questions before hiring. Here's our guide for how much it costs to live in Denver in 2025!

Cost of living data provided by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER).

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Denver?

Although the overall living cost in Denver, CO is 9.1% higher than the national average, you can expect to see savings in some areas like monthly utilities and transportation. Residents of the Mile High City often find the higher average cost of living in Denver worth it because it's one of the best cities for outdoor recreation and one of the best places to live near mountains.

Cost of Housing in Denver

The average home price in Denver is about 27.1% higher than the national average, while the average apartment rent in Denver is 20.8% higher. However, Denver has some safe and affordable neighborhoods for those looking to live in the city on a budget. Denver housing prices can also vary depending on how large of a home you need, and whether you rent or buy in Denver.

Cost of Utilities in Denver (Monthly)

Paying for utilities in Denver may be an area where you can cut costs. On average, energy bills are 18.0% less than the national average, and phone bills are relatively in line with national averages. See detailed utility costs in Denver below!

Cost of Groceries in Denver

Some Denver living expenses, like groceries, are almost on par with the average national prices. For a single adult, monthly grocery expenses tend to range from $350 to $700, depending on several factors like your lifestyle and where you shop. Some essential items like coffee and bread tend to be more expensive, while eggs and milk are often cheaper. Below are the average prices of some common grocery items in Denver.

Cost of Healthcare in Denver

Healthcare in Denver is 12.4% higher than the national average, but the city is known for offering quality medical services at institutions like Denver Health and the Children's Hospital of Colorado. See how much doctor visits, prescription medication, and other healthcare items cost in Denver below!

Cost of Transportation in Denver

Transportation in Denver is an area where you may see lower costs. While a tire balance is slightly more expensive, a gallon of gasoline in Denver is often cheaper than the national average! While most commuters in Denver do have a car, there are also plenty of public transportation options to get around the city, which may help you cut costs.

Cost of Goods & Services in Denver

The prices of goods and services in Denver remain pretty close to the national average prices, which can be expected in a large city. Your overall costs will depend on your lifestyle and how you choose to spend your money. Take a look at the cost of common goods and services in Denver below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it expensive to live in Denver?

Yes, Denver is generally considered a more expensive place to live, with the overall cost of living being 9.1% higher than the national average. The largest contributor to living costs is housing, which are significantly higher than U.S. and state averages. Despite the higher price tag, many people still choose to settle down in Denver for its strong job market and outdoor recreation.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Denver?

For a one-person household, your recommended annual income should be around $56,175 before taxes are applied and $47,034 after taxes are applied. A comfortable salary in Denver can depend on multiple factors, including how many people are in your family or in your household, the size of your home, your lifestyle, and more.

What are the average monthly expenses in Denver?

For a single adult, average monthly expenses can range from $1,200 to $1,500, excluding rent. Families with kids will likely see higher expenses of around $4,500. Depending on your lifestyle, home size, and how you choose to spend your money, these expenses could be cheaper or more expensive.

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Planning on moving to Denver? Extra Space Storage has moving resources to help throughout your transition. And if you need self storage during the moving process, we have plenty of storage facilities located throughout the Denver metro. Find a storage unit near you!