Living in Denver Colorado means enjoying life in a dynamic, thriving city that's surrounded by nature and countless ways to get outside.
Nicknamed "The Mile High City", due to its elevation of exactly one mile above sea level, and officially incorporated in 1861, what was once a staple community to the gold rush and a place founded for those in search of riches is now a city rich in history, culture, and exciting things to do.
Denver is known for its stunning architecture, its art and music scene, access to world-class recreation, and its picturesque location set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. In addition, Denver's restaurant scene is worthy of any foodie's radar, and being home to many renowned professional sports teams, it's a great city for those who want to catch a game.
As the Capital of Colorado, Denver will promise a lifestyle where anyone can find their place, regardless of age or interests. Whether it's skiing at some of the best resorts in the U.S. or simply enjoying urban life at its finest, you can truly have it all.
So, if you're moving to Denver Colorado, and wish to learn more, welcome to your ultimate guide in 2024!
Where Is Denver?
Ever wondered where Denver is located? Featuring a beautiful location in the Western United States, the Mile High City is located just east of the Rocky Mountains Front Range and west of the High Plains, tucked into the expanse of the South Platte River Valley.
The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge borders the northern edge of the city, while Cherry Creek State Park and Chatfield State Park are to the city’s south.
There are many small suburbs outside of Denver proper, but major Colorado cities or municipalities you've maybe heard of that are close to Denver include Littleton, Lakewood, Aurora, Arvada, and Thorton.
Other cities near Denver that are a further drive away, including their directions to Denver, are:
What county is Denver in? Being the largest city in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO Metropolitan Area, it's the county seat of Denver County.
Denver Colorado Information
- Denver County: Denver
- Denver total area: 154.726 sq mi
- Denver zip codes: Most zips within the 80012 to 80299 range fall within Denver
- Denver area code: 303/720/983
- Denver elevation: 5,280 feet above sea level, exactly 1 mile, giving it its nickname "The Mile High City"
- Denver Colorado time zone: Mountain Standard Time (UTC-6 and UTC-7)
- Closest airport to Denver: The Denver International Airport is the closest and primary airport of the city, located in the northeast quadrant of the city
Denver Population & Demographics
What is the population of Denver? As of the 2020 Census, its 715,522 residents who happily call the city home. The Denver population is the largest of the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO Metro area, which boasts a total population of 2,963,821.
The growing population of Denver has risen an impressive 19.22% since 2010, so you can tell that moving to Denver is a very popular choice, especially compared to other cities, and has continued this upward trend into 2024.
The Denver population density is 4,674.3 people per square mile, so it's definitely an urban environment spread across 322,964 households, featuring an average of 2.15 people within each.
The median age in Denver is 34.9 years, while 18.7% of the population is under 18 and 12.0% is over 65, offering an ideal blend of young people and a more mature demographic.
Denver demographics are very diverse, making it a cultured city. Let's break the Denver racial demographics down:
65.7% White alone (53.9% White, non-Hispanic), 8.9% Black/African American, 0.8% American Indian/Alaska Native, 3.6% Asian, 29.2% Hispanic/Latino, 0.1% Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, 12.7% two or more races.
The city of Denver demographics are welcoming to all, and it's the 9th largest metro area in the U.S. in terms of its LGBTQ+ population! Just as well, residents are very educated, with 90.5% of residents 25+ having a high school diploma and 54.2% having a bachelor's degree or higher, contributing to the median household income in Denver Colorado of $85,853.
With its popularity and appeal, there's a lot of famous people from Denver you've maybe heard of, including Tim Allen, the actor, Trey Parker, co-creator of 'South Park', David Fincher, producer and writer, and Chauncey Billups, a professional NBA player.
Denver Transportation
While downtown Denver and the many Denver neighborhoods are very walkable, the large city size requires transportation to get around.
Major Denver highways that are a part of the Colorado State Highway System and maintained by the Colorado Department of Transportation servicing the area include:
- I-25: Runs north-south, connecting Denver to Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, and New Mexico.
- I-70: Runs east-west, linking Denver with the Rocky Mountains, Grand Junction, and Kansas.
- I-225: Loops through eastern Denver suburbs, connecting I-25 to I-70.
- I-270: Connects I-70 with I-76 and the northeastern suburbs.
- I-76: Heads northeast, connecting Denver to Sterling and Nebraska.
Although having a car will help you get around, Denver offers plentiful public transportation options for those who do not. The Denver Regional Transportation District is the primary bus and train system for intracity Denver public transport needs, the light rail being a quick way to get around the metro area.
But if you're living in Denver and need to travel to another city, Bustang connects you to intercity locales, while Amtrak, the California Zephyr, and Southwest Chief trains can take you to far away places.
For aviation needs, you'll most likely fly out from the Denver International Airport, so no matter where you're going or why, you'll always have a way to get there, thanks to the excellent Denver Colorado public transportation options.
Cost of Living in Denver
The most recent 2023 Denver cost of living index is 110.3, meaning it's 10.3% more expensive than the national average, but considering all it has to offer, that's not a bad premium to say the least!
The Family Budget Calculator estimates a family of four would need $125,171/year to meet the demands of living in Denver County, so keep that in mind. This makes the MIT living wage, as in what you would need to make hourly with a full time job, to meet the Denver cost of living demands:
- $25.62/hour for 1 adult and no kids
- $34.45/hour for 2 adults but only 1 working
- $17.23/hour for 2 adults both working
Let's break some typical living expenses in Denver Colorado:
- Loaf of bread: $3.66
- A gallon of milk: $2.29
- Hamburger: $4.84
- Utilities in Denver (electricity bill): $153.48/month
- Phone bill: $165.11/month
- Gas: $3.40/gallon
- Doctor’s visit: $123.91
- Dentist visit: $106.91
- Rx drug: $456.55
- Vet visit: $64.34
Data sourced from Payscale.
Something to consider in regard to the cost of living in Denver is taxes. Denver property tax is 0.077486 for every $1 of assessed value of the property. That means for a $631,800 home, you'd pay $2,994.49 in property taxes.
Sales tax in Denver is 8.81%, which is a combination of state, county, and city sales tax rates added together. Denver's local sales tax, before adding the others, is 4.81%.
Income tax is a unique story in Denver, as everyone pays the same rate, which is 4.4%, regardless of your income level.
So, with all this in mind, is living in Denver expensive? Let's compare it to some other big cities to highlight how, overall, Denver is affordable in terms of big-city living and popularity:
- Seattle cost of living vs Denver: Seattle is 34.3% more expensive than Denver
- Cost of living in Dallas vs Denver: Dallas is 8.2% more affordable than Denver
- Cost of living Denver vs Chicago: Chicago is 3.1% more expensive than Denver
A major drive of the cost of living in Denver is the real estate market and housing costs, which are competitive and often pricier than other locales.
Denver Real Estate | Average Rent & Home Prices
Breaking down Denver's housing market makes it clear that it's a desirable place to live. The Denver median home price is $618,000, a higher figure to the national average of $442,451. This equates to a 1.3% increase in Denver home prices since last year, and homes for sale in Denver CO typically sell in just 17 days, solidifying it as a competitive real estate market.
The average home value will, of course, vary based on the type. Single family homes for sale in Denver are the most expensive, with a median sale price of $724,000, while townhomes are $588,288 and condos are $346,000, so there's a range of price points for various budgets.
With all this in mind, there has been fear of a potential Denver real estate market bubble, and the market has recently turned to benefit buyers more than sellers, so if you're moving to Denver, perhaps now is the time to buy a home!
And if not, that's perfectly okay, as you can always opt for rentals.
The average rent in Denver is $1,974/month, an alluring number considering how desirable the area is! That's not much higher than the average national rent of $1,713, so with all the benefits of living in Denver, we'd say that's a rather nice number.
If it's apartments you seek, remember that our team offers comprehensive apartment moving services, so don't make moving up a stairwell any harder than it needs to be!
Denver Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Denver
Denver offers a wide variety of neighborhoods suited to many styles. Whether you're in it for accessible outdoor recreation or historic homes, you can have it all when living in Denver.
Here's a handful of some of the most desirable neighborhoods in Denver to set you off on your search.
Featuring a green oasis in the heart of Denver, Washington Park is a sanctuary for outdoor lovers. With expansive lawns, tranquil lakes, and charming historic homes, it's perfect for those who crave the balance of city life with nature’s calm. Weekend picnics, frisbee, jogs, and dog walks around Wash Park are local traditions.
Downtown Denver pulses with energy, where you can have it all just beyond your doorstep. Bustling with trendy shops, eclectic restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, it's a hub for those who thrive on excitement. The city center is the perfect blend of modern skyscrapers and historic charm.
Cherry Creek is the epitome of sophistication, where luxury meets leisure. Known for its upscale shopping district with the Cherry Creek Shopping Center and fine dining, it’s a haven for fashion enthusiasts and foodies alike. The beautiful Cherry Creek Trail and Cherry Creek Bike Path offer a lovely escape for fresh air, making this one of the top Denver neighborhoods for those who want city living with a mix of outdoor allure.
Five Points, Denver’s cultural crossroads and one of the oldest neighborhoods in Denver, is a historic gem with a soulful vibe. Known as the Harlem of the West, it’s steeped in jazz history and offers a vibrant mix of art, culture, and cuisine. The neighborhood’s eclectic energy draws those who cherish diversity and rich cultural experiences, home to the Roxy Theatre and the famed live music venue, the Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom.
A trendy blend of old and new, The Highlands is where Victorian-era charm meets modern cool. Tree-lined streets and cozy cafes give it a laid-back vibe, while innovative restaurants and rooftop bars make it a foodie’s paradise. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking a neighborhood with character and flair.
RiNo (River North Art District):
RiNo is where creativity flourishes, transforming industrial spaces into art studios, galleries, and breweries. A hub for artists and innovators, its colorful murals and edgy atmosphere attract the trendsetters. RiNo’s vibrant street art and craft breweries make it a hotspot for those who love the cutting edge, one of the best neighborhoods in Denver for young professionals and creatives.
Denver Weather & Climate
The Denver Colorado climate is classified as a semi-arid climate (Köppen climate classification: BSk), meaning sunny and dry with little humidity that leads into colder, snowier winters.
The weather in Denver is all too idealistic for outdoor activities and nature lovers, with 245 days of seemingly constant sunshine perfect for exploring the natural beauty. 16.7 inches of annual rain keeps the landscape lush without an overwhelming presence of thunderstorms, and the average July high of 88.9°F means water activities are commonplace in summer!
With the winter Denver CO weather, being similar to any mountain town, things considerably cool down to average January lows of 17.9°F.
How much snow does the city receive? Denver snow averages 60.2 in. each year, so grab the skis and hit the nearby slopes or you're missing out.
When taking into consideration the average temperatures, amount of sunshine, and more, many people argue that June, September, and August are the best months to visit or explore, but considering Denver's proximity to world-class skiing, there's never a bad time in the Mile High City.
Denver Restaurants
The restaurants in Denver are varied and abundant in flavor. Whether you're trying out Colorado classics like a Colorado Mountain Pie or a Bison steak or keeping it on the simple side, living in Denver means you're guaranteed to find a new favorite place to grab a bite in our amazing city of food.
Buckhorn Exchange is a Denver legend, where every bite tells a story of the Old West. With its wild game specialties—think bison and elk—and a saloon-style ambiance steeped in history, it’s a must-visit for adventurous diners craving an authentic frontier experience.
1000 Osage St, Denver, CO 80204 (303-534-9505)
Pantaleone’s, a Denver icon revived by the show Kitchen Nightmares in 2013, serves up a bit of nostalgia with every slice. Known for its legendary "Denver’s Best Pizza," this family-owned gem blends old-school charm with bold, authentic flavors. Their towering, crispy-crust pies, crafted with love since 1985, offer a delicious taste of tradition that stands the test of time.
2120 S Holly St, Denver, CO 80222 (303-757-3456)
Corinne is where modern sophistication meets comfort in the heart of Denver. This upscale eatery offers a fresh take on American classics, with dishes that are both elevated and approachable. Whether you're savoring their perfectly seared steaks or indulging in a handcrafted cocktail, Corinne's warm, chic ambiance makes it the go-to spot for a refined yet relaxed dining experience. It's one the best restaurants in Denver for those who appreciate a touch of elegance with every bite.
1455 California St, Denver, CO 80202 (720-996-1555)
Things to Do in Denver
Denver is packed with things to do. Whether you're an art aficionado, a shopaholic, or in search of excellent outdoor recreation, discover the many things to do in Denver Colorado, with these suggestions!
Top Denver Attractions
Downtown Aquarium
You'll enjoy marine life, interactive exhibits, and underwater dining at Downtown Aquarium, a unique blend of entertainment and education.
Denver Zoo
With diverse wildlife, interactive exhibits, and conservation efforts at Denver Zoo, this is a must-visit for animal lovers of all ages.
Catch a Game at Coors Field
Experience Rockies baseball at Coors Field, where thrilling games, breathtaking mountain views, and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable moments, one of the best things to do in Denver for sports lovers and baseball fans.
Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park
Looking for things to do in Denver with kids? Thrills meet fun at Elitch Gardens, Denver's historic amusement park, blending heart-pounding rides with water park splashes and skyline views.
Oakwell Beer Spa
Unwind at Oakwell Beer Spa, where craft brews meet luxurious spa treatments, creating a refreshing, one-of-a-kind relaxation experience.
Denver Botanical Gardens
Stroll through Denver Botanic Gardens, where vibrant landscapes, seasonal blooms, and serene spaces offer a peaceful urban escape."
United States Mint Tour
Discover the coin-making process and American history on a fascinating United States Mint Tour in Denver.
Denver Entertainment & Arts
Red Rocks Amphitheater
Although technically outside of Denver, you’ll enjoy legendary performances and stunning views at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, an iconic natural venue carved into towering red sandstone.
Denver Performing Arts Complex
Immerse yourself in world-class performances at Denver Performing Arts Complex, a cultural hub where art, architecture, and creativity converge.
Denver Church of Cannabis
Elevate your spirit at the International Church of Cannabis, where vibrant murals and guided meditations blend with a unique cultural experience.
Meow Wolf Denver
Explore Meow Wolf Denver’s Convergence Station, a four-story immersive art exhibition featuring surreal landscapes, interactive storytelling, and over 70 unique installations.
Clyfford Still Museum
Discover abstract expressionism at the Clyfford Still Museum, home to 95% of Still’s works, showcasing his bold, pioneering art in an architecturally stunning space.
Denver Museums
Denver Art Museum
Delve into global masterpieces at Denver Art Museum, boasting 70,000+ works, innovative exhibits, and the architectural marvel of the Hamilton Building.
Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Uncover the wonders of the natural world at Denver Museum of Nature & Science, featuring engaging exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater.
Molly Brown House Museum
Step into the life of the unsinkable Molly Brown at her historic Denver home, filled with rich stories and period treasures.
Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum
Fuel your passion for aviation and space at Wings Over the Rockies, where vintage aircraft and immersive exhibits inspire future pilots and explorers.
Denver Parks & Outdoors
City Park
Relax and play at City Park, Denver’s urban oasis, offering scenic lakes, lush gardens, and attractions like the Denver Zoo and Museum of Nature & Science.
Washington Park
Stroll through Washington Park’s two scenic lakes, vibrant flower gardens, and enjoy its expansive lawns, historic boathouse, and popular running trails.
Golf Courses
Tee off at Denver’s top golf courses like City Park Golf Course, Willis Case, and Cherry Hills, offering stunning views and challenging play.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Just outside Denver, about a 1.5-hour drive, Rocky Mountain National Park offers breathtaking mountain scenery, diverse wildlife, and over 350 miles of hiking trails.
Shopping in Denver
Larimer Square
Shop, dine, and explore history at Larimer Square, Denver’s oldest and most vibrant block, filled with unique boutiques, restaurants, and lively events.
16th Street Mall
Stroll Denver’s 16th Street Mall, a bustling mile-long promenade lined with shops, eateries, and entertainment, all in the heart of downtown.
Denver Pavilions
Shop, dine, and catch a movie at Denver Pavilions, a lively open-air complex on the 16th Street Mall with over 40 stores and attractions.
Map of Denver Things to Do
As you can see, there's lots to keep you busy when living in Denver! Use this map to visit all the destinations and fun things to do in Denver.
The Denver Sports Scene
Denver is a sports enthusiast’s paradise, offering an entertaining mix of professional and college-level teams. The city proudly hosts major league teams across all sports: the Denver Broncos dominate the NFL scene at Empower Field, while the Colorado Rockies bring baseball excitement to Coors Field.
Basketball fans can cheer on the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena, which also houses the Colorado Avalanche, Denver’s NHL team. Soccer enthusiasts cheer on the Colorado Rapids, playing at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.
On the collegiate level, the University of Denver Pioneers excel in sports like hockey and lacrosse, with strong local support. The city’s proximity to Boulder and Fort Collins also means easy access to the University of Colorado Buffaloes and Colorado State Rams, adding a touch of college sports rivalries.
From thrilling pro games to competitive college matchups, Denver’s sports culture is diverse, passionate, and integral to the city’s identity.
Denver Crime Rate
Is Denver a safe city? Let's dig into the crime rate statistics to learn more.
According to the FBI, the total crime rate in Denver Colorado is 7,498/100k residents, which is 222.6% higher than the national average, so there are surely crime concerns. Violent crime is also prevalent, at 1,070/100k residents and 189.4% higher than the national average, and the murder rate is 104.8% higher.
While these crime rates are indeed high, when compared to big cities, this isn't all too unusual. To give you an idea, let's compare the total crime rate in Colorado to that of a few other, similar city locations:
- San Francisco crime rate - 198.7% higher than the national average and 23.9% less than Denver's crime rate
- Miami Beach crime rate - 314.4% higher than the national average and 91.8% higher than the Denver crime rate
- St. Louis crime rate - 275.4% higher than the national average and 52.8% higher than the Denver crime rate
- Birmingham Crime rate - 151.9% higher than the national average and 70.7% less than Denver's crime rate
As you can see, while there's certainly plenty of crime, other cities present similar conditions, and there are signs of the crime rate in Denver coming down. You'll be protected by the Denver Police Department and the 687 officers who are at constant work to keep the community one that is safe and secure.
Economy & Jobs in Denver
The economy in Denver is one of the largests in Colorado, with a strong job market. Key industries include Aerospace and Defense, technology, healthcare, and tourism.
Additionally, since voting to legalize recreational marijuana back in 2012, Denver has since seen quite the increase in economic prosperity and additional jobs in this field, from retail to cultivation. Although, with other states following suit, the tourism draw of this industry has slightly slowed.
Major employers in Denver include Lockheed Martin in aerospace, HealthONE and Centura Health in healthcare, and Wells Fargo in finance. Denver Public Schools is also a significant employer, shaping the community's future while providing excellent jobs in education.
The average salary in Denver is $33/hour, while the minimum wage will increase to $18.81 as of January 2025.
Keep up with Indeed Jobs Denver to browse opportunities and apply, or check out the City of Denver Jobs for awesome government positions with great benefits!
Healthcare
Healthcare options in Denver and the surrounding areas are plentiful, with world-class facilities catering to diverse health needs.
The Children's Hospital in Aurora is renowned for pediatric care, offering specialized treatments for young patients. Saint Joseph Hospital, part of the SCL Health system, provides exceptional care in various specialties, while Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers lead in oncology treatments.
Additionally, Denver Health is a vital public hospital known for trauma care and comprehensive services, although its facing some financial concerns, and UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital excels in research-driven medical care.
With numerous urgent care centers and specialized clinics, residents have access to top-notch healthcare across the metro area.
Denver Schools
Denver Public Schools (DPS) is not only one of the top districts in Colorado but also ranks highly nationwide. Serving over 89,000 students, DPS offers a wide array of educational experiences through its 92 preschools, 118 elementary schools, 66 middle schools, and 53 high schools.
The district emphasizes diverse learning opportunities, including dual-language programs, arts education, and STEM initiatives.
Lincoln High School recently earned a national student council award, showcasing the district’s commitment to forming the best Denver schools. DPS also partners with local colleges and universities, providing pathways for students to pursue higher education and vocational training.
Colleges in the area include the University of Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver, Community College of Denver, CU Denver, and the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora.
The Denver Public Library has multiple locations scattered across the city, so that learning never stops.
Denver Utilities & DMV Change of Address
If you have plans on living in Denver CO, you're going to need to set up utilities and change your address.
For utilities in Denver, you'll most likely go through the largest provider in the city, which is Xcel Energy, for electricity and gas. Set up your account online or by calling 866-379-3072, and manage everything through the Denver Utilities portal.
Denver Water handles residential water needs, which you can set up by calling 303-893-2444, while the Denver Solid Waste Management Division takes care of trash and recycling.
To change your address with the DMV, which must be completed within 30 days of moving to Denver, simply print and fill out a Change of Address form (DR2285) and mail it or drop it off at any Denver DMV branch. You can change your address online, but you will not receive a new license until you renew your license after the address change has been completed.
If you're coming from out of state, you'll have to schedule an appointment and ensure you have the correct documents to prove you're a new resident.
Speaking of which, whether you’re moving to Denver or away from our bustling city, don’t make the transition one that’s synonymous with stress, and make it one that you remember because of the smiles, instead!
Call our Denver movers at 303-587-6200 for a free quote regarding your move, and allow us the pleasure of settling you in with comfort and simplicity.
