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Are you considering living in Denver, Colorado? The area continues to attract newcomers with its booming job market, postcard-worthy views, and outdoor lifestyle. Before you start relocating to Denver, explore the advantages and the challenges of living in the Queen City of the Plains.
High Altitude: 5,820 Feet Above Everything
Denver, Colorado, has been nicknamed the "Mile-High City." The city's official elevation is exactly one mile (5,280 feet) above sea level.
- Refreshing Air (Pro): The air in Denver is thinner and drier due to its elevation, making it often feel crisp and refreshing. This is great for athletes. Exercising at this altitude can improve endurance once you return to sea level.
- Altitude Adjustment (Con): Newcomers often have to go through an adjustment period. You may experience mild altitude sickness, including headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Fortunately, this only lasts for the first few days, so once you've been living in Denver, Colorado, for a bit, you'll be alright. To combat altitude sickness, it's recommended to stay hydrated (water will be your best friend), avoid excess alcohol and caffeine, and limit strenuous outdoor activity. Once you're body has adjusted, you can return to your regular23 daily activities.
If you have a heart or lung condition, consult your physician before relocating to Denver. High-altitude areas can make breathing more difficult and exacerbate pre-existing health issues in individuals.
Climate & Weather: 300 Days of Sunshine
- Sunny Days (Pro): Denver averages 300 sunny days per year. Even the winter months are bright! Because of the strong sun, snow often melts quickly. Although Denver experiences 55-65 inches of snow annually, much of which falls in March and April, it is not a prolonged phenomenon.
- Fluctuating Weather (Con): The area experiences unpredictable and rapidly changing weather, so always be prepared for sudden fluctuations when living in Denver, Colorado. The semi-arid high desert weather can be a comfortable 60°F in the afternoon but drop to very chilly 30°F during the night.
Things to Do In Denver & Nearby
One of the biggest perks of living in Denver, Colorado, is the abundance of things to do! Whether it's in the greater Denver area or just a few hours away, there's never a shortage of adventure. To us, these are all pros of Denver living.
- Outdoor Adventures: Like hiking, kayaking, and skiing? You can do all of it within two hours of Denver. Take a day-trip to Rocky Mountain National Park or ski at 11 different resorts (all within a two-hour drive).
- Trails & Parks: Pedal or stroll the 71-mile High Line Canal Trail as it threads historic neighborhoods and pocket prairies, or take a stroll around Washington Park. Even downtown, Confluence Park serves up riverside picnic spots and kayak chutes just steps from LoDo’s cafés.
- Culture & Museums: In the heart of Denver, you can explore the Denver Museum of Nature and Science with its "can't miss" planetarium. For art lovers, peruse the halls at the Denver Art Museum,
- Live Music & Sports: You can catch a concert at the world-famous Red Rocks. If you're a sports fan, there are teams galore to cheer on. Choose from the Broncos, Nuggets, Rockies, Avalanche, or Rapids.
- Food & Drink: Denver boasts a thriving craft beer scene with over 150 breweries. Foodies will appreciate the numerous James Beard-recognized restaurants, as well as the fresh produce and perishables available at the year-round farmers' markets.
Job Growth
Looking for a new career? Relocating to Denver may be an excellent option for you. The area boasts a robust and diverse job market, with employment growth reaching 3.2% in Q424. Additionally, Colorado's unemployment rate has consistently been below the national average. This is a strong indicator of a healthy job market.
The tech, renewable energy, aerospace, and healthcare sectors in Denver, Colorado, are experiencing significant growth. More than 17 million people visit the Denver area each year, resulting in a booming hospitality sector.
Cost of Living
While a thriving economy is definitely a pro, the cost of living in Denver, Colorado, is a slight con. While still more affordable than coastal metros, the median home price in Denver is well above the national average.
A few pros, though.
- The median household income in Denver, Colorado, exceeds the national average. US News reports the Median Household Income in the U.S. is $75,149. The Median Household Income in Denver is over $20K more at $97,799.
- Colorado's flat 4.4% state income tax is lower than many other states. It is important to note that sales taxes can top 8% after local add-ons.
Great Neighborhoods
Is Denver a good place to live? The answer is yes. There are many highly sought-after neighborhoods, including those that embody the "classic Denver" feel. While there are so many recommendations, here are a few of the best areas to live in Denver.
Photo Credit: Marvin Anani
- Central Park: This area, formerly known as Stapleton, is highly walkable, master-planned, and features over 60 mini pocket parks. The top-rated schools and various home styles make it a great option for families and professionals.
- Washington Park: The Washington Park (Wash Park) and South Pearl Street neighborhood also sports the "traditional Denver vibe." It stands out for its tree-lined streets, walkability, and high-performing schools. This gorgeous area, though, is on the pricier end, with the average sales price in 2024 over $1.7 million.
- LoDo: The Lower Downtown (LoDo) area, situated near Union Station, is ideal for young professionals and those who enjoy the social scene. There are over 100 bars and restaurants, and you'll be close to watch the Rockies.
- South Park Hill, Lowry, and Littleton: These three suburbs are located 15-30 minutes from downtown Denver and offer a family-friendly atmosphere. The median home prices, ranging from $670-780K as of April 2025, are more affordable than those in Washington Park and Central Park.
Relocating to Denver? Store Smarter with Storage Star
If you're considering living in Denver, Colorado, and will need extra space for your household goods, seasonal gear, or even your vehicle, Storage Star has you covered. Our Denver, Colorado, storage facility, located on Grape Street, offers climate-controlled storage units and outdoor drive-up units. Our flexible month-to-month leases, extended access hours, and top-rated customer service will make settling into the Mile-High City a hassle-free experience.
Rent your storage unit online today - or call our storage experts for more assistance on finding the prope- or call our storage experts for more assistance in finding the perfect storage unit for Denver living!
FAQs
How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Denver?
As of 2025, the median rent for a one-bedroom has hovered around $1,700-$1,900 per month.
What is the median home price in Denver, CO?
As of 2025, the median home price in Denver, Colorado, is just over $600K.
What is the job market like in Denver, Colorado?
The job market is booming and is quite diverse! Tech, aerospace, healthcare, clean energy, hospitality, and cannabis are among the industries leading in hiring. The unemployment rate in Denver is typically below the national average.
What Denver neighborhoods are popular?
It depends on what you're looking for! Young professionals lean towards LoHi, RiNo, and Capitol Hill. These areas are highly walkable and have thrilling nightlife. Families typically look to Wash Park, Park Hill, and Central Park/Stapleton. For those who want to be in the suburbs, hot areas include Lakewood, Littleton, and Highlands Ranch.
How hot are the summers in Denver?
Summers are warm with highs in the 80s. The days are typically dry and rarely humid.
How is the traffic in Denver?
Commuting in Denver can be similar to commuting in other cities. Rush hour bottlenecks on I-25 and I-70 can add an additional 20-40 minutes to your commute. Many Denver residents prefer living near a light-rail line to make commuting easier.
How dog-friendly is Denver?
Denver is renowned for being extremely dog-friendly. There are numerous dog parks (some of which are off-leash), dog-friendly patios, and breweries that welcome dogs.
