Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Denver, CO
Thinking about moving to Denver, CO? With a population over 713,000, Denver offers a vibrant urban lifestyle and abundant sunshine—69% of days are sunny! The median home price is $597,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom is about $1,950, reflecting a higher cost of living, but the city boasts strong education levels and a booming job market. Commutes average 27 minutes, and you'll find excellent healthcare and school options, though crime rates are above national averages. Explore Denver’s mix of urban energy, outdoor adventure, and career opportunities as you plan your move.
Demographics - Denver, CO
Demographics - Denver, CO
Denver is a diverse urban center with a population of over 713,000 and a median age of 35.5. The city features a mix of cultures, with nearly 18% of residents speaking a language other than English and a majority identifying as White, along with significant Black, Asian, and other communities. Its relatively balanced gender ratio and high population density create a lively and dynamic atmosphere.
Population:
713,252
Density:
4,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.5
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
17.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
53.8%
Black:
9.2%
Asian:
4.2%
Others:
32.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Denver, CO?
Denver's cost of living is above the national average, with a median home value of $597,000 and typical rent for a two-bedroom apartment around $1,950. State income tax is a flat 4.4%, and monthly utility costs remain moderate, but housing and transportation are notably higher than national benchmarks. Residents benefit from competitive grocery and healthcare costs, yet should budget for the city’s overall pricier lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$597,000
Gross Rent:
$1,750
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,620
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$680
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
4.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
134.5
Grocery:
104.9
Housing:
152.7
Utilities:
89.1
Transportation:
116.2
Health Care:
101.3
Miscellaneous:
106.8
Crime
Is Denver, CO a safe place to live?
Denver experiences higher crime rates compared to national norms, with about 797 violent crimes and 4,540 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. Residents face a 1 in 125 chance of being affected by violent crime and a 1 in 22 chance for property crime, so it's important to be mindful of safety in certain neighborhoods. Despite these figures, many people are drawn to the city’s urban amenities and vibrant culture.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
797
Property Crimes Per 100k:
4,540
Crime Index:
5,337
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 125
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 22
Weather
What is the weather like in Denver, CO year-round?
Denver enjoys a semi-arid climate with roughly 69% sunny days each year and distinct seasonal changes. Winters are mild, with highs averaging 46°F, while summers can reach up to 89°F, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The city receives about 15.6 inches of rainfall annually, supporting a comfortable, active lifestyle year-round.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
46°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
15.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
69%
Neighbors
Denver’s neighborhoods reflect a mix of incomes and educational backgrounds, with median household income around $80,800 and over half of adults holding at least a bachelor’s degree. Public transit is used by about 7.5% of residents and average commute times are just under 27 minutes. While the poverty rate is 12.8%, most households enjoy access to strong job markets and community amenities.
Median Income:
$45,800
Household Income:
$80,800
Family Income:
$97,200
Per Capita Income:
$47,800
Income Male:
$53,900
Income Female:
$44,600
Poverty Rate:
12.8%
Non English Speakers:
17.8%
Rent:
$1,750
Unemployment Rate:
3.6%
Public Transport Usage:
7.5%
Commute Time:
26.9 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.6%
Bachelors or More:
52.4%
Education
How are the schools in Denver, CO?
Denver boasts a robust educational landscape, featuring well-regarded public schools like East High School and a selection of private and charter options. Higher education is easily accessible, with institutions such as the University of Denver and Metropolitan State University of Denver enrolling thousands of students. This strong network supports lifelong learning and career advancement for residents.
Public Schools
Name:
East High School
Street:
1600 City Park Esplanade
Phone:
720-423-8300
Students:
2,700
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.4
Name:
DSST: Montview Middle School
Street:
2000 Valentia St
Phone:
303-320-5570
Students:
525
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.1
Private Schools
Name:
Denver Academy
Street:
4400 E Iliff Ave
Phone:
303-777-5870
Students:
400
Colleges
Name:
University of Denver
City:
Denver
State:
CO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
13,800
Name:
Metropolitan State University of Denver
City:
Denver
State:
CO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
16,400
Healthcare
Denver offers excellent healthcare access, with major hospitals like UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital and Denver Health Medical Center providing comprehensive services. The city has about 3.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 93% of people have health insurance. Its healthcare infrastructure supports a high quality of life for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital
Address:
12605 E 16th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045
Phone:
(720) 848-0000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Denver Health Medical Center
Address:
777 Bannock St, Denver, CO 80204
Phone:
(303) 436-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.7%
Health Care Index:
70.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Denver, CO?
Denver’s housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $597,000 and just under half of homes owner-occupied. Rental vacancy rates are moderate at 6.5%, and home values have appreciated by 2.8% over the past year, indicating steady demand. Both buyers and renters should expect a dynamic, fast-moving real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$597,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,950
Owner Occupied Rate:
49.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.8%
New Construction Rate:
2.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Denver residents are served by the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles, located in nearby Lakewood. Services include licensing, registration, and title needs, all accessible through the state’s DMV website or by phone. The DMV provides convenient access for both new arrivals and long-term locals.
State:
Colorado
Department:
Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1881 Pierce St, Lakewood, CO 80214
Phone:
303-205-5600
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.