20 Things to Know Before Moving to Denver [2025]

Thinking of moving to Denver? You’re not alone. Whether it’s the strong job market or affordable cost of living, it’s easy to see why people are flocking here.

Before moving to Denver, there are a few things you need to know. Remember these key things to make living in Denver an easier transition and more enjoyable.

Key Insights for Renters Moving to Denver

• Denver rent isn’t cheap, but it's still more affordable than cities like San Francisco and Seattle. Expect to pay around $1,809 for a one-bedroom or $2,395 for a two-bedroom.
• To qualify for most apartments using the 30% rule, you'll need to earn around $72,360 for a one-bedroom or $95,800 for a two-bedroom.
• Each neighborhood has its own identity: RiNo is artsy and hip, LoDo is central and social, and Capitol Hill blends old charm with urban energy.
• While most Denverites still drive, biking and public transit (like RTD buses and light rail) offer solid alternatives, depending on where you live.
• Denver is growing fast, and rising demand means renters should move quickly—especially if you're targeting popular neighborhoods or peak season move-ins.

Moving to Denver

1. Is Denver Booming?

Yes, Denver is booming, just not as fast as it used to. The city’s population keeps climbing, with the metro area growing 2.8%—about 82,000 people—between 2020 and 2024, thanks to steady immigration and more births than deaths. In 2025, Denver County’s growth is a modest 0.43%.

Year over year, job growth in Colorado clocked in at 0.7%, modest but improving from 0.1% in March. That said, Denver specifically grew jobs by only 0.5% in May, well behind its national peers.

2. What Are the Best Outdoor Activities Near Denver?

If you love getting outside, Denver’s got you covered. From skiing to rafting to hiking, outdoor adventures are always within reach, many just a short drive away.

Living in Denver means you’re surrounded by ways to stay active. Winter sports lovers will be in heaven, with top ski resorts close by. And when the snow melts? Trailheads, rapids, and scenic drives take center stage.

Quick Getaways Within Two Hours of Denver

When we say that Denverites are in a prime location to amazing outdoor recreation spots, we aren’t kidding. Here are some must-see spots, all within a 1.5-hour drive:

• Rocky Mountain National Park: Hiking, horseback riding, camping, lakes, and waterfalls—it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Mount Blue Sky: Summit Mount Blue Sky for some of the most gorgeous views you’ll find across Colorado.
• Idaho Springs: For whitewater rafting through Clear Creek on a hot summer’s day.

Of course, Colorado is also home to some of the world’s best ski destinations, many of which are within an hour of central Denver, including Copper Mountain, Vail, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, Loveland, Eldora, and Winter Park.

3. What Is the Cost of Living in Denver?

The cost of living in Denver is 27.6% higher than the national average.

If you are moving to Denver from a big city like New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles, Denver’s cost of living will seem very affordable. However, due to Denver’s rapid growth, the cost of living has gone up as well. Denver is currently 10% more expensive than the average city in our database, with the average resident spending around $5,042 a month.

Currently, rent prices in Denver stand at a median of $1,494 for a one-bedroom apartment and $1,861 for a two-bedroom. Averages are $1,809 for a one-bedroom and $2,395 for a two-bedroom as of August 2025. Rents took a bit of a hit during the pandemic, but are quickly rising again.

Learn more about rent prices in Denver by checking out our current listings.

4. Where Do Denver Residents Move From?

Most new Denverites are coming from larger metropolitan areas like New York, Dallas, and Boulder. Similarly, renters currently living in Denver and searching for apartments are looking to stay in nearby Colorado Springs and Boulder. They're also considering Kansas City.

For more information, read our Renter Migration Report.

5. Does Denver Really Get 300 Days of Sunshine a Year?

Yes—Denver averages more than 300 sunny days a year. That’s more than San Diego or Miami.

If you enjoy having all four seasons, moving to Denver will be perfect for you. You might think of Colorado and immediately imagine snow-capped mountains and ski resorts. While Colorado definitely offers that, you won’t necessarily find this type of winter wonderland climate in Denver.

Denver sees over 300 sunny days a year, and while snow will fall during the winter, it doesn’t usually stick on the ground for very long.

6. Does the Altitude In Denver Affect You?

Yes, especially at first. Denver sits about one mile above sea level, and the thinner air can leave you winded—even on a short jog.

The dry, high-altitude climate also means you’ll need to hydrate more and be diligent with sunscreen. You’re closer to the sun here, and that sunburn can sneak up on you fast. Most people adjust quickly, but it’s something to keep in mind as you settle in.

7. Why Is Denver Considered One of the Healthiest Cities?

Denver residents love the outdoors and take advantage of everything the Centennial State has to offer. World-renowned ski resorts, white-water rafting, backcountry skiing, mountain biking—the state truly has it all. It’s no wonder that Denver is one of the top 10 healthiest cities in the U.S.

If you want to fit in right away, buy a bike and hit the mountains. Living in Denver will put you within prime distance of incredible outdoor recreation opportunities.

8. Does Denver Have a Good Job Market?

The job market is thriving, and employees are loving it. Based on results from Apartment List’s annual satisfaction survey, Denver ranked the fourth-highest for job satisfaction out of 103 large U.S. cities, with 67.6% of respondents reporting being somewhat satisfied or very satisfied with the Denver job market.

9. What Are the Top Industries in Denver?

According to the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, there are nine job industries that contribute to the thriving economy. It’s a diverse group of industries that offer a variety of different jobs:

• Aerospace
• Aviation
• Beverage and food production
• Bioscience
• Broadcasting and telecommunications
• Energy and natural resources
• Financial services
• Healthcare and wellness
• Information technology software

10. Is Denver a Diverse City?

According to Niche, Denver has an A diversity score, with growing representation from various ethnic and racial groups. In fact, according to a recent poll, there’s an increasing 13% portion of the population that identifies as multiracial.

Denver neighborhoods each have their own characteristics that make them unique. If you’re moving to Denver, it’s best to go visit and walk around the different neighborhoods. They all have their own look and feel, and all offer different things. Below are a few of Denver’s popular neighborhoods.

River North Arts District

River North Arts District (RiNo) is the heart of Denver’s arts and culture scene. Old warehouses have now been converted into galleries, restaurants, breweries, and music venues.

Lower Downtown

If you want to live in the center of it all, Lower Downtown (LoDo) is the spot for you. You’ll be in the middle of all of Downtown Denver’s nightlife, sports games, and shopping.

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill (Cap Hill) is Denver’s most densely populated area, and about 1.5 miles south of the center of Downtown. This area is a combo of modern and historic charm, and tons of great restaurants and coffee shops.

11. Is Denver a Beer City?

Denver natives take their beer seriously. In fact, the whole state of Colorado takes beer seriously. Beer giants like Coors Brewing Company and New Belgium Brewing call Colorado their home.

However, the microbrewery movement has been ever-present in Denver. There will be a different brewery for you to check out on every corner. If you love beer, you’ll enjoy living in Denver.

Ready to go for a tasting or two? Here are some of the best Denver breweries to check out:

• Denver Beer Company
• The Grateful Gnome
• Bruz Beers
• Odell Brewing
• Ratio Beerworks
• River North Brewery

12. Is Recreational Marijuana Legal in Denver?

As most already know, marijuana is legal for recreational use in the state of Colorado. In 2012, Colorado and Washington became the first two states to legalize recreational use. Depending on where you’re from, this might cause a bit of culture shock, so just be prepared.

13. Is Denver a Good Sports City?

Sports lovers, Denver is for you. Whether it’s football, basketball, baseball or hockey, there’s something for everyone. Home of the Broncos, Rockies, Nuggets, and Avalanche, Denver residents rally around their professional teams. The stadiums are all conveniently nestled in downtown Denver as well.

14. Is Denver Good for Families?

Of the top 50 cities in the United States, Denver ranked the 10th-best city for families. The score was largely based on high rankings in rent affordability and education. However, moving to Denver and renting an apartment right downtown probably isn’t the optimal place to raise a family due to the hustle and bustle.

Some of our favorite affordable neighborhoods for families include:

• Cherry Creek
• Washington Park West
• Platt Park
• Berkeley
• Central Park

15. Does Denver Have a Good Quality of Life?

From Apartment List’s renter confidence survey, renters rated Denver highly for almost every category. Recreational activities and social life scored the highest. The only thing renters in Denver dislike is the city’s lack of affordability.

Denver has invested heavily in the importance of multifamily construction, which may stunt the rent growth.

16. How Many Parks Does Denver Have?

More than 200. Denver is packed with parks, big, small, and everything in between.

In City Park, you’ll find the Denver Zoo and the Museum of Nature and Science. Washington Park is another excellent option to go for a walk or a picnic. This park has tons of open green space, and even paddle boats to take out on the lake.

17. Is Denver Easy to Get Around Without a Car?

Some areas are, especially Downtown. Overall, Denver scores 61 out of 100 on Walk Score, which means you can run some errands on foot, but you’ll still lean on transit or a car for others. In pockets like the Central Business District (CBD) and LoDo, walkability soars into the 90s, which is “walker’s paradise” status.

Transit options are solid too, thanks to RTD’s expansive network of buses and light rail. There are 127 bus routes and 10 rail lines that crisscross the region. Plus, Denver is making it easier to mix modes, with shared e-bikes and scooters (via Lime and Bird), trip planning tools, and even scooter fare integration with RTD.

On top of that, Denver boasts 850 miles of paved, off-street bike and walking trails, weaving through parks, along the South Platte River, and across neighborhoods, making biking for errands or leisure a real option for many.

18. Is Denver Good for Young Professionals and Families?

Millennials and Gen Z-ers love living in Denver for its cultural amenities, growing food scene, craft brews around every corner, and plenty of green space—with a booming job market and trendy neighborhoods,

Denver is ideal for young, hip professionals and families who want the best of city living without the intense hustle and bustle of New York, Chicago, or San Francisco. Of course, some people moving to Denver may not want a young, hip crowd, but for everyone else, the city is waiting.

19. Is Denver a Good College Town?

There are plenty of opportunities to pursue higher education in Denver at area colleges and universities. A few options include the University of Denver, the Metropolitan State University of Denver, the University of Colorado Denver, Regis University, and the Denver College of Nursing. If you're looking for a college town experience inside a big city, Denver offers it.

Denver is the perfect spot for college students who enjoy access to skiing, hiking, mountain biking, and outdoor pursuits in the morning, followed by a beer crawl in the evening. You can earn a top-notch education while enjoying the best of what the city has to offer. With such a booming job market, you'll also have your pick of anything from aerospace to information technology.

20. Is Denver a Sustainable City?

Denver has an undeniable commitment to sustainability, perhaps due to the vast territories of natural beauty that are at the core of the city's tourism industry. That means if you want to live in a green city, Denver could be a great choice for you.

In 2020, National Geographic UK named Denver the fourth-most sustainable city in the world.

21. What Are Some of the Best Things to Do in Denver?

Denver offers something for everyone, from outdoor fun to microbreweries and a thriving sports scene. Take a bike ride through the city and stop at your favorite coffee shops or breweries, spend the afternoon at the Denver Botanic Gardens, see a museum, or take in a game at Coors Field. For a glimpse of history, stop for a bite or brewery at the landmark Denver Union Station.

22. What Are the Pros and Cons of Living in Denver?

There are plenty of reasons to move to Denver, be it the mile-high living, booming job market, or active, outdoorsy lifestyle. The majority of the population is under 44 years old, making the city a welcoming place for new ideas and energy. However, some cons, like the rising cost of living, expensive housing, and high altitude, can sometimes make you feel winded.

23. How Are the Taxes In Denver?

The minimum combined sales tax rate for Denver is currently 9.15%. This figure represents the total state, county, and city sales tax rates. Although you will spend more on sales tax in Denver than in other cities around Colorado, the overall tax burden is considered somewhere in the middle when compared to the rest of the country.

Finding your Denver Apartment

Convinced that moving to Denver is the right decision for you? Here’s a guide on how to find an apartment in Denver. Also, be sure to look into finding affordable Denver movers to cut down on those pricey moving costs.

Apartment List can also help you discover the perfect neighborhood and place to live so you can start living your Mile High dreams. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching. Start your search today!

What to Know Before Moving to Denver in 2025

What's the weather in Denver?

Denver delivers on all four seasons, from winter wonderland to 300 days of sunshine a year and warm weather. The snow melts quickly in the Fall, making it ideal for bike roads through the city or day trips. Beyond the water, you'll need to adjust to the thin air and live one mile above sea level.

What's the timezone in Denver?

Denver is on Mountain Daylight Time. If it's 8:20 pm in New York City, it will be 6.20 pm in Denver.

What to do in Denver?

Denver takes the microbrews seriously, from Denver Beer Co. to the Great Divide breweries. Recreational marijuana is also legal throughout Colorado, with dispensaries peppered throughout Denver and beyond. You'll also find plenty of parks like City Park and Washington Park to enjoy the 300 days of sunshine. For sports, root for the Broncos, Rockies, Nuggets, or Avalanche and join the cheers.

What county is Denver in?

Six counties, including Adams, Arapahoe, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, and Jefferson, make up Denver. Denver is part of the "Front Range Urban Corridor," which is the easternmost section of the Southern Rocky Mountains extending 300-miles.

What are the benefits of moving to Denver?

One of the biggest benefits of moving to Denver is its growing job market. You'll have plenty of career opportunities while enjoying the great outdoors. You can bike to work and then hit the microbreweries before taking in live music. On weekends, take a day trip to go mountain biking or snow skiing on snowy winter days.

What are the pros and cons of living in Denver?

Denver comes with major wins, to city living, like a booming job marketing and active, outdoorsy lifestyle. The majority of the population is under 44-years-old, making the city a welcoming place for new ideas and energy. However, some cons, like the rising cost of living, expensive housing, and high altitude, can sometimes make you feel winded.

What's it like living in Denver?

Denver's population and the job market is booming, with the city transforming into a premier tech hub. When locals aren't working remotely or in Downtown Denver, you'll have plenty of opportunities to get outside to enjoy skiing, biking, hiking, and more. After a long day of work or play, hit one of the dozens of microbreweries and eateries worthy of a foodie.

What are the taxes in Denver?

The minimum combined sales tax rate for Denver is currently 8.81%. This figure represents the total state, county, and city sales tax rates. Although you will spend more on sales tax in Denver than in other cities around Colorado, the overall tax burden is considered somewhere in the middle when compared to the rest of the country.

What jobs are popular in Denver?

Denver is highly ranked for job satisfaction, with 67% of respondents reporting being satisfied or very satisfied with the local job market. The diverse range of industries keeps career-climbers busy. Choose from jobs in aerospace, aviation, beverage, production, bioscience, broadcasting & telecommunications, energy and financial services, healthcare & wellness, and IT software.

What are things to do in Denver?

Denver offers something for everyone from outdoor fun to microbreweries and a thriving sports scene. Take a bike ride through the city and stop at your favorite coffee shops or breweries, spend the afternoon at the Denver Botanic Gardens, see a museum, or take in a game at Coors Field. For a glimpse of history, stop for a bite or brewery at the landmark Denver Union Station.