We’ve done the research
Before You Start House Hunting or Calling the Movers…
Let’s take a quick look at what life in Denver is really like—from the lay of the land to what it’ll cost you to live here. It’s always good to know what you’re stepping into before making a big move!
Geography + Climate
Denver covers just over 153 square miles and sits right where the High Plains meet the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The South Platte River winds through the city, meeting Cherry Creek just east of downtown. And those iconic mountain views? They’re less than 15 miles away.
Thanks to its elevation, Denver gets over 300 days of sunshine a year—and we’re talking real sunshine. Rainfall is pretty minimal (usually between 8 to 15 inches annually), and while we do get snow, it tends to melt quickly. Humidity is low, even in summer, which makes the heat more bearable and the winters feel crisp rather than bone-chilling.
That said, the weather here can be all over the place. It’s not unusual for temps to swing 30 or 40 degrees in a single day. Layers and sunscreen? Always a smart move.
Neighborhood Vibes
Denver is made up of more than 80 neighborhoods, each with its own personality and charm. Whether you're into historic homes, new builds, quiet streets, or buzzy city living, there's a pocket of Denver that'll feel just right. The city is divided into nine broader regions—Central, East, West, North, South, Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, and Southwest.
Want to explore more? The official Denver Tourism website https://www.denver.org/about-denver/neighborhood-guides/ has a great breakdown of each neighborhood to help you start narrowing things down.
Cost of Living
Let’s talk numbers. According to Payscale, Denver’s cost of living is about 11% higher than the national average. Housing tends to be the biggest factor in that—home prices are definitely on the higher end—but day-to-day expenses like utilities, groceries, and transportation are typically around or even below the national average.
Career Opportunities
Denver’s job market is strong and diverse, which is a big reason people keep moving here. We’ve got growing industries like aerospace, bioscience, tech, healthcare, tourism, and energy. Major employers include the University of Colorado system, Centura Health, HealthONE, and local government agencies. Plus, with over 17 million visitors a year, tourism brings a lot of energy (and opportunity) to the area.
Schools + Education
Denver Public Schools serves the city with around 157 public schools, and there are also more than 200 private schools to choose from. For higher education, you’ve got solid options like the University of Denver, University of Colorado Denver, and Regis University—all right in town.