Cost of Living in Denver County, Colorado
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Denver County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Denver County ranks #2,927 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 7%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Denver County, Colorado
Denver's rent burden outpaces nation
Denver residents spend 23.2% of their income on rent, compared to the national median of roughly 28-30% for renters nationally, putting the county in moderate territory. With a median household income of $91,681—well above the national average of $74,755—Denverites earn more but also face steeper housing costs than most Americans.
Above average among Colorado counties
Denver's 23.2% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Colorado's state average of 20.2%, placing it in the less affordable tier within the state. The county's median rent of $1,770 is 41% higher than the statewide average of $1,253.
More expensive than most Colorado peers
Denver's median rent of $1,770 edges out Eagle County ($2,032) and Douglas County ($2,095), making it the third-priciest rental market among its peer counties. However, Denver households earn significantly less than Douglas County ($145,737) and Elbert County ($129,477), narrowing its affordability advantage.
Renting costs more than buying here
Renters pay $1,770 monthly while homeowners face $1,979 in monthly costs on a median home value of $586,700. On a $91,681 median income, Denver households dedicate roughly 23% to rent or 26% to mortgage payments, leaving limited room for other expenses.
High earners find Denver reasonable
If you're relocating to Colorado and earning above $90,000, Denver offers urban amenities with manageable housing costs. But renters on smaller incomes should compare El Paso County ($1,609 rent) or Fremont County ($1,036 rent) for significantly lower burden.
Cost of Living Advisory: Denver County
Affordability Verdict
Denver County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,770/month — about 23.2% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Denver County is $1,770/month, while owner costs run $1,979/month. Renting saves approximately $209/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $70,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $84,814/year. With a median household income of $91,681, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Denver County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Denver County sits 3% more expensive than Adams County ($1,713/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Denver County
Rent Burden
23.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,139
per month
Owner Cost Burden
25.9%
of gross income
The median home in Denver County may be a stretch
Median home value is $586,700. Estimated monthly cost: $4,684 vs. your max of $2,139.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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