Living & Working in Denver
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
Median home price is $558,705 . Buying analysis suggests higher upfront costs but potential long-term savings compared to renting.
Neighborhoods by Value & Commute
Elyria-Swansea
URBANHighland
URBANQuick Decision Guide
Major HVAC Employers
Top-Rated School Districts in Denver, CO
- Cherry Creek School District: Consistently ranked among the best in Colorado, with high test scores and graduation rates. Source: Niche.
- Douglas County School District: Known for strong academic programs and extracurricular opportunities. Source: GreatSchools.
- Boulder Valley School District: Offers excellent arts and STEM programs. Source: Niche.
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Childcare Costs in Denver, CO
- Daycare: Average monthly cost ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 for full-time care. Source: Care.com.
- Nanny: Full-time nanny services average $2,500 to $3,500 per month. Source: Care.com.
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Recommended Pediatricians or Family Clinics
- Pediatric Partners of the Southwest: Located in Littleton, highly rated for patient care.
- Children's Hospital Colorado Primary Care: Multiple locations, including
Work-Life Balance Culture
Denver is known for its strong emphasis on work-life balance, with many companies offering flexible schedules and remote work options. The city's outdoor-centric lifestyle encourages residents to prioritize leisure and wellness. Tech and startup cultures thrive here, but the overall vibe remains laid-back compared to coastal cities.
Fitness Facilities
- Gyms:
- Denver Athletic Club (downtown, $150-$200/month)
- VASA Fitness (multiple locations, $10-$30/month)
- The River Yoga (RiNo, $20/class or $120/month)
- Parks & Trails:
- City Park (free, 330 acres)
- Cherry Creek Trail (16.5 miles, free)
- Red Rocks Park (free, iconic for hiking and concerts)
Dining Costs
- Lunch: $12-$18 (e.g., Snarf's Sandwiches, $10-$14)
- Dinner: $25-$45 (e.g., Root Down, $30-$40)
- Drinks: $6-$12 (e.g., Union Station bars, $8-$12/cocktail)
Financial Facts for Denver, CO
- State Income Tax Rate: Colorado imposes a flat income tax rate of 4.25% on all taxable income, including for residents of Denver. This rate applies to both state and local taxes in certain cities, such as here. (Source: AARP Colorado State Taxes Guide)
- Property Tax Average: The average effective property tax rate in Denver is approximately 0.49%, one of the lowest in the nation. Residential properties are assessed at 6.25% for local government and 7.05% for schools. (Source: SmartAsset Colorado Property Tax Calculator)
- Cost of Living Comparison: Denver's cost of living is approximately 12% higher than the national average and 5-10% higher than nearby cities like Colorado Springs. Housing costs are a significant driver of this disparity. (Source: Bankrate Cost of Living Calculator)
- Growing Industries Creating Jobs: Key industries driving job growth in Denver include advanced manufacturing, aerospace, bioscience, and outdoor recreation. The state's Advanced Industries Accelerator Program supports job creation in these sectors. ([Source: Metro here Economic Profile](https://www.metrodenver.org/sites