Cost of Living in Denver, CO
Denver's cost of living index is 128 — 28% more expensive than the national average. Colorado has a state income tax and a statewide COL index of 105.
COL Index
128
100 = national avg
Monthly Budget
$6,400
vs $5,000 national
Population
0.7M
Metro area
State Tax
Yes
Colorado
Monthly Cost Breakdown
Estimated monthly costs in Denver vs national average for a typical household.
| Category | National Avg | Denver | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,650 | $2,343 | +$693 |
| Groceries | $650 | $796 | +$146 |
| Transportation | $800 | $1,002 | +$202 |
| Healthcare | $400 | $478 | +$78 |
| Utilities | $300 | $384 | +$84 |
| Other | $1,200 | $1,469 | +$269 |
| Total | $5,000 | $6,400 | +$1,400 |
Salary Equivalent
To maintain the same standard of living in Denver, a national-average salary translates to:
$50,000 nationally
$64,000
$75,000 nationally
$96,000
$100,000 nationally
$128,000
$150,000 nationally
$192,000