Known as the “Mile High City,” Denver serves as a hub that caters to residents and visitors alike with its majestic mountain views and delicious culinary experiences. However, the question remains: Is Denver a great place to live? While Denver promises abundant outdoor activities, employment opportunities and an active lifestyle, it also faces unique challenges such as drought risk and a high cost of living. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in Denver to help you decide if it’s right for you.
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Basic information about Denver
| Median home sales price | $620,000 |
| average monthly rent | $1,814 |
| walk score | 61/100 |
| traffic score | 45/100 |
| bike score | 72/100 |
1. Pros: Stunning natural scenery
Denver is known for its stunning natural scenery, with the Rocky Mountains as its backdrop. The city’s proximity to nature offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities, making it a paradise for adventure. Whether it’s a weekend hike in the nearby foothills, skiing at world-class resorts like Aspen and Vail, or a day trip to explore the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park, there’s plenty to do here.
2. Disadvantages: High cost of living
One of the disadvantages of living in Denver is the high cost of living. The median home sales price is $620,000 and the average monthly rent is $1,814. Home prices have soared in recent years, putting home ownership out of reach for many people. Rent prices are also rising, and daily expenses like groceries and utility bills can be higher than the national average.
3. Pros: Booming job market
Denver has a strong job market, offering opportunities in a variety of industries including technology, healthcare, and finance. Home to several large companies such as Arrow Electronics and Lockheed Martin, as well as numerous innovative startups such as Ibotta and SendGrid, the city offers ample employment options. The existence of a diverse job market ensures residents have a variety of career paths to explore.
4. Disadvantages: high altitude
At 5,280 feet above sea level, Denver’s higher elevation can present challenges for residents, especially those not accustomed to the thinner air. Reduced oxygen levels can lead to altitude sickness, causing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and shortness of breath. Additionally, high altitude can exacerbate breathing problems and make physical activity more difficult. If you’re planning on moving to this city, you’ll need to take some time to adjust.
5. Advantages: Close to mountains
Denver’s proximity to mountains gives residents easy access to stunning natural landscapes, including the iconic Rocky Mountains, providing countless opportunities for outdoor adventures such as hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. Whether you’re heading to popular ski resorts like Breckenridge and Keystone in the winter or exploring the scenic trails in nearby national parks like Rocky Mountain National Park in the summer, Denver’s proximity to the mountains is a great place to live.
6. Disadvantages: Unpredictable weather
Denver’s weather is very unpredictable, and rapid changes can catch residents off guard. The city experiences four seasons, but the weather can change dramatically in a single day. For example, it’s not uncommon to see snow in the morning and sunshine in the afternoon. This unpredictability can be challenging for those who prefer more stable weather patterns.
7. Advantages: Crowded attractions
Denver’s status as a popular tourist destination means that its attractions, such as the Denver Zoo, Denver Art Museum, Red Rocks Park, and Amphitheater, often become crowded, especially during peak seasons. Long lines and crowded spaces can impact the overall experience for residents and visitors, especially those seeking a quieter or more intimate outing.
8. Disadvantage: Smoke from wildfires
Denver’s proximity to wildfire-prone areas of the western United States means the city occasionally experiences smoke from wildfires, especially in the summer. This smoke can lead to poor air quality and cause health problems for residents, especially those with respiratory problems.
9. Pros: Active lifestyle
Denver is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the United States, promoting an active lifestyle and boasting numerous parks, recreational facilities, and fitness centers. The city’s layout encourages walking, cycling and other forms of physical activity. Events like the Colfax Marathon and the Denver Century Ride attract people from all over the world. An emphasis on active lifestyles contributes to the overall well-being and health of residents.
10. Disadvantages: Limited water resources
Denver’s water shortage is a growing concern because the city relies heavily on supplies of snowmelt from the Rocky Mountains. Prolonged droughts and increasing demand have put pressure on these resources. Residents are often encouraged to conserve water, and restrictions may be imposed during periods of drought. For those used to more abundant water, this can be a significant disadvantage.
