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Living in Denver, Colorado:
Tips for Moving and Visiting

41 local experts
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If you've been wondering what it's like to live in or visit Denver, the Crowdsourced Explorer community can help. We asked 41 people living in Denver what someone who is considering moving to or visiting there should know. Here are their pros and cons, tips, and advice:

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41 comments on “Denver”

It’s expensive now but a great place to enjoy restaurants, culture, and nice weather close to the mountains.

Denver used to be a charming little big city. Those days are gone. Crime – against both property and people – has skyrocketed to eye popping levels. Homelessness – both homegrown and refugee-based – has become a plague in which all sides are the losers. Regardless of who is in power, Denver’s political leadership is feckless and/or inept and/or corrupt. Maybe check back in a few years…

Recent growth has impacted affordable housing. Weather is great.

I’ve lived in Denver my entire life. I would say that the climate is nice, at least to me. The altitude and dry air gets to some of the newbies, but I enjoy the dryness. I think the best people in the greater Metro area are in South Denver Proper and to the direct west of there all the way to the Foothills.

Moving to Denver now is far more expensive than people think. The usual perception is that Denver is vastly cheaper than coastal cities like New York, San Francisco, and LA. While the cost of living may be a little cheaper overall, the lack of housing inventory makes buying a house anywhere near the city center to be nearly as expensive. On the bright side, the taxes are cheaper here and you get more services. Interestingly, we’ve recently shifted trash pickup to be usage based. That is, the bigger your trash can, the more you pay. However, we have curbside recycling (all recyclables in one bin) and composting both of which are free.

I absolutely love living in Denver! It has great quality restaurants, bars, and easy access to outdoor rec. Tons of community groups to join to make friends and lots and lots of dogs. Highly recommend!

Caitlin, says: 2023

When moving to Denver, it is important to consider the price of rent in comparison to the cost of living. Many of the jobs that are offered in Denver do not offer a salary that provides adequately for the cost of living in the city. If you want to live in a decent apartment, you may need two jobs.

Christie, says: 2020

While visiting Denver, make sure to take in both the city and nature. A beautiful drive to the mountains and Evergreen, Colorado, is only a thirty minute drive. Denver is both industrial and scenic! Visiting Denver could be the ideal vacation getaway for anyone seeking both city lights and mountain drives!

Denver is known for its legal cannabis, and it is been taxed and is sold recreationally and medically. The recreational age is 21, and the medical age is 18. It is prohibited to consume it publicly though.

Anyone that enjoys the performing arts, spending time in the outdoors, and having an endless stream of social events to choose from would love it here! We have great restaurants, gorgeous mountain views, and a culture of supporting small, local businesses that makes for a unique mix of big city appeal with small town charm. There’s something for everyone here.

Bridget, says: 2020

At exactly one mile above elevation, Denver, Colorado serves as a medium between a growing city and a beautiful mountain terrain. The humble city has grown rapidly. Economically the city booms with rising real estate transactions and supports the development of small businesses. Geographically, Denver is a colorful mixture of seasons surrounded by looming mountains all times of the year. Denver has increasingly become more recognized for the diverse melting pot it represents. Along the streets, a variety of influences coat the structural and commercial setting of this massive city.

Phoebe, says: 2020

Denver’s seasons are distinct from each other but do not have extreme conditions like other regions of the U.S, though all 4-seasons can be exemplified in one day depending on the time of year. For example, it may be a cold, brisk morning with snow on the ground, then by afternoon have sun beams melting the snow, to then become cloudy and windy, to then become warm again all in a matter of hours. This temperament surely makes it difficult to forecast accurate weather, yet it creates a beautiful scenery nearly all times of year.

Nicole, says: 2020

Denver started a number of chains like Chipotle and Quiznos. Small business owners fuel the economy. Properties are now valued higher and Denver’s market continues to become more economically competitive. More people come to take advantage of job opportunities or to advance themselves personally. There are majestic sunrises and sunsets over the mountains, making it a very wonderful place to be outdoors.

My city is the most beautiful city in my country. I know it can sound very selfish but this place is home to the largest nature reserve in the world. It is literally the lungs of the planet. If you decide to move here, you will have a healthy life and live much longer than most people.

Daniel, says: 2020

Denver is the “Mile-High City” rising 5,280 feet above sea level in the Rocky Mountains. While the air is thin up here, the weather is gorgeous and it’s said that there are 300 days of sunshine here. Denver is a rapidly-growing urban environment with more and more people flooding into its borders daily.

Debora, says: 2020

Upon moving to Denver, Colorado, you should consider altitude sickness. It is imperative to stay hydrated and keep drinking water consistently throughout the day. Summers are very hot and dry with possibilities of forest fires. Winter time in Denver can get freezing cold, but the snow is beautiful. Hiking is a favorite pastime for many people who reside here.

Denver is a city with unpredictable weather. You must wear layers in winter time to ensure that you will stay warm. It is not odd to have sun and snow in the same day. When the sun comes out, the snow melts quickly. Good snow boots and a jacket are a must have in Colorado.

Rebekah, says: 2020

The cost of living in Denver is extremely high. However, the perks of living in the city and being in such close proximity to the mountains, far outweigh the high cost of living. On Saturday, you can be hiking a fourteener and taking in all the mountain views, while the next day you can be brunching on a rooftop patio before catching an evening concert.

Ryanne, says: 2020

Denver is a lovely city located close to the Rocky Mountains. If you are a nature lover, Denver would suit you well. The economy is strong and growing. Housing prices are rising quickly, making it expensive to live in Denver. Altogether, I recommend Denver as a pleasant place.

Denver has become a pillar in promoting social change with statewide law changes in same-sex marriage, integrating controlled substances into medical and economic advancements, as well as taking various other social initiatives in creating a more prosperous place to be. It has led on a variety of examples for other places to begin discussions on long-standing issues, dating back to debates of women’s suffrage.

Eunice, says: 2020

Denver is in the state of Colorado. The elevation of the city of Denver is 5,280 feet above sea level. There is a thriving restaurant industry in the city including brewpubs, quick bites, and fine dining. The Denver area also has excellent entertainment options such as professional sports teams, amusement parks, and world-renowned performance art venues.

Christi, says: 2020

Denver is a beautiful city with a bustling nightlife. However, If nightlife isn’t for you, don’t fret, it is also known for its nature scene! Whether it’s city life or love of the wild, you will find exactly what you are looking for in Denver.

Juliette, says: 2020

When moving to Denver, Colorado, one should prepare for elevation by drinking twice the amount of water in the days leading to their arrival. Doing so reduces headaches and nausea. Upon arrival, one should continue to drink twice the amount of water for several weeks. They may also need Ibuprofen.

People should consider the amount of money that is required to move to Denver. Denver is an expensive city, so people need to be aware of the costs. However, Denver is a grand city with multitudinous opportunities for ambitious individuals to thrive in an environment that guides their passions.

Rebecca, says: 2020

There lies in the crevice between America’s Midwestern plains and its towering Rocky Mountains a town called Denver: America’s “Mile High City.” With a population frequently listed as one of the most active groups in America, climbers, skiers, mountain bikers, and runners flock the streets with their braided hair and impressive beards. Cannabis dispensaries on nearly every other corner invite these mountain-lovers in to complete the feeling of what it means to live “mile-high.”

Ayanna, says: 2020

Denver is an excellent place to raise a family. Good schools and nice neighborhoods are just two of the many perks of living in a larger city. There are many parks for taking children to play, make friends, and just enjoy nature. My favorite thing about Denver is the sunsets and the mountains, both majestic.

Faviola, says: 2020

Someone moving to Denver, CO should know about the vast amount of activities there are to do here. They should also know about the altitude and how to cure altitude sickness if they should happen to feel under the weather. With the vast amount of plains in the east and the massive mountains in the west, living in Denver is a never-ending dream.

Denver is a beautiful city with a diverse population. Residents enjoy being within close proximity to the mountains, which offer a plethora of recreational activities. While the mountains appeal to aficionados of outdoor activities, the city of Denver offers a completely different vibe, attracting both young and mature residents interested in a wide variety of foods, art and cultural experiences.

Michelle, says: 2020

Although the weather is pleasant and sunny most days of the year, the air in Denver is unbearably dry. Having moved from Florida, I wasn’t expecting how often I’d be inhaling a saline spray or applying ChapStick. The sun is also more powerful because of the altitude, so sunscreen and a full water bottle are important to have at all times.

Amanda, says: 2020

Over the last six years, there has been an influx of people moving to Denver. Several people I have spoken with have moved here believing the job market was stronger here. However, as they have discovered, that is not necessarily the case. If one moves to Denver in hopes of finding better employment opportunities, I would highly recommend researching available job positions in their career field before doing so.

Virginia, says: 2020

Denver has also experienced many surges in the realm of small business. Walking down the city streets and in surrounding areas, there is an array of entrepreneurial endeavors exhibited by store fronts and advertisements. There is an energy of encouragement for small “mom-and-pop” style stores, where some stores have existed across a multitude of generations and are locally recognized for their consistency. There are a number of restaurants with cuisines from all over the world, small clothing shops, photography businesses, construction companies and nearly all industries all cohesively working alongside each other.

Anyone moving to Denver should know the physical effects of the dry climate and high altitude. When first arriving in the Mile High City, new residents often find themselves dehydrated and suffering from altitude sickness. Proper hydration usually makes a huge difference in combating these reactions.

The nightlife is filled with a plethora of entertainment for all types of individuals, including nightclubs, restaurants, plays, seasonal festivals and concerts. Also, the ski areas are all within a short distance and are sure to please all experience levels, from beginners to experts. The people are friendly and there is plenty of employment opportunities.

Kimberly, says: 2020

Prior to moving to Denver, one should be sure that they are equipped to drive on snow. Snow tires, a steady hand and patience are required to be a safe driver in dangerous conditions. Additionally, one should watch their speed and distance while driving on busy roads or interstates.

Lester, says: 2020

Denver is a blossoming city with many diverse individuals looking to venture out into the wilderness. There are plenty of outdoor and indoor activities for every age group so if you’re looking for a nice blend of both, then Denver could be the place for you. I have never been bored in this city. There is always so much to explore!

Selina, says: 2020

A person moving to Denver should know high prices for living expenses. They will need to prepare for some of the unrest occurring at this time. The recent civil-rights issues has the city at a high level of unease. prepare for 300 days of sunshine. I plan to stay here for a long time.

Katherine, says: 2020

Denver is the mile high city because it sits at an elevation that is one mile above sea level. This elevation tends to cause altitude sickness which most visitors tend to suffer from. The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to stay well-hydrated by drinking lots of water or other non-caffeinated drinks.

Connor, says: 2020

Denver is astonishingly beautiful yet very lively. You may meet some incredible people and friends while visiting. The state is also notorious for its odd biodiversity. The bodies of water in Colorado are so sensitive that even a single human getting into the water could wreak havoc on the ecosystem around the body of water.

Elijah, says: 2020

Denver is a city everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. There is something for everyone here. it is also very heavily populated. Traffic is starting to mimic the highways of California making a five mile commute take up to an hour at times. Home prices have also increased drastically making it difficult for first time homebuyers to purchase a home.

Denver isn’t the sort of place for homebodies and shut-ins. All the goings-on take place outdoors; there’s no other city quite like it. I wouldn’t recommend moving to Denver if you’re raising young children, however—the school systems aren’t very well-funded, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a motorist with a muffler driving down a Denver road.

Jessica, says: 2020

Someone moving to Denver should know the mountains are very close to the city. The mountains, called the Rocky Mountains, offer a wide breadth of leisurely activities, including hiking, biking and skiing. Denver is a city most easily navigated by car, although there are public transportation options available as well.

Carrol, says: 2020

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Names of respondents may have been changed.

See other cities and towns in Colorado.

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