Cost of Living: Denver, CO vs Arvada, CO (2026)

Denver

Colorado
147
VS

Arvada

Colorado
152

Denver is 3% cheaper than Arvada.

$1,770/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,802/mo ↑ 2%
$91,681/yr ↓ 19%
Median Income
$113,396/yr ↑ 24%
$586,700 ↓ 2%
Home Value
$600,800 ↑ 2%
$1,839/mo ↓ 6%
Owner Costs
$1,948/mo ↑ 6%
713,734
Population
122,835

Tax Comparison

4.4%
Income Tax
4.4%
2.9%
State Sales Tax
2.9%
0.51%
Property Tax
0.51%

Affordability

23.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Denver, CO and Arvada, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 147 and 152 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $21,715/year higher in Arvada. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Denver is $586,700 compared to $600,800 in Arvada.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Colorado.

Frequently Asked Questions

Denver vs Arvada — common questions

Is Denver or Arvada cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Denver is cheaper to live in with an index of 147 compared to 152 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Denver and Arvada?
Median rent in Denver is $1,770/month and in Arvada it's $1,802/month — a difference of $32/month.
Which city has higher income, Denver or Arvada?
Median household income is $91,681 in Denver and $113,396 in Arvada. Median household income is $21,715/year higher in Arvada.
How do taxes compare between Colorado and Colorado?
Both cities are in Colorado and share the same state tax rates: 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.
Should I move to Denver or Arvada?
It depends on your priorities. Denver has a cost index of 147 with median rent of $1,770/mo, while Arvada has a cost index of 152 with rent of $1,802/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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