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

Denver

Colorado
147
VS

Aurora

Colorado
130

Denver is 17% more expensive than Aurora.

$1,770/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,759/mo ≈ Same
$91,681/yr ↑ 9%
Median Income
$84,320/yr ↓ 8%
$586,700 ↑ 32%
Home Value
$444,500 ↓ 24%
$1,839/mo ↑ 4%
Owner Costs
$1,762/mo ↓ 4%
713,734
Population
390,201

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

23.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Denver, CO and Aurora, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 147 and 130 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $7,361/year higher in Denver. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Denver is $586,700 compared to $444,500 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Denver vs Aurora — common questions

Is Denver or Aurora cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 130 compared to 147 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Denver and Aurora?
Median rent in Denver is $1,770/month and in Aurora it's $1,759/month — a difference of $11/month.
Which city has higher income, Denver or Aurora?
Median household income is $91,681 in Denver and $84,320 in Aurora. Median household income is $7,361/year higher in Denver.
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 Aurora?
It depends on your priorities. Denver has a cost index of 147 with median rent of $1,770/mo, while Aurora has a cost index of 130 with rent of $1,759/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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