Cost of Living: Denver, CO vs Chandler, AZ (2026)

Denver

Colorado
147
VS

Chandler

Arizona
134

Denver is 13% more expensive than Chandler.

$1,770/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,806/mo ↑ 2%
$91,681/yr ↓ 12%
Median Income
$103,691/yr ↑ 13%
$586,700 ↑ 25%
Home Value
$469,800 ↓ 20%
$1,839/mo ↑ 6%
Owner Costs
$1,743/mo ↓ 5%
713,734
Population
278,123

Tax Comparison

4.4%
Income Tax
2.5%
2.9%
Sales Tax
5.6%
0.51%
Property Tax
0.62%

Affordability

23.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Denver, CO and Chandler, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 147 and 134 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $12,010/year higher in Chandler. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Denver is $586,700 compared to $469,800 in Chandler.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Chandler slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Denver vs Chandler — common questions

Is Denver or Chandler cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Chandler is cheaper to live in with an index of 134 compared to 147 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Denver and Chandler?
Median rent in Denver is $1,770/month and in Chandler it's $1,806/month — a difference of $36/month.
Which city has higher income, Denver or Chandler?
Median household income is $91,681 in Denver and $103,691 in Chandler. Median household income is $12,010/year higher in Chandler.
How do taxes compare between Colorado and Arizona?
Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.
Should I move to Denver or Chandler?
It depends on your priorities. Denver has a cost index of 147 with median rent of $1,770/mo, while Chandler has a cost index of 134 with rent of $1,806/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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