Cost of Living: Indianapolis, IN vs Denver, CO (2026)

Indianapolis

Indiana
74
VS

Denver

Colorado
147

Indianapolis is 50% cheaper than Denver.

$1,112/mo ↓ 37%
Median Rent
$1,770/mo ↑ 59%
$62,995/yr ↓ 31%
Median Income
$91,681/yr ↑ 46%
$207,000 ↓ 65%
Home Value
$586,700 ↑ 183%
$1,124/mo ↓ 39%
Owner Costs
$1,839/mo ↑ 64%
882,043
Population
713,734

Tax Comparison

3.05%
Income Tax
4.4%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
2.9%
0.83%
Property Tax
0.51%

Affordability

21.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.2%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Indianapolis, IN and Denver, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 74 and 147 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $658/month cheaper in Indianapolis, saving renters about $7,896/year.

Median household income is $28,686/year higher in Denver. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Indianapolis is $207,000 compared to $586,700 in Denver.

Indiana has a lower income tax rate, making Indianapolis slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Indianapolis vs Denver — common questions

Is Indianapolis or Denver cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Indianapolis is cheaper to live in with an index of 74 compared to 147 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Indianapolis and Denver?
Median rent in Indianapolis is $1,112/month and in Denver it's $1,770/month — a difference of $658/month.
Which city has higher income, Indianapolis or Denver?
Median household income is $62,995 in Indianapolis and $91,681 in Denver. Median household income is $28,686/year higher in Denver.
How do taxes compare between Indiana and Colorado?
Indiana has 3.05% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.
Should I move to Indianapolis or Denver?
It depends on your priorities. Indianapolis has a cost index of 74 with median rent of $1,112/mo, while Denver has a cost index of 147 with rent of $1,770/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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