Cost of Living: New York, NY vs Denver, CO (2026)

New York

New York
166
VS

Denver

Colorado
147

New York is 13% more expensive than Denver.

$1,779/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,770/mo ≈ Same
$79,713/yr ↓ 13%
Median Income
$91,681/yr ↑ 15%
$751,700 ↑ 28%
Home Value
$586,700 ↓ 22%
$1,837/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,839/mo ≈ Same
8,516,202
Population
713,734

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
4.4%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
2.9%
1.62%
Property Tax
0.51%

Affordability

26.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.2%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing New York, NY and Denver, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 166 and 147 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $11,968/year higher in Denver. Home values also differ significantly — the median in New York is $751,700 compared to $586,700 in Denver.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Denver slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

New York vs Denver — common questions

Is New York or Denver cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Denver is cheaper to live in with an index of 147 compared to 166 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between New York and Denver?
Median rent in New York is $1,779/month and in Denver it's $1,770/month — a difference of $9/month.
Which city has higher income, New York or Denver?
Median household income is $79,713 in New York and $91,681 in Denver. Median household income is $11,968/year higher in Denver.
How do taxes compare between New York and Colorado?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.
Should I move to New York or Denver?
It depends on your priorities. New York has a cost index of 166 with median rent of $1,779/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.
View New York details → View Denver details →

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