Is Denver or Los Angeles more affordable?
Denver has a median rent of $1,495/month, while Los Angeles is $1,852/month. Denver is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Denver, CO vs Los Angeles, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Denver and Los Angeles.
4
Denver wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Los Angeles wins
CO
Denver
vs
CA
Los Angeles
Overview
706,799
Population
3,898,747
$78,177✓
Median Income
-11.6%$69,144
Cost of Living
$1,495✓
Median Rent / mo
+23.9%$1,852
$459,100✓
Median Home Price
+63.4%$750,000
23%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
4.40%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.50%
Climate & Weather
56.19°F
Avg High Temp
75°F
51.3°F
Avg Low Temp
58°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
284 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
15"
Who should choose
Denver, CO
Denver is a city in Colorado with a population of 706,799.
Read full Denver guide →Who should choose
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a city in California with a population of 3,898,747.
Read full Los Angeles guide →Denver vs Los Angeles — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Denver or Los Angeles?
Colorado has a 4.40% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Denver wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Denver and Los Angeles?
Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. Avg high in Denver: 56.19°F. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F
Which city is better for families — Denver or Los Angeles?
Denver. Los Angeles. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.