Is Denver or Salt Lake City more affordable?
Denver has a median rent of $1,495/month, while Salt Lake City is $1,450/month. Salt Lake City is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Denver, CO vs Salt Lake City, UT
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Denver and Salt Lake City.
3
Denver wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Salt Lake City wins
CO
Denver
vs
UT
Salt Lake City
Overview
706,799
Population
199,723
$78,177✓
Median Income
-25.8%$58,000
Cost of Living
$1,495
Median Rent / mo
-3.0%$1,450✓
$459,100✓
Median Home Price
+4.6%$480,000
23%
Rent-to-Income %
30%
Taxes
4.40%✓
State Income Tax
4.65%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
56.19°F
Avg High Temp
65°F
51.3°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
222 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
17"
Who should choose
Denver, CO
Denver is a city in Colorado with a population of 706,799.
Read full Denver guide →Who should choose
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City guide →Denver vs Salt Lake City — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Denver or Salt Lake City?
Colorado has a 4.40% state income tax. Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Denver wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Denver and Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Avg high in Denver: 56.19°F. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F
Which city is better for families — Denver or Salt Lake City?
Denver. Salt Lake City. 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.