Is Denver or Seattle more affordable?
Denver has a median rent of $1,495/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Denver is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Denver, CO vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Denver and Seattle.
2
Denver wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Seattle wins
CO
Denver
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
706,799
Population
726,054
$78,177
Median Income
+34.8%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$1,495✓
Median Rent / mo
+20.5%$1,801
$459,100✓
Median Home Price
+67.2%$767,500
23%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
4.40%
State Income Tax
None✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
56.19°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
51.3°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Denver, CO
Denver is a city in Colorado with a population of 706,799.
Read full Denver guide →Who should choose
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Denver vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Denver or Seattle?
Colorado has a 4.40% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Denver and Seattle?
Avg high in Denver: 56.19°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Denver or Seattle?
Denver. Seattle. 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.