Denver vs Phoenix: Cost of Living & Housing Comparison
Denver's median home value is $540,400 — 59% higher than Phoenix's $340,200.
Median household income is $85,853 in Denver versus $72,092 in Phoenix.
Typical rent runs $1,665 in Denver and $1,322 in Phoenix.
| Metric | Denver, CO | Phoenix, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 710,800 | 1,609,456 |
| Median home value | $540,400 | $340,200 |
| Median household income | $85,853 | $72,092 |
| Median gross rent | $1,665 | $1,322 |
| Climate risk (FEMA) | Relatively High | Very High |
On housing costs, Phoenix, AZ looks more affordable than Denver, CO — lower median home value and rent. This reflects housing only, not total cost of living.
- Best cities in Colorado
- Best cities in Arizona
- Seattle vs Denver: Cost of Living & Housing Comparison
- Austin vs Denver: Cost of Living & Housing Comparison
- Phoenix vs Los Angeles: Cost of Living & Housing Comparison
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey; FEMA National Risk Index
Data last updated July 2026.