8 Things to Know Before Moving to Denver, Colorado

Considering a move to Denver but feeling a bit uncertain? Known as the Mile High City, Denver offers a unique blend of natural beauty, career opportunities, and a lively metropolitan vibe. With stunning mountain views and a lifestyle centered around outdoor appreciation, it's a city that attracts everyone, from young professionals to families seeking a fresh start.

To ensure a smooth transition, it's essential to be well-prepared and remember the things to know before moving to Denver. Knowing how to pack fragile items and larger essentials, like how to pack a mattress for moving, can make all the difference. Our "Moving to Denver" guide covers everything you need to know, helping you plan a seamless move and get ready to enjoy everything this city has to offer.

What to Know Before Moving to Denver?

There are some key things to know before moving to Denver. What are those? Let's find out.

1. Cost of Living

The cost of living in Denver, Colorado, is somewhere in between all the other major cities of the US. It is not as expensive as LA but not as cheap as Texas, either. Housing costs have seen a rapid increase in the recent years. So, you need to look into the costs of that particular area before moving to Denver.

For instance - if you are moving from big cities like LA or San Francisco or making a long-distance move to Denver, the place will seem pretty affordable to you. As per payscale, the average cost of living in Denver is 11% higher, and housing expenses are 36% higher than the national average. Thus, the cost of living plays a significant role in making a decision to move to Denver.

2. Choose Your Neighborhood Wisely

The neighborhoods of Denver are unique and diverse, all having their own vibe. Therefore, you must go through the list of Denver's best places to live and choose wisely. Let's take Capitol Hill, for example. The place is lively and eclectic. The area of Uptown is surrounded by young people and drinking establishments and is considered one of the best Denver neighborhoods for young professionals. Country Club is expensive. And the list goes on.

There are some key things to know before moving to Denver. What are those? Let's find out.

Whether you want to dive into the trendy vibes or historic charm, Denver's neighborhood has something for everyone to suit their taste. Research the neighborhood areas thoroughly before signing a lease. Because the choice of neighborhood largely determines your living experience.

3. Traffic Is a Nightmare

Traffic in Denver is like a nightmare. If you are coming from a big city like Austin or Chicago, it won't feel that bad to you. But here is the catch: The rush hour is the worst one where you can see noticeable traffic. In fact, drivers in Denver waste an average of 63 hours every year due to congestion.

It is relatively easy to go around the place even without your own four-wheeler vehicle. You can use regional transport district buses for the same.

4. Denver's Job Market is Booming

One of the key reasons for moving to Denver is its thriving economy. The city is the hub for major companies that are known for providing high-paying jobs.

As per Denver's economic development corporation, a diverse group of 9 job industries contributes to the thriving economy of Denver, that is - Bioscience, Aviation, Aerospace, Beverage Production, IT software, Energy and Financial Services, Healthcare and Wellness, Broadcasting, and Telecommunications. Therefore, the number of jobs in Denver, Colorado, is going to escalate in the coming years and will attract many individuals to move to this place.

5. Education

There are numerous educational institutes in Denver that cater to students of all ages. Whether your kid is starting the journey in college, or you want to put your kid in elementary school, Denver has enough colleges and schools to provide the best education. Some of them are - Littleton public schools, and Cherry Creek School District, to name a few.

Talking about the colleges, you can check Regis University and the University of Colorado Boulder, among several others. So, you need not worry about the academic excellence here.

6. Youthful Energy

Millennials love Denver not just for its job opportunities or thriving economy but also for its cultural amenities and growing food scene. With 60% of residents under the age of 40, most of them are Gen Z and millennials, and 38% of them are in the age group of 20-39.

So, if you are an individual who wants the best of city life away from the hustle of places like Chicago and New York, moving to Denver is the right choice.

7. People Care About Physical Fitness

You must be surprised to know that the residents of Denver care more about their health and the environment than other cities. This is the reason that explains the bike-friendliness of the city.

Even though most people residing here have their cars, they still prefer biking throughout the area. Besides, people living here go by the motto of live and let live. So, you are good to go and live your passions as long as you don't push the same hobbies on others.

8. Outdoor Recreation

The next on the list of things to know before moving to Denver is the outdoor recreation facilities. These facilities are phenomenal here. You can delve into the experiences of backcountry skiing, white-water rafting, and world-renowned ski resorts, and there are countless options.

It doesn't amaze me to say that Denver is one of the top 10 healthiest cities in the US. Some of the must-see spots 2-hour drive from Denver are - Mount Evans, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Idaho Springs. Denver's outdoor lifestyle is both fascinating and accessible, helping newcomers embrace a healthier, more adventurous life.

Important Tips to Remember Before Making Your Move

What to know before moving to Denver? It starts with the careful planning. And further, follow these tips -

• Look for reliable moving companies, especially those experienced in long-distance moves, and consider smart moving and storage solutions if you need extra space. For long-distance moving tips, plan well in advance by creating a checklist, decluttering to reduce moving costs, and researching movers for competitive quotes.
• Denver is located at a high altitude. So, sometimes people take time to adjust to such a height. Stay hydrated, don't indulge in heavy exercise for the first few days, and be mindful of altitude sickness.
• When packing, remember to label boxes clearly and keep essential items accessible for easy unpacking. Knowing how to pack for a move efficiently can make the whole process smoother, saving you time and stress on moving days.
• The cost of living in Denver, Colorado, is higher in comparison to many other parts of the country. Prepare a budget with enough funds for housing, utilities, and other monthly expenses.
• Make yourself familiar with public transportation to beat the hassle of commuting.
• Denver's weather can change rapidly, so be ready for sunny days, snow, and occasional thunderstorms all in the same week.

Is It a Good Idea to Move to Denver, Colorado?

Denver is a metropolitan area including both safe and less safe neighborhood areas. Some areas around the downtown might experience crime cases. But you can always rely on the safe and family-friendly neighborhoods existing in the city. And as far as you are getting the wonderful facilities as mentioned above, it's a good idea to move to Denver.

Final Thoughts

Believe it or not, moving to Denver is a good choice if you have sorted your finances and are looking forward to a seamless life.

That being said, moving comes with its own set of challenges, and if you are afraid to lift the heavy boxes and take them to your new home all by yourself, urBin has got you covered. Let our moving professionals arrange a seamless pickup, smart storage, and timely delivery without breaking anything. It's time to simplify your move with urBin. Contact us for more information.

FAQs

Where is the best place to live in Denver, Colorado?

Some best places to live in Denver, Colorado are Capitol Hill, Country Club, Uptown, Stapleton, Platt Park, Lincoln Park, and Cherry Creek. The decision to choose the area depends on your budget and proximity to amenities.

Do you need AWD to live in Denver?

Not at all. You don't require an all-wheel drive to live in Denver. However, it is beneficial if you have one, especially in the snowy winters of the place or in extreme weather conditions.

What jobs are popular in Denver?

There are diverse job industries in Denver, which marks the popular jobs in the healthcare, finance, and outdoor recreation markets. The recreation industry supports job in hospitality and tourism.

Are people in Denver friendly?

Yes, Denverites are friendly and have a welcoming demeanor. The active outdoor lifestyle and laid-back atmosphere of the city are often the reasons for contributing towards developing camaraderie among residents and newcomers alike.

Is it expensive to live in Denver?

The cost of living in Denver has increased in recent years. The factors responsible for the same are the growing population, inflation, and housing demand. While housing costs are higher, especially if you want a home in a desirable neighborhood, other expenses like transportation and groceries are relatively affordable compared to some other major U.S. cities