affordwhere
DestinationsBlogAboutData Sources
affordwhere

Austin vs Denver: Cost of Living Compared

A side-by-side comparison of rent, daily expenses, and quality-of-life factors in Austin (U.S.A.) and Denver (U.S.A.). Data sourced from official government statistics, updated 2026.

CategoryAustinDenver
CountryU.S.A.U.S.A.
CurrencyUSD ($)USD ($)
1BR Rent Range$1,500 - $2,300Cheaper$1,600 - $2,500
2BR Rent Range$1,900 - $2,900Cheaper$2,000 - $3,200
Groceries / mo$475Cheaper$525
Transport Pass / mo$41Cheaper$114
Dining Out / mo$285Cheaper$315
English Level5/5 (Excellent)5/5 (Excellent)
Neighborhoods Tracked99
Healthcare SystemPrivate (employer-based)Private (employer-based)

Verdict

Overall, Austin tends to be more affordable when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, the two cities use the same currency, so exchange rates and local salary levels also play a significant role. Use our calculator to see what your specific salary means in each city.

Explore Austin

9 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in U.S.A.

View Austin details

Explore Denver

9 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in U.S.A.

View Denver details

Calculate your salary in both cities

Enter your gross salary to see net pay, rent affordability, and savings potential in Austin and Denver.

Open the comparison calculator

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Austin or Denver cheaper to live in?

Based on our data, Austin is generally cheaper to live in when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, costs vary significantly by neighborhood and lifestyle.

What is rent like in Austin vs Denver?

In Austin, 1-bedroom rents range from $1,500 to $2,300 per month across 9 neighborhoods. In Denver, 1-bedroom rents range from $1,600 to $2,500 per month across 9 neighborhoods.

How do transport costs compare in Austin vs Denver?

A monthly public transport pass costs $41 in Austin and $114 in Denver. Both cities have well-developed public transit systems.

Which city is better for expats, Austin or Denver?

Austin has an English proficiency rating of 5/5 (Excellent) and Denver rates 5/5 (Excellent). Austin uses Private (employer-based) healthcare, while Denver uses Private (employer-based). Both factors are important for expats considering a move.

affordwhere

Know what your salary buys before you move. Take-home pay, neighborhoods, and savings across 175+ cities in 33 countries.

Updated Mar 2026

Explore

  • Calculator
  • Blog
  • Data sources
  • Benchmarks

Countries

AustraliaAustriaBelgiumCanadaCyprusCzechiaDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyHong KongIndiaIndonesiaIrelandItalyJapanMalaysiaMexicoNetherlandsNew ZealandNorwayPolandPortugalSingaporeSpainSwedenSwitzerlandTaiwanThailandUAEU.K.U.S.A.Vietnam

Company

  • About
  • Testimonials
  • FAQ

Legal

  • Privacy
  • Terms

© 2026 AffordWhere. Estimates only, not financial advice.

2026 tax rules • Mar 2026 rent data