Denver has grown dramatically over the past decade, driven by the outdoor recreation lifestyle, a booming tech scene, and cannabis legalization drawing residents from across the country. Rents have risen steadily, though a recent construction surge has eased pressure slightly.
Citywide Averages
- Studio: $1,300–$1,700/mo
- 1-Bedroom: $1,600–$2,300/mo
- 2-Bedroom: $2,100–$3,000/mo
Rent by Neighborhood
- LoDo / Union Station: $2,000–$3,000/mo (1BR) — walkable, transit hub, luxury buildings
- RiNo (River North): $1,800–$2,600/mo (1BR) — Denver's arts and brewery district; rapidly gentrifying
- Capitol Hill: $1,400–$2,000/mo (1BR) — bohemian character, older buildings, best walkability
- Washington Park: $1,700–$2,400/mo (1BR) — families and young professionals; great park access
- Aurora: $1,300–$1,800/mo (1BR) — diverse eastern suburb, airport proximity
- Lakewood / Englewood: $1,400–$1,900/mo (1BR) — light rail access to downtown, suburban feel
The Denver Outdoor Premium
Living in Denver means easy access to world-class skiing, hiking, and cycling — and landlords know it. That lifestyle premium is baked into rents, especially in neighborhoods close to the mountains like Edgewater and Sloan's Lake. If you can work remotely, consider cities like Fort Collins or Boulder which offer similar mountain access at comparable or lower rents.
Denver Renter Tips
- Colorado has no statewide rent control.
- The RTD light rail system is excellent — living near a station can eliminate the need for a car.
- Altitude adjustment is real; budget a few weeks for acclimation if moving from sea level.
- Dog-friendly units command a premium in Denver — pet deposits are common.
Browse Denver rentals on EMLAKIE — all listed directly by landlords.