Denver vs Austin: Cost of Living Comparison
Denver and Austin are both magnets for tech workers and outdoor enthusiasts relocating from the coasts. Denver sits at 5,280 feet with world-class skiing and 300 days of sunshine, while Austin offers a subtropical climate, spring-fed swimming holes, and the legendary South by Southwest festival. Texas has no state income tax, giving Austin a tax edge over Colorado's 4.4% flat rate, but Denver's more mature public transit system and walkable neighborhoods can offset some costs. Both cities have seen explosive housing appreciation, making a detailed cost comparison essential before choosing between the Rockies and the Hill Country.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Denver | Austin | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Index | 127 | 123 | Austin |
| Housing | 168 | 151 | Austin |
| Groceries | 104 | 97 | Austin |
| Transportation | 107 | 103 | Austin |
| Utilities | 97 | 101 | Denver |
Index values are estimates for general comparison purposes relative to a national average of 100. Lower is cheaper. Actual costs vary by neighborhood, household size, and lifestyle.
Visual Cost Comparison
Overall Index
Housing
Groceries
Transportation
Utilities
Green bars indicate the more affordable city in each category. National average = 100.
Salary Equivalent: Denver vs Austin
To maintain the same standard of living, here's what salaries earned in Denver are worth in Austin - and vice versa.
| Salary in Denver | Equivalent in Austin | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $48,425 | $-1,575 |
| $75,000 | $72,638 | $-2,362 |
| $100,000 | $96,850 | $-3,150 |
| $150,000 | $145,276 | $-4,724 |
Austin is cheaper, so you need less income to maintain your standard of living. A negative difference means you keep more purchasing power.
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Housing (Austin wins): Housing is 11% more expensive in Denver than Austin. Denver has a housing index of 168 vs 151. This is typically the largest expense category and drives most of the overall cost difference.
Groceries (Austin wins): Grocery costs in Denver (index 104) are higher than Austin (index 97). Denver is above the national average while Austin is below.
Transportation (Austin wins): Transportation costs index 107 in Denver vs 103 in Austin. This includes gas prices, car insurance, public transit fares, and vehicle maintenance. The difference is modest and unlikely to significantly impact your budget.
Utilities (Denver wins): Utilities cost less in Denver (index 97) than Austin (index 101). This covers electricity, natural gas, water, sewage, internet, and phone service. Climate plays a significant role - cities with extreme temperatures tend to have higher utility costs.
Get Free Moving Quotes
Compare prices from up to 3 local movers. No obligation, no spam.
Want to Estimate Costs Before Getting Quotes?
Use our free calculator to build a detailed moving budget - movers, truck rental, flights, deposits, and all the hidden costs.
Open Free Moving Cost Calculator →Related Comparisons
FAQ - Denver vs Austin Cost of Living
Is Denver or Austin more expensive to live in?
Denver is more expensive overall, with a cost of living index of 127 compared to 123 (national average = 100). The biggest difference is in housing, where Denver costs 17 index points more.
How much more expensive is housing in Denver vs Austin?
Housing in Denver has an index of 168 compared to 151 in Austin. That's 11% more expensive. Housing is typically the largest factor in cost of living differences between cities.
What is a $100,000 salary in Denver worth in Austin?
A $100,000 salary in Denver is equivalent to approximately $96,850 in Austin. This means you would need to earn less in Austin to maintain the same standard of living.
Are groceries cheaper in Denver or Austin?
Groceries are cheaper in Austin, with an index of 97 compared to 104 in Denver. The national average is 100, so one city is above and one is below the national average.
Should I move from Denver to Austin to save money?
Moving from Denver to Austin could save you money, as Austin's overall cost of living index is 4 points lower. However, consider your specific situation - salary differences between markets, state income taxes, and lifestyle preferences all factor in. Use our free calculator to estimate total relocation costs.