Pros & Cons of Moving to Denver
Denver is a great city with plenty to offer, but it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons before committing to moving there. Here are some of the things you need to consider before packing your bags and heading for the Rockies.
Pros of Moving to Denver
1. It's Near the Mountains
Denver is close to almost 60 mountains, commonly known as fourteeners—mountains higher than 14,000 feet with at least 300 feet of prominence. In Denver, you'll be just moments away from the Rocky Mountains. You'll also be close to Mount Elbert, Mount Evans, and Long Peak housing the Rocky Mountain National Park.
If you're moving to Denver, you may want to consider cheap car shipping, especially if you are not confident your vehicle can navigate the steep elevations. This can keep your engine from sustaining tremendous stress that can take its toll on your car's overall health.
2. It's Downright Gorgeous
Living in Denver means being close to many incredible natural landscapes, no matter the time of year. With over 300 days of sunshine every year, Denver is an excellent place for those who want to be active and enjoy outdoor activities all year long. Not only will you enjoy spectacular sights and sounds of nature, but you'll also benefit from the typical perks that come with living in a modern, urban city. This includes shopping centers, public parks, art museums, and many more. But Denver's beauty is what attracts a lot of people. With stunning peaks and mountain vistas, you're sure to enjoy the spectacular sub-alpine environment.
3. A Thriving Economy
Denver is home to five major industries that play a significant role in the city's economy, including mining, aerospace, manufacturing, food processing, and oil and gas. Denver's economy is growing with world-class companies like Lockheed, Google, and IBM. Due to its strategic location, Denver also serves as the distribution hub of the Front Range and Rocky Mountain regions. If you want to find a job in Denver, chances are there will be plenty of options available. You can expect higher-than-average rates for employment at over 60 percent. However, housing prices tend to go up with employment rates.
4. It's a Great Place to Raise Kids
Denver is one of the top places where many families relocate due to its safe environment, good schools, and robust support system. Most private schools are known for their commitment to providing excellent education and encouraging academic excellence among their students.
5. A Well-rounded Population
Denver is home to diverse people and cultures that appeal to many people. The city has maintained its cultural diversity, ensuring that new residents feel at home and mingle with those who came before them. The people who live in Denver are also very active. Most residents walk to work, take public transportation, or use their bicycles to navigate the city. Additionally, over 100 recreational centers can be found throughout Denver.
Cons of Moving to Denver
1. It's Not Cheap
The cost of living in the Mile High City is pretty high. The cost of living in Denver is 12% higher than the national average. Still, housing expenses account for most of this difference, coming in at 34 percent above average. The typical home costs $450,000, while monthly rent varies from around $1,400 for a one-bedroom apartment to as much as $2,500 in up-and-coming areas of Denver. These rates don't leave much room for splurging on luxuries. At the same time, the average cost of groceries and utilities in Denver is also higher than the national average.
2. It Can Get Cold Very Quickly
Denver experiences four distinct seasons every year. However, the city's location also makes it vulnerable to sudden temperature drops during the winter months. In fact, daily highs can reach 70 degrees Fahrenheit in August, but winter lows can plunge to as much as 15 degrees below zero. You will need a car capable of handling adverse weather conditions, especially if you plan to commute daily even during the harsh Denver winters.
3. Beware of Snow and Sleet
If you have never experienced snowfall before, some things about it might surprise you. During winter storms, the city will be shut down and several residents will stay indoors until the roads are cleared enough for travel. You'll need to keep all necessary supplies in your home whenever snow hits Denver, as chances are you'll get stranded if you don't. This includes food items that can last long without refrigeration—canned goods and energy bars among them.
4. Traffic Is a Nightmare
If you value your time, avoid driving to work during the early morning hours or at night. Otherwise, you may get stuck in traffic for more than 45 minutes—which is an average travel time from the northernmost areas of Denver County to the southernmost ones. Denver hosts at least a couple of events at its stadiums every night of the week, so opt for public transport if you want to avoid road congestion.
5. Infrastructure Issues
Denver is working hard to maintain its infrastructure, but it's been a struggle for the city so far. There have been complaints about inefficient traffic management, making several commuters lose faith in their city government. While not entirely compromised, the water supply may fail to meet demand. For example, the pressure in your neighborhood may go down during the summer months as more water is used for irrigation.
The Bottomline: See If Denver Is for You
Denver is one of the best places to live and work in Colorado, making it one of the most popular cities. Unfortunately, its popularity has also made it overcrowded at times. It's essential to know all the pros and cons of moving to Denver before making a final decision.
