Denver vs Las Vegas: cost of living compared
Las Vegas is 20% cheaper than Denver overall. Las Vegas (NV) has no state income tax; CO tops out around 4.4%.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Comparing Denver and Las Vegas reveals a substantial difference in overall cost of living. Denver is considerably more expensive across most categories, with housing being the primary driver of this disparity. Las Vegas offers a more budget-friendly environment, particularly when considering the total household expenditure. While some costs are similar, the cumulative effect makes Denver a more costly place to reside.
Housing
Housing costs present a significant contrast between these two metros. Both buying and renting are noticeably more expensive in Denver. Median home prices are substantially higher there, and a typical one-bedroom rental commands a much larger monthly payment. Las Vegas generally offers more attainable housing options, and the housing stock often includes single-family homes with smaller lots, while Denver features a mix of older and newer construction, sometimes with higher property taxes and insurance costs.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses also vary. Las Vegas residents benefit from no state income tax, unlike Denver where a state income tax applies. Transportation costs are slightly higher in Denver, though average commute times are quite similar. Food and healthcare expenses are also a bit higher in Denver. However, utilities are a notable exception, being considerably more expensive in Las Vegas, which can impact monthly budgeting for essential services.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, the lifestyle experience differs. Denver offers a mountain climate with distinct seasons, including snowy winters, and a focus on outdoor activities. Getting around often involves driving, though public transit exists. Las Vegas has a desert climate with hot summers and milder winters, known for its entertainment and resort atmosphere. Both metros experience traffic, but the overall pace and density can feel different, with Las Vegas having a more spread-out character in many areas.
Bottom line
For those weighing a move, the financial implications are clear: a household budget will stretch further in Las Vegas than in Denver. The absence of state income tax and significantly lower housing costs in Las Vegas offer substantial savings. While utilities are higher there, the overall economic advantage rests with Las Vegas, making it a more affordable choice for many considering a change of scenery.
| Measure | Denver, CO | Las Vegas, NV |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 128 | 102 |
| Housing index | 146 | 107 |
| Transportation index | 104 | 94 |
| Food index | 105 | 98 |
| Healthcare index | 108 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 118 |
| Misc index | 108 | 92 |
| Median home price | $548,000 | $398,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,950/mo | $1,450/mo |
| Average commute | 28 min | 26 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Las Vegas home with the True Cost Calculator.