Denver vs Orlando: cost of living compared
Orlando is 18% cheaper than Denver overall. Orlando (FL) 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
Moving between Denver and Orlando presents a substantial difference in the overall cost of living. Orlando is noticeably more affordable across the board, with the most significant savings found in housing expenses. While some daily costs are roughly similar, the cumulative effect of higher prices in Denver makes it a considerably more expensive place to reside overall, primarily driven by the housing market.
Housing
Housing costs are a major differentiator. Both median home prices and typical rental rates are considerably higher in Denver. In Orlando, while initial purchase prices are lower, buyers should factor in potentially higher homeowners insurance premiums, the possibility of flood insurance, and common community fees like HOAs or CDDs. Property taxes in Florida also reset to market value upon sale, impacting new owners.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses show a mixed picture. Orlando benefits from no state income tax, which can lead to significant savings for many households. Transportation costs, including average commute times, are quite comparable between the two metros. However, food, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods and services are generally more expensive in Denver, while utilities are somewhat higher in Orlando.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move involves distinct lifestyle changes. Denver offers a mountain climate with four distinct seasons, while Orlando provides a subtropical environment with warm, humid summers and mild winters. Both cities have extensive road networks, but Orlando's flatter terrain and a more car-dependent culture contrast with Denver's more established public transit options. Orlando also experiences hurricane season during summer and fall.
Bottom line
For those weighing a move, the financial implications are clear: Orlando generally offers a more budget-friendly environment, largely due to its considerably lower housing costs and the absence of a state income tax. While some specific expenses like utilities or certain insurance types might be higher in Florida, the overall financial burden is typically lighter in Orlando compared to Denver, making it a strong consideration for cost-conscious movers.
| Measure | Denver, CO | Orlando, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 128 | 105 |
| Housing index | 146 | 104 |
| Transportation index | 104 | 104 |
| Food index | 105 | 98 |
| Healthcare index | 108 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 108 |
| Misc index | 108 | 92 |
| Median home price | $548,000 | $358,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,950/mo | $1,650/mo |
| Average commute | 28 min | 29 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Orlando home with the True Cost Calculator.