Denver vs Los Angeles

Cost of Living Comparison (2026)

Overall Verdict

Denver is 20% cheaper than Los Angeles overall. Denver is expensive while Los Angeles is very expensive.

$1,253/mo
Denver 1BR Rent
$1,537/mo
Los Angeles 1BR Rent

Cost Comparison

CategoryDenverLos AngelesWinner
1BR Rent (City Center)$1,253/mo$1,537/moDenver
3BR Rent (City Center)$2,228/mo$3,028/moDenver
Meal (Inexpensive)$11$17Denver
Meal for 2 (Mid-Range)$50$60Denver
Monthly Groceries$337$390Denver
Monthly Transport$80$90Denver
Monthly Utilities$140$163Denver
Internet$41/mo$49/moDenver
Coffee$3$4Denver
Beer (Domestic)$4$6Denver
Gym Membership$32/mo$50/moDenver

Quality of Life Comparison

Overall Quality
79
Denver
78
Los Angeles
Safety
55
Denver
48
Los Angeles
Healthcare
78
Denver
76
Los Angeles
Education
81
Denver
77
Los Angeles
Internet Speed
137
Denver
152
Los Angeles
Nightlife
74
Denver
77
Los Angeles

Which City Is Better For...

Budget LivingDenver
SafetyDenver
HealthcareDenver
NightlifeLos Angeles
FamiliesLos Angeles
Remote WorkLos Angeles

Related Comparisons