May
05

Is the Mile High City for You? A Denver Moving Guide

Is the Mile High City for you? A moving guide to Denver is essential for those considering relocating to this bustling city. Tucked away beneath the majestic Rockies, Denver offers a distinct mix of urban energy and picturesque scenery. In this guide, we will cover important considerations for those looking to relocate to Denver.

Firstly, understanding Denver's climate is crucial in determining whether it suits your lifestyle preferences. Secondly, exploring diverse neighborhoods within the downtown area and beyond will help you find an ideal place to call home. Thirdly, considering cost of living can be a significant factor when comparing big cities.

This moving guide to Denver aims to provide valuable insights on various aspects such as its must-visit spots like Red Rocks Park or attractions including museums and zoos. Ultimately, our goal is not only assisting with your big move but also helping you make informed decisions about whether the Mile High City truly aligns with your aspirations and needs.

1. Understand Denver's Climate

If you're considering a move to the Mile High City, it's essential to familiarize yourself with Denver's climate. The city is known for its 300 days of sunshine per year, but it also experiences all four seasons and can have unpredictable weather patterns.

Average Temperatures

In general, Denver has mild temperatures throughout the year. Summers are warm with average highs in the mid-80s (°F), while winters are cold but manageable with average lows in the 20s (°F). Spring and fall offer pleasant transitional periods where temperatures range from the 50s to 70s (°F).

Snowfall and Precipitation

Denver receives an average annual snowfall of around 60 inches, which is less than many people expect given its proximity to the Rocky Mountains. Most snow falls between October and April, though occasional flurries may occur outside this timeframe. Rainfall is relatively low compared to other major cities, averaging about 15 inches per year.

Sunshine Hours

•  Summer: During summer months, residents enjoy long days filled with sunlight - perfect for outdoor activities like hiking or biking on one of Denver's numerous trails.
•  Fall/Winter: As daylight hours decrease during fall and winter months, be prepared for shorter days that require extra planning when scheduling outdoor activities.

Tips for Adapting to Denver's Climate:

1. Invest in a quality winter wardrobe, including warm clothing and snow boots.
2. Stay hydrated at Denver's high altitude (5,280 feet above sea level).
3. Be prepared for rapid weather changes by always having an extra layer of clothing on hand.

In summary, understanding Denver's climate is crucial when deciding if the Mile High City is right for you. With its sunny days, mild temperatures, and manageable snowfall amounts, many people find that adapting to the local weather is relatively easy. Before committing, consider how your lifestyle and preferences fit with Denver's climate.

Denver's climate can be changeable, varying from arid summers to icy winters, so it is essential to comprehend the atmospheric conditions prior to relocating. Exploring Denver's neighborhoods is a great way to get an idea of what life in this vibrant city would look like for you.

Explore Denver's Neighborhoods

Denver is a diverse city with various neighborhoods, each offering its unique charm and lifestyle. When considering a big move to the Mile High City, it's essential to explore these neighborhoods to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Downtown Denver

Downtown Denver is perfect for those who love urban living. This area offers numerous restaurants, bars, shopping centers, and entertainment venues within walking distance. For those who are employed in the city centre or prefer a vibrant social life, downtown Denver may be an excellent choice.

Cherry Creek

If upscale living appeals to you, consider Cherry Creek. Known for its luxury homes and high-end retail establishments like Cherry Creek Shopping Center and Cherry Creek North district, this neighborhood exudes elegance while still providing access to outdoor activities at nearby parks such as Washington Park.

The Highlands

A trendy spot in Denver is The Highlands, which boasts a mix of historic architecture alongside modern developments. With popular eateries like Root Down or Linger along with boutique shops lining Tennyson Street Art District's streetscape, there's always something happening here.

Park Hill & Stapleton (Central Park)

•  Park Hill: A family-friendly neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets and beautiful parks. Learn more about Park Hill on their official website: Park Hill Community.
•  Stapleton (Central Park): A newer development in Denver, this area offers modern homes and amenities like parks, pools, and shopping centers. Visit the official website for more information: Central Park Denver.

Taking time to explore these neighborhoods will help you find the perfect fit when moving to Denver. Remember that finding a suitable location is essential not only for your daily commute but also for enjoying all that this bustling city has to offer.

Nearby cities that can be considered part of the Mile High City

•  Boulder
•  Englewood
•  Greenwood Village
•  Littleton
•  Broomfield
•  Centennial
•  Aurora
•  Golden

Must-Visit Spots in Denver

Denver is not only known for its diverse neighborhoods but also for its must-visit spots. Here are some of the top attractions in the Denver metro area:

Denver International Airport

As one of the largest airports in the world, Denver International Airport is a gateway to the city and the Rocky Mountains. With over 200 destinations worldwide, it's easy to get to Denver from anywhere in the world.

Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens is a must-visit spot for nature lovers. With over 24 acres of gardens, it's a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

Denver Museum

The Denver Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region. With exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space exploration, there's something for everyone here.

Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from around the world. With exhibits like Predator Ridge and Tropical Discovery, it's a fun and educational experience for all ages.

City Park

City Park is a 330-acre park in the heart of Denver. With attractions like the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, and the City Park Golf Course, it's a great place to spend a day outdoors.

Red Rocks Park

Red Rocks Park is a must-visit spot for music lovers. With its natural amphitheater and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, it's a unique and unforgettable concert venue.

Rocky Mountains National Park

The Rocky Mountains National Park is just a short drive from Denver and offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. With over 350 miles of hiking trails, it's a great place to explore the great outdoors.

Whether you're a fan of big cities or the great outdoors, Denver has something for everyone. Use this moving guide to explore the city's diverse neighborhoods and must-visit spots before making your big move to the Mile High City.

Investigating Denver's districts is an excellent method to gain insight into the city and its atmosphere. Before committing to a move, it's wise to research the cost of living in Denver so you can make an informed decision.

3. Consider Cost of Living

Comprehending the cost of life in Denver is critical for making sure you can manage a pleasant way of life while living in the Mile High City. Denver's thriving economy and expanding population have caused living costs to rise in recent years.

Average Housing Costs

The average home value in Denver is currently around $542,000, with rent prices averaging at about $1,800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Keep these figures in mind when budgeting for your big move and determining if purchasing or renting property aligns with your financial goals.

Average house/apartment size is between 950 to 1700 square feet. If you are moving from a big house you will need storage units in Denver to store everything that will not fit initially. Do not keep the unit for long though, decide what to do with your extra possessions before self storage becomes too expensive.

Transportation Expenses

Factoring in public transportation costs into your budget should be taken into account when planning for a move to Denver. A regular adult fare on the RTD bus and rail system costs $3 per ride or $114 for a monthly pass.

Groceries and Dining Out

•  The average grocery bill: According to Numbeo data from September 2023, groceries are approximately 2% higher than the national average.
•  Dining out: Expect to pay between $15-$20 per person at mid-range restaurants.

Taxes and Utilities

In addition to housing costs and daily expenses like food and transportation, don't forget about taxes. Colorado has relatively low income tax rates (between 0-8%), but property taxes can be higher in certain areas. The City of Denver approximates the average monthly utility payment to be around $150.

Taking all these factors into account will help you determine if relocating to Denver is a financially viable option for you and your family. Remember to consider both short-term expenses like moving costs and long-term costs such as housing, transportation, and lifestyle choices when making your decision.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this moving guide to Denver has highlighted some important factors to consider before making the move. Understanding Denver's climate, exploring its neighborhoods, and considering the cost of living are all crucial steps in determining if the Mile High City is right for you.

By: Lee Preson
Lee is the Director of Marketing and Promotion for EZstorit.com. When she is not working with our storage facilities partners, she is writing about topics that affect our daily lives.