Is Denver or Fresno more affordable?
Denver has a median rent of $1,495/month, while Fresno is $1,100/month. Fresno is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Denver, CO vs Fresno, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Denver and Fresno.
2
Denver wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Fresno wins
CO
Denver
vs
CA
Fresno
Overview
706,799
Population
542,107
$78,177✓
Median Income
-39.1%$47,625
Cost of Living
$1,495
Median Rent / mo
-26.4%$1,100✓
$459,100
Median Home Price
-30.3%$320,000✓
23%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
4.40%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.35%
Climate & Weather
56.19°F
Avg High Temp
78°F
51.3°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
272 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
11"
Who should choose
Denver, CO
Denver is a city in Colorado with a population of 706,799.
Read full Denver guide →Who should choose
Fresno, CA
Fresno is a city in California with a population of 542,107.
Read full Fresno guide →Denver vs Fresno — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Denver or Fresno?
Colorado has a 4.40% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Denver wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Denver and Fresno?
Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. Avg high in Denver: 56.19°F. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F
Which city is better for families — Denver or Fresno?
Denver. Fresno. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.