Is Denver or Portland more affordable?
Denver has a median rent of $1,495/month, while Portland is $1,406/month. Portland is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Denver, CO vs Portland, OR
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Denver and Portland.
2
Denver wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Portland wins
CO
Denver
vs
OR
Portland
Overview
706,799
Population
647,176
$78,177
Median Income
+0.4%$78,476✓
Cost of Living
$1,495
Median Rent / mo
-6.0%$1,406✓
$459,100✓
Median Home Price
+0.8%$462,800
23%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
4.40%✓
State Income Tax
9.90%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
56.19°F
Avg High Temp
50.49°F
51.3°F
Avg Low Temp
46.76°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Denver, CO
Denver is a city in Colorado with a population of 706,799.
Read full Denver guide →Who should choose
Portland, OR
Portland is a city in Oregon with a population of 647,176.
Read full Portland guide →Denver vs Portland — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Denver or Portland?
Colorado has a 4.40% state income tax. Oregon has a 9.90% state income tax. Denver wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Denver and Portland?
Avg high in Denver: 56.19°F. Avg high in Portland: 50.49°F
Which city is better for families — Denver or Portland?
Denver. Portland. 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.