Is Denver or San Jose more affordable?
Denver has a median rent of $1,495/month, while San Jose is $2,500/month. Denver is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Denver, CO vs San Jose, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Denver and San Jose.
3
Denver wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Jose wins
CO
Denver
vs
CA
San Jose
Overview
706,799
Population
1,013,240
$78,177
Median Income
+50.3%$117,474✓
Cost of Living
$1,495✓
Median Rent / mo
+67.2%$2,500
$459,100✓
Median Home Price
+139.6%$1,100,000
23%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
4.40%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.38%
Climate & Weather
56.19°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
51.3°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
257 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
15"
Who should choose
Denver, CO
Denver is a city in Colorado with a population of 706,799.
Read full Denver guide →Who should choose
San Jose, CA
San Jose is a city in California with a population of 1,013,240.
Read full San Jose guide →Denver vs San Jose — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Denver or San Jose?
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 San Jose?
San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in Denver: 56.19°F. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Denver or San Jose?
Denver. San Jose. 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.