Moving from El Paso to Denver (2026)

Denver has a COL index of 122 vs 80 for El Paso (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 53% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$1,225 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
80 โ†’ 122
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,050 โ†’ $2,000
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 4.4%
income tax
COL difference
80 โ†’ 122
53% more expensive

Salary needed in Denver to match your El Paso lifestyle

Based on the 53% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in El PasoEquivalent in Denver
$40K$61,000
$50K$76,250
$60K$91,500
$75K$114,375
$80K$122,000
$100K$152,500
$120K$183,000
$150K$228,750

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$1,036/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” El Paso vs Denver

ExpenseEl PasoDenver
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,466
1BR rent$1,050$2,000
Groceries$346$388
Transport$40$114
Utilities$175$140
Internet$60$65
Left after essentials$3,070$1,759

Frequently asked questions

Is Denver cheaper than El Paso?

No. Denver has a cost of living index of 122 vs 80 for El Paso (100 = US average). That's about 53% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from El Paso to Denver?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Denver run about $1,225/month more than El Paso. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Denver to match my El Paso lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in El Paso, you'd need roughly $114,375/year in Denver. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only