Moving from Nashville to Denver (2026)

Denver has a COL index of 122 vs 112 for Nashville (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 9% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$242 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
112122
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,800$2,000
per month
State tax
None4.4%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,466
per month

Salary needed in Denver to match your Nashville lifestyle

Based on the 9% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in NashvilleEquivalent in Denver
$40K$43,571
$50K$54,464
$60K$65,357
$75K$81,696
$80K$87,143
$100K$108,929
$120K$130,714
$150K$163,393

Monthly budget at $75K — Nashville vs Denver

ExpenseNashvilleDenver
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,466
1BR rent$1,800$2,000
Groceries$365$388
Transport$70$114
Utilities$170$140
Internet$60$65
Left after essentials$2,276$1,759

Frequently asked questions

Is Denver cheaper than Nashville?

No. Denver has a cost of living index of 122 vs 112 for Nashville (100 = US average). That's about 9% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Nashville to Denver?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Denver run about $242/month more than Nashville. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Nashville, you'd need roughly $81,696/year in Denver. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only