Moving From San Diego to Denver: Mountain State Living Guide
Mar 25, 2025
If you’re a San Diegan dreaming of a fresh start, you’re not alone. More and more Californians are making the move from sunny beaches to the mile-high skyline of Denver, Colorado. With its stunning mountain views, vibrant job market, and significantly lower cost of living, Denver offers an enticing alternative to the coastal lifestyle of San Diego.
Sure, you might miss the beach, but you’ll trade it for epic ski slopes, scenic hikes, and a thriving, outdoorsy culture. Plus, with 300 days of sunshine annually, you’re still getting plenty of Vitamin D!
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making the transition smoothly, from cost comparisons and job opportunities to moving logistics and lifestyle changes.
Cost of Living: San Diego vs. Denver
| Factor | San Diego, CA | Denver, CO |
| Median Home Price | $790,000 – $1M | $540,000 – $630,000 |
| State Income Tax | 1% – 13.3% | 4.63% |
| Sales Tax | 7.75% | 8.81% |
| Annual Snowfall | Rare | ~60 inches |
| Public Transport | Trolley, buses, limited | RTD light rail, buses |
| Outdoor Activities | Beaches, hiking | Skiing, hiking, biking |
| Cost of Living | High | Lower than San Diego |
Housing Costs: The Biggest Savings
One of the most compelling reasons to move to Denver is the difference in housing costs. In San Diego, the median home price hovers between $790,000 and $1 million, whereas in Denver, homes average around $540,000 to $630,000—a savings of up to 45%.
Taxes and Expenses
- State Income Tax: California has a progressive tax system that can go as high as 13.3%, while Colorado has a flat tax rate of 4.63%.
- Sales Tax: Denver’s sales tax is slightly higher at 8.81% compared to San Diego’s 7.75%.
- Healthcare: Medical costs in Denver are about 5% lower than in San Diego.
Overall Impact
For a family of four, the monthly cost of living in Denver ($4,672) is nearly $3,000 less than in San Diego ($7,719). That’s a huge financial advantage for those looking to save money or enjoy a higher standard of living.
The Moving Process: Logistics and Planning
Full-Service Movers
Hiring professional movers to move from San Diego to Denver can ease the transition, handling packing, loading, transportation, and unloading. This option is ideal for those with busy schedules or who prefer a hands-off approach to moving.
Benefits of Professional Movers:
- Expert handling: Expert residential movers are trained to handle fragile, heavy, and valuable items safely.
- Time-saving: Packing and loading can take days if done alone, whereas movers streamline the process efficiently.
- Insurance and protection: Many moving companies offer insurance coverage for your belongings, providing peace of mind.
- Specialized equipment: Movers come equipped with dollies, ramps, and padding to prevent damage to your furniture and home.
- Weather preparedness: Navigating mountain passes in winter can be challenging, but experienced movers know how to handle adverse weather conditions.
Choosing the Right Option
When selecting a moving company for your relocation, consider the following factors:
- Licensing and certification: Make sure the company is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and has a valid Department of Transportation (DOT) number.
- Customer reviews: Check reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to verify reliability.
- Transparent pricing: Get multiple quotes and inquire about hidden fees, such as long carry charges, stairs, or bulky item handling.
- Storage options: If you need temporary storage before settling into your new home, select a company that offers secure storage solutions.
- Service customization: Some movers provide full-service options, while others offer labor-only services. Choose the level of assistance that best suits your needs.
Job Market: Opportunities in Denver
Denver has a robust and diverse job market. The city has become a major hub for a variety of industries, offering excellent career prospects across multiple fields.
Key Industries:
- Technology: Denver has a booming tech scene, with major players like Google, IBM, and Oracle maintaining offices in the area. The city is also home to a thriving startup ecosystem, attracting entrepreneurs and investors alike.
- Healthcare and biotech: With institutions like the University of Colorado Health and Denver Health, the healthcare and biotech sectors continue to expand. Research facilities and medical centers in the area provide opportunities for professionals in medicine, pharmaceuticals, and medical technology.
- Aerospace and defense: Companies such as Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace have a strong presence in Denver, making it a prime location for engineers, scientists, and defense industry professionals.
- Renewable energy: As a leader in sustainable energy initiatives, Denver is home to a growing number of solar and wind energy companies, including Vestas Wind Systems and Namasté Solar.
- Finance and business services: Denver has become a financial hub with many investment firms, insurance companies, and consulting agencies setting up operations in the city. The lower cost of doing business compared to California makes it attractive for corporate expansion.
- Tourism and Hospitality: With its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, Denver benefits from a thriving tourism industry, creating numerous jobs in hospitality, food services, and outdoor recreation.
Job Market Trends and Salaries
In 2022, Denver’s median household income was $85,853, while San Diego’s was $98,657, meaning San Diego’s median household income was approximately $12,804 higher. However, with a lower cost of living, your earnings stretch further. The city’s unemployment rate remains lower than the national average, and job growth is projected to continue steadily. Additionally, Denver has a strong gig economy, with opportunities for freelancers in tech, creative industries, and remote work roles.
Job Search Tips for Newcomers:
- Start networking before you move by joining Denver-based LinkedIn groups and industry-specific meetups.
- Attend job fairs and professional events such as Denver Startup Week to connect with potential employers.
- Consider working with a local recruiter or staffing agency to navigate the job market efficiently.
- Research remote and hybrid work options, as many Denver companies now offer flexible work environments.
- Whether you’re seeking career advancement, better wages, or a fresh start in a growing industry, Denver offers plenty of professional opportunities to explore.
Finding the Right Neighborhood
Best Areas for Singles
- Capitol Hill: Affordable and walkable with great nightlife
- LoDo (Lower Downtown): High-energy area with restaurants and bars
- Highland (LoHi): Trendy with Victorian-era charm and hip eateries
Best Areas for Families
- Washington Park: Great schools and green spaces
- Park Hill: Family-friendly with a strong community fee
- Berkeley: Small-town vibe with easy city access
Considerations When Choosing a Neighborhood
- Commute: Public transportation is available but not as extensive as in San Diego
- Safety: Check crime rates before settling in
- Amenities: Proximity to parks, schools, and entertainment matters
Weather and Climate Adjustments
What to Expect
- Winter: Snowy and cold, averaging 60 inches of snowfall annually, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowstorms can cause temporary travel disruptions, but Denver’s infrastructure is well-equipped for winter weather.
- Spring: A mix of sunshine and occasional late snowfalls, transitioning into milder temperatures. Spring storms can bring rapid weather changes, sometimes shifting from snow to sunshine in a single day.
- Summer: Warm and dry with highs around 80°F, but occasional heat waves can push temperatures into the 90s. Thunderstorms are common in the afternoons, bringing brief but intense bursts of rain and lightning.
- Fall: Crisp and colorful, with foliage turning brilliant shades of yellow and red. Temperatures gradually cool, making it one of the most pleasant seasons for outdoor activities.
- Altitude Adjustment: Denver is 5,280 feet above sea level, so it may take time to acclimate. Newcomers may experience mild altitude sickness, including headaches and fatigue. Staying hydrated, avoiding excessive alcohol, and allowing time to adjust are key to easing into the elevation change.
Lifestyle and Culture Differences
Outdoor Recreation
- Skiing and snowboarding: World-class resorts like Breckenridge and Vail are 1-2 hours away.
- Hiking and biking: Hundreds of miles of trails in the Rockies.
- Water activities: Lakes and rivers offer kayaking and paddleboarding.
Social and Cultural Scene
- Craft beer heaven: Over 200 breweries in the metro area.
- Food scene: Farm-to-table dining and local food markets.
- Music and arts: Red Rocks Amphitheater, Denver Art Museum, and more.
Transportation in Denver
While Denver has public transportation (RTD buses and light rail), it’s a more car-dependent city than San Diego. Winter driving can be tricky, so investing in snow tires or AWD is a good idea. Bike lanes are plentiful, and rideshares are widely available.
Final Checklist for Your Move
- Book a moving company or rental truck 8-12 weeks in advance.
- Declutter and donate items you don’t need.
- Notify USPS, banks, and utilities of your address change.
- Register your car and get a CO driver’s license within 90 days.
- Explore Denver and settle in!
Useful Resources
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): Verify moving company credentials.
- Colorado DMV: Register your vehicle and obtain a driver’s license.
- Denver Public Transit (RTD): Check public transportation options.
- Denver Newcomer Guide: Find local events and resources for settling in.
- Nextdoor App: Connect with your new neighborhood community.
- Denver Weather and Road Conditions: Stay updated on road closures and weather forecasts.
Move From San Diego to Denver with Atlas Allied
Moving from San Diego to Denver is a big change, but it comes with countless benefits—a lower cost of living, stunning scenery, a booming job market, and endless outdoor adventures. While you might miss the ocean, you’ll gain an entirely new appreciation for mountain life.
And, Atlas Allied is here to make your move to Denver seamless. With expert handling, secure storage options, and stress-free logistics, we take the hassle out of long-distance moves. Contact us today for a free quote and experience a smooth, efficient relocation!