Moving from New York City to Denver - Benefits, Cost & How To

If you currently live in NYC but are thinking about making the move to Denver, you might be wondering how life could change. Well, as you’re about to find out, the difference between these two cities is significant. NYC is the country’s largest metropolis, with a massive population of over 8.4 million (in the city alone). Denver, on the other hand, is much smaller at just 711,000 people, which could make it a culture shock for long-time New Yorkers. 

Even so, you won’t be alone if you decide to move to Denver. The city is currently one of the fastest-growing in the country, adding more than 8,000 people in 2023, according to the most recent statistics. So why not join the party? 

Benefits of moving from NYC to Denver

By road, the distance from New York to Denver is around 1,776 miles, which takes nearly 26 hours of solid driving. NYC is a northeastern city with conventional seasons and a unique business-focused culture, while Denver has more of a frontier town feel. The Colorado city also offers incredible benefits for those seeking a better quality of life, such as a lower cost of living, a thriving job market, and a warmer climate throughout the year on average. 

More Space

NYC wants to put you in a box-like apartment and be happy. Meanwhile, Denver gives you way more space. The city has gigantic environs, allowing the urban area to sprawl in all directions, offering stunning suburbs, plenty of room for public transport, and bigger yards. You don’t have hundreds of skyscrapers crammed together on a small island as you do in NYC, encouraging a slower pace of life. 

Better Climate

New York’s climate is either too hot or cold. However, Denver has a more midwestern feel. The city gets a lot of snow in the winter, but you can still enjoy outdoor activities year-round. It also has pleasant summers with a drier heat than New York in July and August.

Lower Living Costs

Living costs in Denver are also significantly cheaper than in NYC. According to Numbeo’s cost of living index, Denver’s score is just 82.8 compared to New York’s benchmark 100, making it almost 20% cheaper to rent and buy groceries. 

Also, Denver is in Colorado, which has a lower state income tax on average, offering a flat rate of 4.4%. That means that you could have more money if you are paying in the upper range of NYC’s tax rates, which can go as high as 10.9 %. 

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Denver also has a family-friendly atmosphere. Figures indicate that the cost of living for a family of four is around $4,810 per month, less than NYC. And, unlike Manhattan, the city offers plenty of spacious parks, playgrounds, and attractions. 

Thriving Job Market

Another benefit of moving to Denver is its thriving job market. The city attracts top companies from diverse industries, including technology, transportation, finance, and healthcare businesses. Salaries aren’t as high as in New York, but the lower cost of living often compensates for any differences. 

Exceptional Schools

Finally, Denver is home to some exceptional schools. Top educational establishments include D'Evelyn Junior/Senior High School, Denver School of the Arts, and Stargate Charter School, which rank one, two, and three in the area, respectively. Kids here can obtain a stellar education at all levels. 

How to move from NYC to Denver

Moving from NYC to Denver requires preparation and working with a professional removal company. Transporting all your possessions is a logistical challenge. Here’s our recommended step-by-step process for quick reference: 

Step 1: Decide Why You Want To Move

Leaving the Big Apple for Denver isn’t a decision you should take lightly. Write down your reasons for moving and why it is worth it. You want to be sure you are making the right decision.

Step 2: Research Denver

Explore Denver and decide if it is a city you could live in. Find out whether it offers the work, cultural amenities, and climate you require to thrive. 

Step 3: Set Out Your Budget And Timeline

Decide how much you want to spend on the move and when you want to complete it. Begin decluttering your existing accommodation, removing anything you don’t want to take with you. 

Step 4: Hire A Professional Mover

Ensure you work with professionals who can protect your belongings en route. Compare estimates from different carriers to find the best deals.

Step 5: Secure New Accommodation

Visit Denver and explore desirable neighborhoods where you could live. Sign a rental contract or purchase a property. 

Step 6: Move In And Transfer Utilities

Get your mover to transport you and your possessions from NYC to your new home in Denver. Contact utility companies and tell them about your change of address. Ensure you change the address displayed on your driver’s license, passport, and bank statements. 

Cost of moving from NYC to Denver

The average linehaul moving costs from NYC to Denver with Allied is $3,900. However, the amount you pay depends on several additional factors. These include: 

• How many belongings you have – the more possessions you own, the higher the cost of transporting them will be.
• Whether you hire professional movers – attempting to transport all your possessions yourself might be cheaper but far less convenient.
• The distance – NYC is over 1,550 miles from Denver, which could raise the cost significantly.
• Your moving date – expect to pay more if moving during the summer peak season.
• Additional services – packing, furniture assembly, storage, and unpacking all add to the cost of moving.

Fortunately, there are ways you can save on your move. For instance, being ruthless about the possessions you take with you can help. The less you bring, the fewer trucks you will need.

You can also be flexible with your moving date to save money. Moving in the winter is often considerably cheaper than in the summer. The best way to find out how much your move will cost is to get an Instaquote above. 

Most Popular Areas in Denver

Like any other metropolitan area, Denver has its good and bad parts. But which are the most popular among people moving from New York? 

Highlands

Highlands is an ideal location for young professionals who want to live near the river. The area offers plenty of bike stations, restaurants that craft dishes from local ingredients, and thrift shops that donate proceeds to charity. 

The neighborhood also has a thriving bar scene. Denverites regularly use the area for nights out on the town. 

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is another affordable area of town, close to the Santa Fe art district and light rail terminals. Many locals view it as the most connected neighborhood, close to downtown, public transit, and the I-25. 

Despite being at the center of the transport network, Lincoln Park has a peaceful vibe, making it suitable for families. The area is also home to the Auraria Campus of the University of Colorado, which is ideal for students at the start of their careers. 

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is another popular neighborhood for those considering moving from NYC to Denver, thanks to its history, charm, and bustling streets. The area is one of the oldest quarters in Denver, home to beautiful parks and impressive structures, including the gold-crested Capitol building. Residents living in the area enjoy paying regular visits to the Civic Center Park and the History Colorado Center, which tells the story of the Centennial State. 

Cherry Creek

Finally, Cherry Creek is an excellent option for families looking to escape NYC’s crowded apartment blocks and get more space. The area has a lot going for it, including some of the best schools in Colorado and plenty of suitable accommodation. 

The most popular location in the area is the Cherry Creek Shopping Mall. It offers more than 160 stores, including some luxury brands, plus dozens of restaurants and boutiques. 

Why Allied Van Lines?

If you are thinking about making the long move from NYC to Denver, choosing Allied Van Lines is a no-brainer. We have over 95 years of experience and take care of the entire moving process for you, from packing to transporting to unpacking, even over long distances. 

Incredibly, our team has completed more than 750,000 moves in the US over the last fifteen years by building the largest mover network in the world and always learning along the way. Now, we are here to help you relocate, simplifying the process and making the whole experience less stressful. 

If you are interested in moving from NYC to Denver, talk to our team. Ask us about costs and our services in your area.