Denver Moving Guide: The Ultimate Guide for Relocating to the Mile High City

Thinking about moving to Denver? You’re not alone. Thousands of people relocate to the Mile High City each year, drawn by its stunning scenery, booming job market, and laid-back yet adventurous lifestyle. But while the idea of starting fresh in Colorado’s capital is exciting, the actual process of relocating can feel overwhelming.

When most people start planning a move, the first thing they Google is “Denver movers cost.” That’s because budget plays a huge role in relocation. You want to know what you’re getting into before hiring a moving crew. At Moving Brothers, we make it easy with transparent, upfront pricing that eliminates surprises. Whether you’re moving into an apartment, condo, or single-family home, we’ll help you plan with confidence.

This Denver moving guide not only covers what you’ll pay for movers in Denver, CO, but also breaks down neighborhoods, cost of living, and a step-by-step moving checklist. Think of it as your all-in-one resource for relocating to the Mile High City.

Denver Movers Cost: What to Expect

The cost of hiring a Denver moving company depends on the size of your home, the services you need, and the distance of your move. To give you a clear idea, here’s a breakdown of typical local moving costs in Denver, CO:

Factors that impact price: number of movers needed, stairs or elevators, specialty items (pianos, safes), distance, and whether you need packing/unpacking.

Pro Tip: Always ask about hidden fees. At Moving Brothers, our pricing is straightforward — no extra charges for stairs or long carries.

Why Denver Attracts Newcomers

Denver has become one of the most desirable U.S. cities for newcomers in recent years, and for good reason. It combines city amenities with easy access to the outdoors, offering a lifestyle that appeals to professionals, families, and adventurers alike.

What makes Denver so appealing:

• Scenic Outdoors: The Rocky Mountains are practically in your backyard, offering world-class hiking, biking, and skiing.
• Culture & Entertainment: Denver is home to live music, local festivals, museums, and four professional sports teams.
• Food & Drink: From farm-to-table dining to a thriving craft beer scene, the city has options for every taste.
• Career Opportunities: Denver consistently ranks as one of the best U.S. cities for jobs, especially in tech, healthcare, and energy.
• Community Vibe: Locals are known for being welcoming and friendly, helping newcomers settle in quickly.

Things to Know Before You Move to Denver

Moving to Denver isn’t just about picking a house; it’s also about adjusting to a unique lifestyle. Here are a few quirks and practical tips you should know before you go:

1. The Altitude Will Affect You

Denver sits at 5,280 feet above sea level. That means thinner air, less oxygen, and a higher chance of dehydration. Give yourself a few weeks to adjust, drink plenty of water, and go easy on alcohol and caffeine until your body acclimates.

2. Weather is Unpredictable

Denver averages over 300 days of sunshine a year, but that doesn’t mean steady weather. You can experience snow in May and 70-degree temps in January. Layers are your best friend here, and a snow shovel is just as essential as sunscreen.

3. Cost of Housing is Competitive

The housing market moves fast. If you’re planning to buy, be prepared to act quickly. Renting is more flexible, but competition for desirable neighborhoods can be stiff, so start searching early.

4. Outdoor Lifestyle is the Norm

Hiking boots and mountain bikes are practically a second wardrobe. If you’re not already outdoorsy, don’t worry, Denver will turn you into one. Get ready for weekend ski trips, mountain hikes, and plenty of park picnics.

5. Local Culture is Laid-Back but Active

Denverites are friendly, but they also value health and fitness. Don’t be surprised if networking happens on a hiking trail or if coworkers invite you to a weekend ski trip.

Bottom line: Moving to Denver is more than a change of address, it’s a change of lifestyle. The sooner you embrace the city’s unique rhythm, the faster you’ll feel at home.

Denver Cost of Living: What to Expect

Denver is not the cheapest city, but it’s still more affordable than many other big metros like San Francisco or Seattle.

Average Costs in Denver:

• Rent (1BR apartment): $1,800+
• Median home price: ~$640,000
• Utilities: $140–$200/month
• Coffee: $5
• Movie Ticket: $14
• Doctor Visit: $100+

Budgeting Tip: Transportation can make or break your budget. If you live near an RTD light rail or bus line, you may not need a car right away, which helps save thousands on gas, insurance, and parking.

Schools and Education Options

Families moving to Denver will find a wide range of school choices.

• Denver Public Schools (DPS): Over 200 schools, with a strong focus on school choice.
• Charter & Magnet Schools: Programs specializing in STEM, arts, or language immersion.
• Higher Education: University of Denver, CU Denver, and Metropolitan State University are all located in the city.

Many schools also emphasize outdoor learning, making use of Denver’s natural environment.

Transportation: Getting Around the Mile High City

Denver’s Regional Transportation District (RTD) provides plenty of ways to get around without a car:

• Light Rail & Commuter Rail: Connects downtown to suburbs and Denver International Airport.
• Bus Network: Covers nearly every part of the metro area.
• Bike-Friendly: Dedicated bike lanes and citywide trails.

That said, many residents still choose to own cars, especially if they commute outside the city center.

Local Favorites & Must-See Spots

Once you’re unpacked, get to know your new city by exploring these local hangouts:

• Larimer Square: Historic shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
• Union Station: A travel hub turned dining and shopping destination.
• 16th Street Mall: Walkable strip with shopping and entertainment.
• Red Rocks Amphitheatre: Legendary concert venue in a natural setting.
• Golden Gate Canyon State Park: Hiking and camping are less than an hour away.

Moving Timeline: Step-by-Step Checklist

Relocation gets easier with a timeline. Here’s your roadmap:

3 Months Before Move

• Research neighborhoods, schools, and job options.
• Book a Denver moving company early.
• Start decluttering. Donate or sell items you won’t bring.

1 Month Before Move

• Create a room-by-room packing list.
• Begin packing non-essentials.
• Schedule utilities (water, electric, internet) for your new home.

1 Week Before Move

• Pack an essentials bag: toiletries, snacks, chargers, documents.
• Confirm moving day details with your movers.
• Forward mail through USPS.

Moving Day

• Keep hallways and entryways clear for movers.
• Double-check each room before leaving.
• Label boxes by room for faster unpacking.

After Move-In

• Do a safety check of your new home (loose boards, leftover chemicals, etc.).
• Meet neighbors and start exploring.
• Celebrate with a meal out or a walk around your new neighborhood.

Why Move with Moving Brothers

At Moving Brothers, we’ve spent over a decade helping families and individuals relocate to Denver. We know the city inside and out, and we know how stressful moving can feel without the right help.

Why locals trust us:

• Licensed, insured, and highly rated.
• Full-service moving: packing, storage, and transport.
• Transparent pricing with no surprises.
• A+ BBB rating and top customer reviews.

We don’t just move boxes, we make your transition to Denver smoother and less stressful.

Your Next Steps for a Smooth Denver Move

With this guide, you’ll know what to expect, how to plan, and what steps to take before, during, and after your move. Pair it with a trusted moving team, and you’ll be ready to start your Denver adventure on the right foot.

Ready to get started? Contact Moving Brothers today for a free, no-obligation moving quote.