Cost of Living in Colorado: Are you a student considering moving to Colorado for your studies? Understanding the cost of living in Colorado is important to plan your finances effectively. Colorado is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and excellent educational institutions, but living here comes with certain costs.
From rent and food to transportation and other daily expenses, living in Colorado can be exciting but might also feel expensive. This guide provides students with a detailed overview of the expenses they can expect while living in Colorado, helping them make informed decisions and manage their budgets smartly.
Table of contents
- What is the Cost of Living in Colorado?
- Accommodation Costs in Colorado
- Utility Costs in Colorado
- Food & Groceries Costs in Colorado
- Transportation Costs
- Healthcare Expenses in Colorado
- Entertainment and Leisure Costs
- Average Tuition Fees in Colorado
- Cost of Living in Colorado Compared to Other States
- Tips for Saving Money in Colorado
- FAQs on Cost of Living in Colorado
What is the Cost of Living in Colorado?
Colorado is one of the fastest-growing states in the U.S., known for its scenic beauty and vibrant cities. The Cost of Living in Colorado is around USD 2,500, which is 1.13 times higher than the national average. making it the 12th most expensive state. However, it’s also ranked as the the 15th best states to live in the US, due to its excellent quality of life and opportunities.
The Cost of Living in Colorado covers various expenses, including housing rent, healthcare, transportation, groceries, utilities, and entertainment. Here, we have gathered the average cost of living in Colorado for these categories. Understanding these expenses will help you manage your budget more effectively. To get a better idea of your specific costs, you can also use a cost of living calculator.
Accommodation Costs in Colorado
The cost of accommodation in Colorado depends on the type of housing. A single-bedroom apartment usually costs around USD 1,386, while a house can cost about USD 2,384. Rent is one of the biggest costs that affects the cost of living in Colorado, and it can change based on where you live, the size, and the type of housing. Below is an overview of accommodation costs in Colorado:
| Apartment Type | Approx Price in USD |
| 1 bedroom apartment in city Center, 40 m2 or 430 ft2 | 1,639 |
| Cheap 1 bedroom apartment, 40 m2 or 430 ft2 | 1,386 |
| 3 bedroom apartment in city Center, 80 m2 or 860 ft2 | 2,862 |
| Cheap 3 bedroom apartment, 80 m2 or 860 ft2 | 2,384 |
Utility Costs in Colorado
In Colorado, the cost of basic utilities, including electricity, water, heating, and garbage, typically ranges between USD 100 and USD 200 per month. Additionally, internet services usually cost between USD 50 and USD 80 per month. However, these expenses can vary based on location, household size, and usage. The overall cost of living in Colorado depends on various factors, including utility costs, housing, and other daily expenses. Below is a table outlining the average utility bill:
| Details | Approx Cost / Month (USD) |
| Utility Bill one person, electricity, heating, water, etc. | 112 |
| Utility Bill for a Family, electricity, heating, water, etc. | 173 |
| Internet plan, 50 Mbps+ 1 month unlimited | 66 |
Also Read:
- Cost of Living in North Carolina: Updated Living Cost 2025
- Cost of Living in Nottingham: 2025 Updated Guide
Food & Groceries Costs in Colorado
As a student, food is another significant part of your budget, and the cost of living in Colorado can make it a bit challenging to manage expenses. If you decide to eat out, you can expect to spend around USD 18 for a typical lunch menu. A dinner at a restaurant for two can cost you approximately USD 69.6, so dining out regularly can quickly add up. For a quicker, more affordable option, a fast food meal, like one from McDonald’s, typically costs around USD 11.1.
However, cooking at home is a more affordable option that allows you to save money and enjoy healthy meals. To help you plan your grocery budget, we’ve provided a list of common grocery items and their prices in Colorado.
| Grocery Items | Approx Cost (USD) |
| Milk (1 L) | 1 |
| Bread (0.5 kg) | 3 |
| Rice (1 kg) | 4.42 |
| Eggs (x12) | 3.81 |
| Cheese (1 kg) | 12.2 |
| Chicken Breast (1 kg) | 11.6 |
| Round Steak (1 kg) | 16.4 |
| Apples (1 kg) | 4.53 |
| Banana (1 kg) | 1.59 |
| Oranges (1 kg) | 4.13 |
| Tomato (1 kg) | 4.87 |
| Potato (1 kg) | 2.61 |
| Onion (1 kg) | 2.69 |
| Water (1 L) | 1.42 |
| Coca-Cola / Pepsi (2 L) | 2.93 |
| Cold medicine (1 week) | 10.4 |
| Hair Shampoo | 5.46 |
| Toilet paper (4 rolls) | 4.3 |
| Toothpaste (1 tube) | 2.35 |
Transportation Costs
The cost of transportation depends on how long and how often you travel each month. On average, people spend hundreds of dollars on transportation each month. Public transportation in Colorado costs around USD 94.2 per month, while owning a vehicle costs about USD 657 a month. These expenses contribute significantly to the overall cost of living in Colorado. Below is an overview of transportation costs in the state for your reference.
| Local transport ticket | 3 |
| Monthly ticket local transport | 89 |
| Taxi Ride, 8 km or 5 mi | 17 |
| Gas / Petrol, 1 L or 0.26 gal | 0.88 |
Healthcare Expenses in Colorado
Healthcare expenses are a crucial part of budgeting, as medical costs can arise unexpectedly. While Colorado residents generally lead healthy lifestyles, it’s essential to plan for healthcare expenses. On average, health insurance for a single person in Colorado costs around USD 369 per month. These healthcare costs play a significant role in determining the overall cost of living in Colorado.
Entertainment and Leisure Costs
Living in Colorado as a student isn’t just about paying for essentials like rent and groceries—you’ll also want to have fun and enjoy your time there! Colorado offers plenty of opportunities for recreation, including beautiful parks in the USA, outdoor activities, local restaurants, and more. Here’s a breakdown of some entertainment and fun expenses you might want to plan for:
| Gym Membership, 1 month | 45.70 |
| Cinema Ticket, 1 person | 13.70 |
| Haircut, simple | 23.40 |
| Brand Jeans | 53.60 |
| Brand Sneakers | 94 |
Average Tuition Fees in Colorado
Understanding Colorado universities tuition fees along with the cost of living in the Colorado, is important for students to manage their expenses. This will help them plan their education better. Here’s a breakdown of the costs for studying in Colorado:
| Course Level | Average Tuition Fees |
| Undergraduate | USD 11,406 / year |
| Postgraduate | USD 9,450 / year |
| PhD | USD 17,874 / year |
Also Read:
- Things to Do Near Colorado Springs
- Arizona Cost of Living: A Student’s Financial Guide
Cost of Living in Colorado Compared to Other States
The cost of living in Colorado depends on factors like where you live, your lifestyle, and personal choices, especially when compared to other cities in the United States. Overall, Colorado is more affordable than many big cities. For your reference, we’ve provided a comparison of the cost of living in Colorado vs other cities in the US.
| Cost of Living city-wise | Approx Costs | Comparison Cost of Living in Colorado |
| Cost of Living in San Francisco | USD 3,781 | Higher than Colorado |
| Cost of Living in San Diego | USD 3,346 | Higher than Colorado |
| Cost of Living in Seattle | USD 2908 | Higher than Colorado |
| Cost of Living in California | USD 2,918 | Higher than Colorado |
| Cost of Living in Florida | USD 2,518 | Higher than Colorado |
Factors Affecting the Cost of Living in Colorado
The cost of living in Colorado is influenced by several key factors, including housing, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and more. Understanding these factors can help residents and newcomers budget effectively.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest expense for most Colorado residents. The cost of renting or buying a home varies significantly depending on the city. Metropolitan areas like Denver and Boulder have higher housing costs, while smaller towns may offer more affordable options.
2. Utility Expenses
Basic utilities, such as electricity, water, heating, and garbage collection, typically cost between USD 100 and USD 200 per month. Internet services add another USD 50 to USD 80 per month, depending on the provider and speed.
3. Transportation Costs
Commuting expenses can vary based on how often and how far you travel. Public transportation costs around USD 94.2 per month, while owning a vehicle, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance, averages about USD 657 per month. These expenses significantly impact the cost of living in Colorado.
4. Healthcare Expenses
Even though many Coloradans maintain a healthy lifestyle, healthcare remains an important expense. Health insurance for a single person costs approximately USD 369 per month, and out-of-pocket medical expenses can add up depending on individual needs.
5. Food and Grocery Prices
Grocery prices in Colorado tend to be slightly higher than the national average. The cost of dining out also varies, with restaurant meals being more expensive in cities compared to rural areas.
6. Taxes and Miscellaneous Expenses
Colorado has a flat state income tax of 4.4%, and sales taxes vary by county. Additional expenses, such as entertainment, childcare, and recreational activities, also contribute to the cost of living in Colorado.
Tips for Saving Money in Colorado
Colorado offers beautiful landscapes and a vibrant lifestyle, but the cost of living in Colorado can be high, especially in cities like Denver and Boulder. From housing to daily expenses, managing your budget is important. Here, we’ll share simple tips to help you save money while enjoying all that Colorado has to offer.
- Look for affordable housing: Find homes or apartments outside the big cities or in more affordable neighborhoods to save on rent.
- Use public transportation: Instead of owning a car, use buses or trains to save on gas and car costs.
- Lower your utility bills: Save on energy by using efficient appliances and turning off lights when not in use.
- Find free activities: Enjoy free outdoor activities like hiking or visiting parks, instead of spending money on entertainment.
- Save on groceries: Plan your meals, buy in bulk, and cook at home more often instead of eating out.
- Downsize your lifestyle: Cancel subscriptions and memberships you don’t need to save on unnecessary costs.
- Shop during sales: Take advantage of seasonal sales for better deals on clothes, furniture, or appliances.
- Limit luxury spending: Cut back on non-essential items like designer clothes or gadgets to save money.
- Find free fitness options: Take advantage of free outdoor fitness options or online workout resources instead of paying for a gym membership.
Ultimately, Colorado offers stunning views and great opportunities, but the cost of living can be high, especially in cities like Denver. While it’s a great place to live, it’s important to plan your budget wisely to enjoy all the beauty and benefits without breaking the bank.
We hope you enjoyed reading our blog on the cost of living in Colorado. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal student accommodation abroad with ease.
FAQs on Cost of Living in Colorado
The average cost of living in Colorado is around USD 2,500 per month, which is 1.13 times higher than the national average. This includes expenses for accommodation, utilities, food, transportation, and healthcare.
For a single person, the cost of living in Colorado can be around USD 2,000 to USD 2,500 per month, depending on their lifestyle and location. Key expenses include rent, groceries, transportation, and healthcare.
The cost of living in Colorado is generally higher than in Texas. For example, rent and utilities in Colorado tend to be more expensive, making it one of the more costly states. However, Texas may offer more affordable options in housing and utilities compared to Colorado.
The average cost of living in Colorado per year is approximately USD 30,000 to USD 35,000, considering the monthly cost of around USD 2,500. This figure includes rent, groceries, healthcare, utilities, transportation, and entertainment expenses.
The average cost of living in Denver is approximately USD 2,699 per month, covering expenses such as housing, utilities, food, transportation, and other basic needs.
The average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in Colorado ranges from USD 1,386 to USD 1,639 depending on the location. Rent in city centers like Denver or Boulder tends to be higher than in smaller towns or suburban areas.
Public transportation in Colorado costs around USD 94.2 per month. If you own a vehicle, the cost of owning and maintaining a car is about USD 657 per month, which includes gas, insurance, and maintenance.
Basic utilities such as electricity, heating, water, and garbage usually cost between USD 100 to USD 200 per month. Internet services typically range from USD 50 to USD 80 per month.
To save money on rent in Colorado, consider living in suburban areas or smaller towns near major cities, as rent prices tend to be lower. Additionally, renting a shared apartment or house can help reduce costs.
Eating out in Colorado can range in price depending on the restaurant. A typical lunch menu costs about USD 18, while a dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant can cost around USD 69.6. Fast food meals, such as those from McDonald’s, are around USD 11.1.
Follow Us on Social Media
