Both Denver and Miami offer vibrant city living with numerous amenities and activities. However, Miami has a considerably higher cost of living and a slightly better public school system. Denver has a lower walkability score overall but offers highly walkable neighborhoods. The choice depends on individual priorities regarding cost, education, and lifestyle preferences.
| Attribute | Denver, CO | Miami, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Overall) | Higher than the national average (around 9% to 9.1% higher). Housing costs are significantly higher (23% to 24% higher), while utilities are reportedly 11% lower. A single person's estimated monthly costs are around $3,635, and a family of four may have monthly costs around $6,357. To live comfortably, a single adult should aim for a salary around $63,048 before taxes. | Significantly higher than the national average (19-21% higher). Housing costs are a major factor, being approximately 57-59% more expensive than the U.S. average. Annual income around $87,048 (single adult) or $100,440 (family) recommended for comfortable living. |
| Median Home Price | Range of $535,093 to $650,555 (fluctuations possible). | Around $627,500. Different sources provide slightly varying figures, such as $640,000 in January 2025, $626,900 in July 2025, and an average home value of $588,264. |
| Crime Rate (Violent & Property) | High crime rate compared to other communities in America. In 2021, the chance of becoming a victim of violent crime was 1 in 98, and for property crime, it was 1 in 17. In 2024, Denver experienced 7,545 violent crimes and 45,336 property crimes. Recent data indicates a decrease in both violent and property crime. | Relatively high compared to other U.S. cities. Crime rate is about 29.79 incidents per 1,000 residents. Chances of becoming a victim of violent crime are about 1 in 205. Property crime rate is approximately 26 per 1,000 residents. Crime rates are higher than the national average. |
| Quality of Public Schools (Rating) | Average ranking of 5/10, placing them in the bottom 50% of Colorado public schools. The average math proficiency score is 28% (state average of 33%), and the reading proficiency score is 38% (statewide average of 45%). Top-ranked public schools include Polaris Elementary School, Dennison Elementary School, and Challenge School. | Average ranking of 7/10, placing them in the top 50% of Florida public schools. Average math proficiency score of 58% and a reading proficiency score of 58%, both exceeding the Florida public school average of 52%. |
| Walkability Score | Overall walkability score of 61. Certain neighborhoods like the Central Business District (97), Golden Triangle (96), and Capitol Hill (94) have much higher walkability scores. | Walk Score of 77, indicating it is 'Very Walkable,' where most errands can be done on foot. Most walkable neighborhoods include Downtown (Walk Score of 91), Wynwood-Edgewater (Walk Score of 87) and Little Havana (Walk Score of 87). |
| Access to Public Transportation | Public transportation system including buses and light rail. The Regional Transportation District (RTD) provides routes, fares, and other information. Denver's Union Station is a central transit hub. | Various options, including Metrorail, Metromover, Metrobus, and the Miami Trolley. Metromover is a free, automated transportation system in Downtown Miami. The Miami Trolley also provides free transportation around various neighborhoods. |
| Job Market (Unemployment Rate) | Not available | Unemployment rate was 2.6% in February 2025. As of June 2025, the unemployment rate is 3.20%. The Miami metro area added 22,900 private sector jobs over the year in February 2025. |
| Cultural Amenities (Museums, Theaters, Music Venues) | Variety of cultural amenities, including museums like the Denver Art Museum and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, and music venues. The Denver Performing Arts Complex is a major center for theater and performing arts. | Wide array of cultural amenities. Wynwood has a vibrant scene with art, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. |
| Outdoor Activities (Parks, Trails) | Numerous parks and trails. Popular spots include Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Cherry Creek State Park, and Confluence Park. | Numerous outdoor activities, with approximately 800 parks. Popular options include Everglades National Park, Oleta River State Park, and Crandon Park. |
| Restaurant Scene (Variety & Quality) | Thriving restaurant scene with a variety of options from farm-to-table bistros to classic steakhouses. The city has emerged as one of the top dining locations in the country. | Diverse and high-quality restaurant scene. During August and September, Miami Spice offers prix-fixe menus at top restaurants. |
| Nightlife (Bars, Clubs) | Chic lounges, dance clubs, and live music venues. Popular nightclubs include RIOT House, Temple Nightclub and Milk Bar. | Vibrant nightlife, especially in South Beach, with clubs like LIV, Story, and Icon. Wynwood also has a thriving nightlife scene. |
| Diversity (Ethnic, Economic) | Minority enrollment is 71% of the student body in Denver public schools, with a majority being Hispanic. | Diverse city, with a significant Hispanic population. |