Denver, Colorado and Washington, DC are two cities with robust economies, diverse cultures, and lots of appealing amenities. Though they share many similarities, they also have distinctive qualities that set them apart. The personality and unique characteristics of a city can greatly influence an individual's decision to relocate or visit, as they significantly affect the living conditions and lifestyle. This detailed comparison will help highlight the key similarities and differences between these two major US cities in various categories.
Distance between
Denver, CO and
Washington, DC : 1,489.0 miles
Denver's population is larger by 6%. Its population has grown by 156,827 people (28.3%) since 2000. The population of Washington has grown by 97,991 people (17.1%) during that time.
Denver enjoys a relatively lower crime rate than Washington D.C. This is particularly welcomed by those planning to settle in Denver with families. The capital, however, has seen decreasing crime rates over the years but still has areas of concern. Both cities have initiatives in place to improve safety efforts and policing. A potential resident or tourist should understand that crime rates vary by neighborhood and tend to be higher in densely populated cities like Washington.
City-data.com crime index counts serious crimes and violent crime more heavily. It adjusts for the number of visitors and daily workers commuting into cities. (higher means more crime, U.S. average = 301.1)
City-data.com crime index counts serious crimes and violent crime more heavily. It adjusts for the number of visitors and daily workers commuting into cities. (higher means more crime, U.S. average = 301.1)
Sex Offenders
According to our data, there are 1,932 registered sex offenders living in Denver and 1,072 registered sex offenders living in . The ratio of residents to sex offenders in Denver is 359 to 1; the ratio in Washington is 635 to 1. The number of registered sex offenders compared to the number of residents is larger in Denver than in Washington.
Cost of Living
Denver's cost of living is generally lower than that of Washington, DC. The cost of housing is the primary factor driving this distinction. The capital city's higher housing costs can be attributed to the higher demand and limited supply, being a smaller, highly sought-after area. However, grocery prices, utilities, and healthcare tend to cost relatively the same in both locations.
Income Tax
Denver follows Colorado's flat-rate state income tax of 4.63%. Washington, DC has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 4% to 8.95%.
Property Tax
Denver residents benefit from a lower property tax rate averaging 0.5%, much lower than the national average. In contrast, Washington, DC has a higher average rate of around 0.5%, but it can vary considerably depending on the neighborhood.
Sales Tax
In Denver, the combined city and state sales tax rate is 8.31%, while in Washington, DC, the sales tax rate is 6%. The lower tax rate in Washington, DC applies to most consumer goods and services.
Income
Type
Denver
Washington
Estimated median household income
$81,630
$90,088
Estimated per capita income
$52,690
$65,808
Cost of living index (U.S. average is 100)
111.3
124.2
If you make $50,000 in Denver, you will have to make $55,795 in Washington to maintain the same standard of living.
Geographical Conditions
Denver is known for its stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop, high altitude, and 300 days of sunshine. It provides a plethora of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. Washington DC, located on the east coast on the Potomac River, features a mix of natural assets including parks, river views, and signature cherry trees.
Both Denver and Washington DC have strong education systems. DC is home to a few prestigious universities, like Georgetown University and George Washington University. Denver has strong public schools and colleges, including the University of Denver and Metropolitan State University. Both cities offer a range of options for early, secondary, and higher education.
Washington DC's economy is primarily driven by the government, but also has strong education, tourism, and tech sectors. Denver's economy is more diverse, with industries ranging from aerospace, telecommunication, and energy to healthcare. Both cities offer a broad range of job opportunities and have a strong focus on tech and expanding sectors.
Biggest Employers
In DC, the US Federal Government is the largest employer, followed by MedStar Health and George Washington University. Denver's largest employer is the Denver International Airport, along with companies like Lockheed Martin and CenturyLink.
There were 1,550 building permits issued in Denver in 2012 (847 more than in 2011) compared to 376 building permits issued in Washington in 2012 (149 more than in 2011).
In Denver (Denver County), 73.9% voted for Democrats and 24.3% for Republicans in 2012 Presidential Election. In Washington (District of Columbia), 90.9% voted for Democrats and 7.3% for Republicans.
Elections
Type
Democrats
Republicans
Other
Year
Denver
Washington
Denver
Washington
Denver
Washington
2020
80.1%
92.6%
18.3%
5.4%
1.6%
2.0%
2016
74.2%
90.9%
19.0%
4.1%
6.8%
5.0%
2012
73.9%
90.9%
24.3%
7.3%
1.7%
1.8%
2008
75.8%
92.5%
23.2%
6.5%
1.0%
1.0%
2004
69.7%
89.6%
29.3%
9.4%
0.9%
1.0%
2000
62.0%
85.2%
30.9%
9.0%
7.0%
5.9%
1996
61.8%
85.2%
30.0%
9.3%
8.2%
5.5%
Breakdown of population affiliated with a religious congregation
Type
Adherents
Congregations
Religion
Denver
Washington
Denver
Washington
CATHOLIC CHURCH
26.6%
12.6%
8.7%
7.4%
AMERICAN BAPTIST CHURCHES IN THE USA
2.1%
6.2%
4.3%
10.3%
EPISCOPAL CHURCH
1.1%
3.1%
3.2%
5.3%
SALVATION ARMY
1.1%
0.1%
0.7%
0.5%
SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION
0.9%
4.4%
6.8%
10.3%
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
0.7%
0.9%
3.0%
1.8%
MUSLIM ESTIMATE
0.5%
0.7%
0.9%
1.1%
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
0.4%
0.5%
2.7%
2.1%
LUTHERAN CHURCH
0.3%
0.1%
2.3%
0.3%
Weather
Denver and Washington, DC have contrasting weather patterns. Denver has a semi-arid, continental climate, with four distinct seasons. It gets more sun than San Diego or Miami. While winters can get cold, heavy snowfall generally gets cleared quickly. In contrast, Washington, DC experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, damp summers and mild to cool winters. Snowfall in the capital is less common and lower than Denver.
Weather and climate
Type
Denver
Washington
Temperature - Average
49.5°F
56.4°F
Humidity - Average morning or afternoon humidity
50.6%
68.8%
Humidity - Differences between morning and afternoon humidity
20%
33%
Humidity - Maximum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
55%
81%
Humidity - Minimum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
35%
48%
Precipitation - Yearly average
17 in
42.7 in
Snowfall - Yearly average
114 in
32.4 in
Clouds - Number of days clear of clouds
19.2%
15.9%
Sunshine amount - Average
75.6%
61.5%
Sunshine amount - Differences during a year
10%
21%
Sunshine amount - Maximum monthly
74%
66%
Sunshine amount - Minimum monthly
64%
45%
Wind speed - Average
8.6 mph
9.7 mph
Average climate in Denver, Colorado
Average climate in Washington, District of Columbia
Air pollution
Type
AQI
CO
NO2
OZONE
PB
PM10
PM25
SO2
Year
Denver
Washington
Denver
Washington
Denver
Washington
Denver
Washington
Denver
Washington
Denver
Washington
Denver
Washington
Denver
Washington
2018
100
88
0.50
0.32
25.4
11.6
27.9
23.2
N/A
N/A
29.2
16.4
8.6
8.8
0.7
0.8
2017
95
84
0.49
0.32
25.9
12.3
27.6
24.9
N/A
N/A
22.0
16.5
8.4
9.8
0.8
1.0
2016
90
98
0.53
0.43
27.7
14.7
27.2
24.6
N/A
0.002
22.6
17.2
8.7
9.5
1.0
1.0
2015
101
91
0.53
0.34
27.8
14.8
25.2
26.2
N/A
0.002
21.0
17.0
10.4
10.4
1.0
1.3
2014
94
85
0.53
0.33
25.4
11.6
24.6
25.9
N/A
0.002
25.1
17.1
10.1
10.0
1.3
1.0
2013
85
88
0.45
0.34
21.9
11.7
24.0
25.6
N/A
0.002
24.4
17.3
N/A
11.6
1.5
1.0
2012
91
103
0.33
0.58
18.9
15.2
26.2
27.6
N/A
0.002
24.9
N/A
N/A
12.2
1.4
1.6
2011
91
105
0.34
0.67
18.1
15.4
25.8
27.7
N/A
0.002
23.7
N/A
N/A
11.4
1.6
3.1
2010
82
114
0.43
0.88
16.3
15.9
23.6
29.3
N/A
0.003
26.4
N/A
N/A
9.3
1.0
3.4
2009
79
90
0.41
0.86
14.1
16.2
23.1
24.4
0.005
0.002
22.2
N/A
N/A
7.6
1.3
4.6
2008
85
103
0.43
1.23
17.3
16.2
26.0
25.3
0.008
0.003
25.2
N/A
N/A
8.5
1.6
5.6
2007
96
113
0.37
1.17
20.6
16.8
21.9
27.1
0.007
0.004
30.2
N/A
N/A
10.4
1.2
5.1
2006
89
114
0.51
1.11
19.0
17.2
22.1
25.5
0.008
0.004
28.0
N/A
N/A
10.9
1.4
4.5
2005
86
105
0.57
0.86
21.3
20.5
20.9
22.7
0.068
0.006
30.9
N/A
N/A
11.7
1.5
4.5
2004
82
113
0.60
0.62
21.2
21.3
19.2
20.6
0.012
0.004
28.6
N/A
N/A
11.3
1.8
6.5
2003
106
108
0.60
0.90
21.2
23.6
20.8
20.8
0.015
N/A
32.6
N/A
N/A
12.2
1.9
8.3
2002
86
125
0.65
1.16
19.2
23.7
20.4
25.0
0.014
N/A
35.7
N/A
N/A
N/A
2.5
6.7
2001
95
113
0.86
1.07
23.6
23.9
18.6
22.0
0.012
0.017
32.6
N/A
N/A
N/A
2.6
6.7
2000
93
115
0.81
1.17
13.4
20.2
19.2
19.1
0.013
N/A
12.2
N/A
N/A
N/A
2.1
8.2
Natural disasters
Type
Denver
Washington
Tornado activity compared to U.S. average
129.5%
110.6%
Earthquake activity compared to U.S. average
811.7%
42.9%
Natural disasters compared to U.S. average
10%
19%
Transportation
Washington, DC's public transportation, highlighted by the Metro, is extensive and efficient. Denver's RTD Light Rail and bus system effectively serve the city and its suburbs. Both cities are bike-friendly and promote walking to reduce traffic congestion.
Transport
Type
Denver
Washington
Amtrak stations
2
1
Amtrak stations nearby
2
3
FAA registered aircraft
602
456
FAA registered aircraft manufacturers and dealers
28
3
Means of transportation to work
Type
Denver
Washington
Bicycle
1.5%
2%
Bus
2.6%
6.3%
Carpooled
8.8%
7.8%
Car alone
81.1%
62.5%
Railroad
1.2%
0.3%
Streetcar
0.2%
10.6%
Subway
0.1%
1.3%
Taxicab
0.1%
0.8%
Walked
2.8%
5.7%
Average travel time to work
Type
Denver
Washington
Average
29.4 min
39.2 min
Other means
24.2 min
26 min
Public transportation
38 min
38.9 min
Private vehicle occupancy
Type
Denver
Washington
Average
1.1
1.1
Drove alone
90.6%
89.4%
In 2 person carpool
7.3%
9.7%
In 3 person carpool
1.3%
0.6%
In 4 person carpool
0.5%
0.4%
In 5-6 person carpool
0.2%
0%
How many people usually rode to work in the car, truck or van.
Real Estate
Real estate tends to be more expensive in DC. It offers historic row houses, modern condos, and single-family homes. Denver's housing market is known for its range of options: Downtown Lofts, traditional single-family homes, suburban communities, or even mountain living on the city's edge.
Neighborhoods
Denver neighborhoods are characterized by varying styles from historic to modern, each with a unique character. Washington, DC has a diversity of neighborhoods ranging from stylish urban locales to serene, tree-lined suburban enclaves, and several rich in history.
Houses and residents
Type
Denver
Washington
Houses
351,829
357,482
Average household size (people)
2.2
2.1
Median year apartment built
1981
1965
Median year house/condo built
1966
1941
Length of stay in the house since moving in
11.3 years
13.5 years
Houses occupied
326,634 (92.8%)
319,565 (89.4%)
Houses occupied by owners
164,429 (50.3%)
132,936 (41.6%)
Houses occupied by renters
162,205 (49.7%)
186,629 (58.4%)
Median rent asked for vacant for-rent units
$1,674
$2,791
Median monthly housing costs
$1,626
$1,817
Median price asked for vacant for-sale houses and condos
$970,375
$996,150
Estimated median house or condo value
$541,500
$669,900
Median numbers of rooms
4.6
3.8
Median number of rooms in apartments
3.5
3.1
Median number of rooms in houses and condos
6.4
6
Median house price - detached houses
$690,450
Over $1,000,000
Median house price - in 2-unit structures
$668,727
Over $1,000,000
Median house price - in 3-to-4-unit structures
$410,273
$471,443
Median house price - in 5 or more unit structures
$487,647
$527,983
Median house price - Townhouses or other attached units
$568,100
$817,288
Median house price - All housing units
$644,007
$790,542
Median house age
47
65
Renting percentage
50%
58%
Housing density (houses/condos per square mile)
2,294.3
5,821.9
House value disparities
26.4%
26.7%
Household income disparities
44%
45.7%
Median household income for houses/condes with a mortgage
$120,615
$163,111
Median household income for apartments without a mortgage
$77,011
$108,852
Housing units without a mortgage
2,112 (1.7%)
777 (0.8%)
Housing units with both a second mortgage and home equity loan
9,615 (7.6%)
8,586 (8.5%)
Housing units with a mortgage
123,690 (98.3%)
100,122 (99.2%)
Housing units with a home equity loan
273 (0.2%)
1,057 (1%)
Housing units with a second mortgage
12,819 (10.2%)
12,793 (12.7%)
House/condo owner moved in on average (years ago)
7
10
House/condo renter moved in on average (years ago)
1
1
Housing units lacking complete kitchen facilities
1.3%
1.5%
Housing units lacking complete plumbing facilities
0.8%
1.5%
Housing units in structures
Housing units in structures
Denver
Washington
One, detached
42.9%
11.2%
One, attached
8.3%
22.2%
Two
2.1%
2.7%
3 or 4
3.1%
6.8%
5 to 9
3.6%
7.3%
10 to 19
7.0%
8.5%
20 to 49
10.4%
7.6%
50 or more
22.0%
33.6%
Mobile homes
0.4%
0.2%
Boats, RVs, vans, etc.
0.1%
0.0%
Median real estate property taxes paid for housing units
Self-employed workers in own not incorporated business
24,661
16,654
State government workers
15,204
6,699
Unpaid family workers
763
580
Industries and Occupations
Washington, DC is most known for its political activities, so many residents work in government-related jobs. Hospitality and tourism are other significant sectors. Denver has a diverse economy with prominent industries, including tech start-ups, mining, construction, and outdoor recreation.
Both cities host state-of-the-art healthcare facilities. Denver's healthcare is noted for its innovation, with top-notch hospitals like UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital. Washington, DC is home to nationally ranked hospitals, including MedStar Georgetown University Hospital.
Health (county statistics)
Type
Denver
Washington
General health status score of residents in this county from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent)
DC's infrastructure, with numerous historical buildings and monuments, is uniquely striking. Roads and public amenities are generally well-maintained. Denver features a blend of vintage and modern infrastructure, including art installations and green spaces. Infrastructure in both cities supports a high quality of life.
Infrastructure
Type
Denver
Washington
Hospitals
16
114
TV stations
17
27
Arenas or stadiums
4
4
Bank branches located here
205
247
Bank institutions located here
43
34
Main business address for public companies
58
30
Drinking water stations with no reported violations in the past
8
5
Drinking water stations with reported violations in the past
HMDA - Conventional home purchase loans - Applications denied
Year
Denver
Washington
1999
2,727
1,328
2000
2,698
1,438
2001
1,996
935
2002
1,591
886
2003
2,472
1,319
2004
3,789
2,281
2005
5,168
2,920
2006
5,506
3,362
2007
3,599
2,548
2008
1,902
1,095
2009
768
514
Culture and Food
Denver offers a western charm and is known for its craft beer scene, music festivals, and outdoor activities. Washington, DC's culture embraces international diversity, showcased through its eclectic food scene, museums, theaters, and historic sites.
Sports Teams
Denver boasts several pro sports teams including the Broncos (NFL), Nuggets (NBA), and Rockies (MLB), appealing to sports enthusiasts. Similarly, Washington, DC is home to the Washington Football Team (NFL), Wizards (NBA), and Nationals (MLB).
Denver, CO
Washington, DC
Denver, CO and 
Washington, DC : 1,489.0 miles
