Denver rentals are in high demand as newcomers from across the country continue moving to Denver in search of jobs, lifestyle, and affordability. According to a recent report from Apartment List, Denver topped the list of U.S. cities with the most rental search activity during a six-month period in 2019. Nearly half—48%—of all searches on the platform targeted Denver rentals, with notable interest from Washington D.C., San Francisco, and Seattle.
Denver Rentals: What the Data Shows
In its study, Apartment List analyzed user search behavior from July 2019 to December 2019, focusing on where renters were looking to move. The findings? A staggering 48% of all rental searches during that period targeted the Denver metro area.
Even more telling, 10.5% of those searches came from the Washington D.C. area, 2.4% from San Francisco, and 1.1% from Seattle. It’s clear that renters from major metropolitan areas are seeking a new life in Colorado—and renting in Denver is their first step.
Denver Rentals: Why Renters Are Moving to Denver
So, what’s behind the spike in interest?
First and foremost, Denver’s economy is booming. The city is home to growing industries such as tech, aerospace, healthcare, and green energy. With a tight labor market, companies are scrambling to fill open roles, and highly skilled workers are in demand. Major corporations like VF Corporation have moved their headquarters to Denver, bringing with them waves of talent and new job seekers.
But it’s not just about jobs. Quality of life in Denver is a major draw for newcomers. With the Rocky Mountains just a short drive away, locals can enjoy skiing, hiking, mountain biking, and stunning scenery—all in the same weekend. Imagine hitting the slopes in the morning, catching a Rockies baseball game or golfing in the afternoon, and finishing the day with a local craft beer. That’s the Colorado lifestyle.
Denver also experiences all four seasons, and there’s always something to do outdoors year-round. Add in a central location and a well-connected airport, and it’s no wonder people are moving to Denver and choosing to rent.
Tips for Renting in Denver
The rental market in Denver is competitive. Vacancy rates can be low, especially in popular neighborhoods like Capitol Hill, Wash Park, RiNo, and Central Park. If you’re relocating to Denver and looking to rent before you buy, be prepared to act quickly when you find the right place.
Here are a few trusted sites to begin your search:
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www.apartmentlist.com – Data-driven search tools tailored for newcomers
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www.trulia.com – Great for neighborhood overviews and rental trends
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www.zillow.com – Extensive listings and filters for budget, size, and amenities
Pro tip: Set up alerts on each of these platforms to get notifications the moment new listings hit the market. Many newcomers begin their rental journey in Denver while still living out of state, so virtual tours and pre-approval paperwork are often part of the process.
Living the Colorado Lifestyle While Renting in Denver
Renting gives you the flexibility to explore before committing to a home purchase. You’ll have time to discover which Denver neighborhood fits your lifestyle, commute, and budget. Whether you want walkability, mountain views, nightlife, or top-rated schools, you’ll find it in one of the city’s many distinct districts.
And don’t worry—there’s no rush. Many newcomers rent for a year or more before deciding to buy. With Denver’s rental inventory including everything from luxury high-rises to charming bungalows, the options are diverse and worth exploring.
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