Rent or Buy in Colorado?
Compare the true cost of renting versus buying across 20 cities in Colorado. Get personalized calculations with real market data updated for 2026.
Select Your City in Colorado
Denver
Colorado
Aurora
Colorado
Littleton
Colorado
Fort Collins
Colorado
Lakewood
Colorado
Arvada
Colorado
Parker
Colorado
Centennial
Colorado
Castle Rock
Colorado
Pueblo
Colorado
Greeley
Colorado
Thornton
Colorado
Loveland
Colorado
Grand Junction
Colorado
Commerce City
Colorado
Boulder
Colorado
Westminster
Colorado
Highlands Ranch
Colorado
Longmont
Colorado
Broomfield
Colorado
Rent vs Buy in Colorado: What You Need to Know
Deciding whether to rent or buy a home in Colorado is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll make. The answer isn't the same for everyone—it depends on your specific situation, the city you're considering, and current market conditions.
Market Overview
Across Colorado, the average home price is around $563,159, while average monthly rent sits at $2,173. However, these numbers vary significantly by city. Some markets strongly favor renting, while others make buying the clear winner.
Key Factors to Consider
- How long you plan to stay: Buying typically makes more sense if you'll stay 5+ years
- Local market conditions: Price-to-rent ratios vary widely across Colorado
- Hidden costs: Property taxes, maintenance, and HOA fees add up quickly
- Opportunity cost: Money in a down payment can't be invested elsewhere
- Lifestyle flexibility: Renting offers more mobility and less responsibility
How to Use This Calculator
Select your city above to get a personalized rent vs buy analysis. Our calculator uses real market data from Colorado and considers 59+ financial factors including:
- Current home prices and rental rates in your specific city
- Property taxes and insurance costs
- Mortgage rates and down payment scenarios
- Expected appreciation and inflation
- Maintenance, HOA, and closing costs
- Investment opportunity costs
The calculator will show you the true total cost of each option over your time horizon, helping you make an informed decision based on real numbers, not emotions.