countyscore
33.8
County Score
Income & Jobs 92.7Property Tax 91.2Water Quality 71.8

County Report Card

About Denver County, Colorado

Denver scores below the national median

Denver County's composite score of 33.8 falls significantly below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the bottom third nationally. This reflects a challenging livability profile driven by some acute disadvantages despite pockets of strength in income and taxation.

Below average among Colorado counties

Denver ranks below the state average composite score of 51.2, indicating it faces greater livability headwinds than most of its neighboring Colorado counties. The county's overall score masks a deeply divided profile of advantages and serious challenges.

Denver excels in income and taxes

Denver leads on income, with a median household income of $91,681 and an income score of 92.7, and boasts one of the state's lowest tax burdens at a 0.443% effective rate (tax score: 91.2). Water infrastructure also scores well at 71.8, reflecting significant investment in municipal systems.

Housing costs and safety are critical gaps

Denver's cost score plummets to 2.9—among the worst in the state—with median home values at $586,700 and gross rent at $1,770/month, making housing inaccessible for many households. Safety (0.9) and schools (9.5) are equally concerning, indicating serious public safety challenges and struggling schools that undermine overall livability.

Best for high-income workers accepting trade-offs

Denver suits established professionals and high-earners who prioritize urban amenities and strong incomes over affordability and schools. Families with school-age children or those seeking safe, affordable neighborhoods should look elsewhere in Colorado.

Score breakdown

Tax91.2Cost2.9Safety0.9Health65Schools9.5Income92.7Risk4.8Water71.8Weather40
🏛91.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠2.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼92.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡0.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤65
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓9.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡4.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧71.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤40
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨36.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱39.7
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Counties with similar scores

Jefferson County
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Median income: $48,552
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Forsyth County
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Vance County
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Imperial County
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San Bernardino County
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Douglas County
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Nearby counties

Jefferson County
Colorado
40
Broomfield County
Colorado
45.5
Douglas County
Colorado
47.8
Boulder County
Colorado
43.4
Gilpin County
Colorado
47.9
Arapahoe County
Colorado
43.1
Adams County
Colorado
30.4
Clear Creek County
Colorado
49.9

Deep Dives

Denver County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Denver County

via TaxByCounty

Denver taxes higher than most Americans

Denver's effective tax rate of 0.443% exceeds the national median of 0.381%, placing the county in approximately the 60th percentile nationally. Homeowners here pay a median of $2,596 annually, which is modest compared to the national median of $2,690, because Denver's median home value of $586,700 sits well above the U.S. average of $281,900.

Denver ranks in Colorado's upper tier

With an effective rate of 0.443%, Denver ranks above Colorado's state average of 0.393%, placing it in the upper half of the state's 64 counties. The county's median tax of $2,596 significantly exceeds Colorado's state median of $1,560, reflecting both higher property values and tax rates.

Denver pays more than mountain neighbors

Denver's 0.443% rate is notably higher than Eagle County's 0.410% and Garfield County's 0.427%, though lower than Douglas County's 0.550%. Among the region's comparable counties, Denver's tax burden sits solidly in the middle range, offering a balance between urban amenities and moderate levy rates.

Typical Denver homeowner pays $2,596 yearly

On Denver's median home value of $586,700, a homeowner pays approximately $2,596 in annual property taxes at the current 0.443% effective rate. This estimate can vary based on specific property assessments and local exemptions.

Denver homeowners can appeal assessments

Research suggests that many Colorado homeowners are overassessed by 5–15%, meaning you may be paying more than your fair share. If your property's assessed value seems high relative to comparable homes, filing an appeal with Denver's assessor's office is free and could reduce your annual tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Denver County

via CostByCounty

Denver's rent burden outpaces nation

Denver residents spend 23.2% of their income on rent, compared to the national median of roughly 28-30% for renters nationally, putting the county in moderate territory. With a median household income of $91,681—well above the national average of $74,755—Denverites earn more but also face steeper housing costs than most Americans.

Above average among Colorado counties

Denver's 23.2% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Colorado's state average of 20.2%, placing it in the less affordable tier within the state. The county's median rent of $1,770 is 41% higher than the statewide average of $1,253.

More expensive than most Colorado peers

Denver's median rent of $1,770 edges out Eagle County ($2,032) and Douglas County ($2,095), making it the third-priciest rental market among its peer counties. However, Denver households earn significantly less than Douglas County ($145,737) and Elbert County ($129,477), narrowing its affordability advantage.

Renting costs more than buying here

Renters pay $1,770 monthly while homeowners face $1,979 in monthly costs on a median home value of $586,700. On a $91,681 median income, Denver households dedicate roughly 23% to rent or 26% to mortgage payments, leaving limited room for other expenses.

High earners find Denver reasonable

If you're relocating to Colorado and earning above $90,000, Denver offers urban amenities with manageable housing costs. But renters on smaller incomes should compare El Paso County ($1,609 rent) or Fremont County ($1,036 rent) for significantly lower burden.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Denver County

via IncomeByCounty

Denver earns 22% above the nation

Denver's median household income of $91,681 significantly outpaces the U.S. median of $74,755, placing the county in the upper tier nationally. This $16,926 advantage reflects Denver's role as Colorado's economic engine and a major tech and professional services hub.

Second-highest income in Colorado

Denver ranks second among Colorado's 64 counties in median household income, just behind Douglas County's $145,737. The county's $91,681 exceeds Colorado's state average of $74,792 by 23%, signaling strong earning power.

Denver outearns surrounding counties

Denver's $91,681 median household income substantially exceeds nearby El Paso County ($87,470) and Garfield County ($86,172). Eagle County, another affluent neighbor, reaches $103,174—a reminder that mountain resort communities can rival or exceed metro areas.

Housing costs remain manageable here

At 23.2%, Denver's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the 30% threshold that signals affordability stress, despite a median home value of $586,700. Strong median incomes help residents weather Colorado's competitive housing market.

Your income supports long-term wealth building

With median household income 22% above the national average, Denver residents have room to prioritize retirement savings, investment accounts, and homeownership. Financial planners recommend channeling this earning advantage into diversified portfolios and emergency reserves to weather economic shifts.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Denver County

via CrimeByCounty

Crime Levels Above National Benchmark

Denver County's total crime rate of 7,497 per 100K is significantly higher than the national average of 2,385.5. Despite this high activity level, the county maintains a safety score of 88.2 out of 100.

Comparing Denver to Colorado Averages

The county's safety score of 88.2 falls below the Colorado state average of 97.1. As a major urban hub, Denver faces more complex public safety challenges than the typical Colorado county.

Higher Activity Than Neighboring Areas

Denver's crime rate is over four times the state average of 1,834.6 per 100K. This concentration of activity reflects its status as the state's primary metropolitan center compared to quieter surrounding suburbs.

The Property Crime Challenge

Property crime accounts for 6,429.2 incidents per 100K, while violent crime sits at 1,067.8. These figures indicate that theft and burglary are the most frequent concerns for local law enforcement.

Taking Steps to Secure Homes

Given the high property crime rate, smart home security systems and visible cameras are effective deterrents. Residents benefit from staying connected with neighbors to report suspicious activity immediately.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Denver County

via HealthByCounty

Denver's life expectancy lags national average

At 77.4 years, Denver County residents live slightly shorter lives than the U.S. average of 78.9 years. The county's 17.3% poor or fair health rate exceeds the national benchmark, signaling persistent health challenges in Colorado's largest city.

Below state average despite urban advantages

Denver's 77.4-year life expectancy falls 0.8 years short of Colorado's 78.2-year state average, despite the county's urban resources and population density. This gap reflects concentrated health disparities in the metro core.

Douglas County far outpaces Denver's health

Suburban Douglas County residents live to 82.5 years—5.1 years longer than Denver—with only 9.8% reporting poor or fair health compared to Denver's 17.3%. The contrast highlights how geography and socioeconomic factors drive health outcomes within the metro area.

Mental health providers abundant, primary care stretched

Denver has 792 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—more than 6 times the national median—yet only 130 primary care providers per 100K. With 8.5% of residents uninsured, access barriers persist despite the city's healthcare infrastructure.

Check coverage options for Denver residents

One in 12 Denver residents lacks health insurance. Visit Colorado.gov or Connect for Health Colorado to explore marketplace plans, Medicaid eligibility, and employer coverage options tailored to your situation.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Denver County

via SchoolsByCounty

Colorado's Largest Urban School System

Denver County hosts a massive educational landscape with 205 public schools serving 88,636 students. The system is exceptionally diverse, featuring 114 elementary, 34 middle, and 51 high schools. Charter schools play a major role here, with 57 schools representing nearly 28% of all public options.

Navigating Large-Scale Urban Challenges

Denver's graduation rate of 73.3% sits below the state average of 83.1% and the national 87% benchmark. The county invests $6,100 per pupil, which is lower than both state and national spending levels. These factors contribute to a composite school score of 42.8, highlighting the complexities of the state's largest district.

Denver Public Schools Dominance

School District No. 1 (Denver Public Schools) is the primary engine, managing 203 schools and over 87,000 students. The district is a leader in school choice, offering dozens of charter and magnet programs. For those seeking alternatives, there are 20 designated alternative schools within the city's borders.

Vibrant City Life and Large Campuses

With 198 schools classified as city locales, the education experience is deeply urban and fast-paced. Average school size is 432 students, but flagship campuses like East High School can reach over 2,500. This scale allows for immense diversity in extracurriculars, arts, and advanced academic tracks.

Unlimited Choice in the Mile High City

Homebuyers in Denver have access to the state's most extensive selection of specialized and charter schools. From high-performing neighborhood schools to international magnets, there is a program for every type of learner. Use school choice as a guide when exploring Denver’s diverse and historic neighborhoods.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Denver County

via RiskByCounty

Denver's risk profile ranks high nationally

Denver County scores 95.23 on composite disaster risk, classifying it as Relatively High—more than double the state average of 40.67. This puts Denver among the more vulnerable counties nationwide for natural hazards when measured across multiple threat categories.

Second-highest risk in Colorado

Denver ranks near the top of Colorado's counties for disaster risk, trailing only a handful of counties statewide. Its proximity to the Front Range, combined with dense urban infrastructure, amplifies exposure to flooding, seismic activity, and severe weather.

Significantly riskier than surrounding counties

Denver's composite score of 95.23 far exceeds neighboring counties like Elbert (36.58) and El Paso (94.05), which are less densely developed. The concentration of people and property in Denver intensifies the potential impact of any single disaster event.

Tornadoes and earthquakes top the list

Denver faces a tornado risk score of 97.87 and earthquake risk of 91.03—both extreme threats. Flooding is equally concerning at 95.26, with the South Platte River and urban drainage systems creating vulnerability during heavy rainfall events.

Comprehensive coverage is essential here

Standard homeowners policies typically exclude flood and earthquake damage; Denver residents should secure separate policies for both hazards. Given the tornado threat, ensure your policy covers wind damage and consider a safe room or shelter in your home.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Denver County

via WeatherByCounty

Denver: Mile-High City, Moderate Warmth

At 51.7°F, Denver County is approximately 2.2 degrees warmer than the U.S. median of 49.5°F, placing it in the warmer tier of American counties. Its 16.0 inches of annual precipitation exactly matches the national median, making Denver climatically representative of the continental United States despite its high elevation. This temperate high-altitude climate defines the Front Range metro area.

Denver: Warmer Than Most Colorado Counties

Denver County's 51.7°F average ranks it among Colorado's three warmest counties, sitting 5.7 degrees above the state average of 46.0°F. The county's 16.0 inches of precipitation match the state average exactly, providing balanced moisture for a high-elevation urban area. Denver's location in the South Platte River valley at 5,280 feet elevation creates a temperate micro-climate.

Urban Warmth on the Front Range

Denver County is warmer than adjacent Adams, Boulder, and Douglas counties (which range 1–2 degrees cooler due to elevation and urban heat island effects being less pronounced). Its 46 extreme heat days sit between plains extremes (86 in Crowley) and mountain coolness (0 in Clear Creek), reflecting its Front Range location. Compared to all regional neighbors, Denver's urban area creates a distinct warmth island.

Sunny Winters, Moderate Summers, Dry Air

Denver County experiences 46 days per year above 90°F, with July averaging 74.9°F and January rising to 32.8°F—the warmest January average of any county in this dataset. Annual snowfall totals 41.3 inches, moderate for a Front Range location, and melts quickly due to intense March–April sunshine. The combination of frequent sunshine, low humidity, and rapid temperature swings is Denver's defining climate trait.

Manage Altitude and Intense Sun Year-Round

Residents must invest in good air conditioning for 46 annual days above 90°F and adequate heating for mild winters (32.8°F average in January); the real challenge is the intense high-altitude sun and low humidity that cause rapid heat loss. Sunscreen and eye protection are essential every season due to high UV exposure; indoor spaces require humidification during winter heating season. Outdoor activities thrive most of the year; plan around infrequent but rapid snowmelt and spring wind events.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Denver County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Urban Soils in the Mile High City

Denver's soil is notably alkaline with an average pH of 7.26. This exceeds the national median of 6.5 and aligns closely with Colorado’s statewide average of 7.29.

A Balanced Mix of Sand and Silt

The ground consists of 47.0% sand, 31.7% silt, and 21.3% clay. This loamy mixture offers moderate workability but requires careful management to prevent compaction in high-traffic urban settings.

High Water Retention Despite Lower Organic Matter

At 1.52%, organic matter is lower than the national 2.0% average and the state’s 2.18%. However, the available water capacity of 0.159 in/in beats the state average of 0.139, showing a strong ability to hold moisture.

Stronger Performance Than the State Average

While specific drainage classes are unavailable, Denver earns a total soil score of 36.5. This outpaces the Colorado average score of 31.3, indicating relatively better local conditions for cultivation.

Resilient Gardening in Zone 6a

Hardiness zone 6a supports a variety of resilient perennials and urban vegetable gardens. With proper organic amendments to lower the pH, your Denver garden can thrive despite the alkaline baseline.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Denver County

via LawnByCounty

Overcoming Semi-Arid Challenges in Denver

Denver's lawn difficulty score of 39.7 sits below the national median of 50.0 but remains slightly easier than the Colorado state average. This hardiness zone 6a environment requires a dedicated maintenance schedule to keep turf healthy in a dry mountain climate.

High Heat and Low Rainfall

Denver averages 46 extreme heat days per year, which is significantly higher than the state average of 27. With only 16.0 inches of annual precipitation compared to the 30-50 inches lawns prefer, supplemental irrigation is mandatory for survival.

Managing Alkaline and Sandy Soils

The soil pH of 7.26 is slightly more alkaline than the ideal 7.0 range for grass. A composition of 47.0% sand and 21.3% clay means homeowners should focus on adding organic matter to improve water retention.

Navigating Severe Drought Conditions

The county spent 32 weeks in drought over the past year, and 100% of the area currently experiences severe drought. Watering deeply but infrequently during the early morning hours helps roots reach deeper into the soil.

Starting Your Zone 6a Lawn

Hardy varieties like Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue thrive here if planted after the last frost around May 4. Focus on seeding in the early fall or late spring to avoid the peak heat of summer.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Denver County's county score?
Denver County, Colorado has a composite county score of 33.8 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Denver County rank among counties in Colorado?
Denver County ranks #62 among all counties in Colorado on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Denver County, Colorado?
The median annual property tax in Denver County is $2,596, with an effective tax rate of 0.44%. This earns Denver County a tax score of 91.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Denver County?
The median household income in Denver County, Colorado is $91,681 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Denver County earns an income score of 92.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Denver County, Colorado a good place to live?
Denver County scores 33.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #62 in Colorado. The best way to evaluate Denver County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Denver County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.