If you’re wondering whether you should move to Boise or Denver, you’re not alone. Both cities have a lot to offer, and they both have unique features that make them appealing to different people.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of each city, compare their job markets, cost of living, and other factors, and offer some tips on how to make the decision that’s right for you. Let’s get into it!
Should You Move to Boise or Denver?
You should move to Denver if you prefer a big-city vibe, professional sports teams, and a lot of snow. If you desire a small-town feel, occasional snow, and a lower cost of living, then you should move to Boise. If you’re stuck somewhere in between, create a pros and cons list.
Although there are some obvious differences between Boise, Idaho and Denver, Colorado, there are also many similarities.
Hence, the more you know the easier it becomes to make a decision. And that is my intention with this extensive comparison of the two cities. I hope it helps.
Boise vs Denver Safety
Undoubtedly, safety is a top concern when deciding which city is right for you. Both cities have a reputation for being relatively safe, but how do they compare when it comes to crime rates and other factors that affect safety?
First, let’s look at crime rates. According to the latest data from the FBI, Boise’s violent crime rate is lower than the national average, while its property crime rate is slightly higher than the national average.
Denver, on the other hand, has a higher rate of both violent and property crime than the national average.
However, it’s important to remember that crime rates can vary widely within cities and both Boise and Denver both have their fair share of safe and unsafe neighborhoods.
Another factor that can affect safety in a city is its population density. Boise has a population density of about 2,600 people per square mile, while Denver has a population density of about 5,600 people per square mile.
Generally, cities with higher population densities tend to have higher crime rates, as there are more opportunities for criminal activity. However, this is not always the case.
I still feel more comfortable walking around Boise compared to walking around Denver, but I’m biased since I grew up in Boise.
Boise vs Denver Cost of Living
The cost of living in Boise, Idaho is relatively low compared to other cities in the United States.
This makes Boise an attractive option for people looking to relocate or start a new life. However, the recent surge in the price of homes has made the city less affordable than it used to be.
Hence, if you want to live in Boise you’ll need a salary of at least $31,000 to cover all your necessities like rent, food, utilities, and everything else.
Denver on the other hand has a higher cost of living compared to Boise. This is due to a number of factors, including the even higher cost of housing and the city’s larger population.
The estimated required salary to live in Denver is right around $34,000, which is slightly higher than in Boise.
Nevertheless, the cost of living in Denver is offset by the higher wages that are typically offered in the city, but it can still be a challenge for some people to afford to live in Denver especially if you’re used to living a lavish lifestyle.
Boise vs Denver Job Opportunities
As for job opportunities, both Boise and Denver provide numerous opportunities to start your own business, join a startup, or settle down and make your career.
In recent years, Boise has experienced rapid growth in population and businesses alike.
With a thriving tech industry and a number of new companies moving to the city, this has created a range of job opportunities for anyone who wishes to learn a new skill or put their existing work experience to good use.
In fact, there are more than enough jobs to go around in Boise. From retail to factory work to doctors and lawyers, the need for workers is high in the city.
Seriously, I see a “Now Hiring” sign on nearly every building I drive by.
While Boise is quickly becoming a destination for people looking to leave Silicon Valley, Austin, and Salt Lake City, Denver remains a more established tech hub, with a larger and more diverse range of current job opportunities.
Denver is known for its thriving tech industry and its growing start-up scene. The city is home to a number of tech companies, making it a great place to live and work for people with the right skills and experience.
In addition to its bustling business community, Denver also offers job prospects in other industries, including healthcare, finance, and education.
Overall, both Boise and Denver offer a wide range of jobs to choose from. No matter which city you choose, you can expect to find a vibrant job market and a range of options to grow your career.
Boise vs Denver Weather
When it comes to the weather, Boise and Denver actually have a lot in common. Both cities experience all four seasons with hot summers and cold winters.
They both receive snowfall during the winter months, which can be a treat for people who enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities—or a pain for those who don’t like the cold and snowy conditions.
Below is a direct comparison of Boise and Denver’s weather throughout the year.
| Season averages | Boise | Denver |
|---|---|---|
| Summer high | 91.6 degrees | 88.9 degrees |
| Winter low | 23.7 degrees | 19.9 degrees |
| Rainfall | 13 inches per year | 16.7 inches per year |
| Snowfall | 17.5 inches per year | 60 inches per year |
| Sunny days | 205 days per year | 245 days per year |
As you can see, the weather is very similar in both cities. And although Denver has approximately 40 more days of sunshine on average throughout the year, it also receives 240% more snowfall and 28% more rainfall than Boise. Wowzers!
So, the determining factor between the two really comes down to how much you like or dislike snow and rain.
If you don’t mind it, Denver is still a good option. If you want to reduce your exposure to such conditions, Boise might be the better option.
Boise vs Denver Transportation
Boise, Idaho is an extremely walkable city, with an abundance of bike lanes and a 25-mile-long path called the Greenbelt that travels throughout the city. This makes it easy for residents to get around on foot or by bike.
Additionally, Boise offers several types of e-scooters and e-bikes that you can rent to get around the city quickly. Plus, you can always request an Uber or Lyft to pick you up.
However, the main public transportation option in Boise is the Valley Ride bus, which may not be sufficient for some residents.
In contrast, Denver, Colorado offers a wider range of public transportation options, including buses, light rail, and even a regional train system called the RTD.
This makes it easier for Denver residents to travel to different parts of the city without having to rely on a car.
Additionally, Denver has a vibrant bike-sharing program and is working on expanding its network of bike lanes, making it a more accessible city for cyclists.
Overall, while Boise has a strong emphasis on walking and biking, Denver offers more options for public transportation.
Boise vs Denver Entertainment and Fun
Boise and Denver are both great destinations for those of you looking to enjoy a range of activities, from outdoor adventures to cultural events and sporting games.
In Boise, you can explore the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene such as downtown’s Freak Alley—said to be the northwest’s largest open-air, multi-artist mural gallery.
If art isn’t your thing, there are plenty of outdoor activities you might enjoy including hiking, biking, jogging, rock climbing, rafting, boating, swimming, and various winter sports in the colder months.
The city also hosts a variety of local events such as the Hyde Park Street Fair, the Treefort Music Festival, and the Idaho State Fair, all of which are local favorites that bring in hundreds of thousands of people into the city.
Denver also offers a range of outdoor activities, with easy access to the Rocky Mountains and a number of parks and recreational areas.
When it comes to outdoor experiences, I’d say both cities are pretty equal in terms of convenience and options to choose from.
The city also hosts a variety of local events including the Great American Beer Festival, the Cherry Creek Arts Festival, the Denver International Film Festival, and Denver Comic Con just to name a few.
One thing that Denver has over Boise is an array of professional sports teams.
Denver is home to the Nuggets (NBA), the Broncos (NFL), and the Rockies (MLB). So if you’re a sports fan, Denver might just be the best place for you.
Of course, Boise still offers competitive college sports along with minor league teams if you like Boise, but still want to scratch your itch for sports.
How to Choose the City That’s Right for You
Ultimately, it might still be difficult to decide which city is right for you.
Below I’ll provide some basic questions that you must ask yourself and answer honestly if you want to determine whether Boise or Denver is right for you.
- Can you afford to live in Denver? The cost of living in Denver is slightly higher than in Boise. If you can’t afford to live there, well then, you can’t live there.
- Do you mind a lot of snow? Snow is pretty to look at, but have you tried driving in it? If you absolutely love snow, Denver is a great choice. If you don’t mind it occasionally, Boise is the better choice.
- Do you crave a professional sports team? If you’re a huge sports fanatic who enjoys watching all the games in-person, then Denver is a better pick. If you like sports but don’t desire a pro team, Boise will suffice.
- Do you want to live in a big city? Denver’s population nearly triples Boise’s. If you long for a big city vibe, Denver is the obvious choice. If you’re looking for more of a small-town feel, Boise is a no-brainer.