Kept

City vs city

Denver vs Phoenix

$100,000 in Denver buys a lifestyle closer to $87,000 in Phoenix, because Phoenix's cost-of-living index is 110 versus 126.

Denver

A magnet for remote workers. Housing is the main cost pressure versus the US average.

COL index
126
Typical 1-bed
$1,850/mo
Comfortable salary
$107,000
$100k take-home
$75,488
Full Denver guide

Phoenix

Sun Belt growth, a 2.5% flat state tax, and summers that drive up power bills.

COL index
110
Typical 1-bed
$1,550/mo
Comfortable salary
$94,000
$100k take-home
$76,889
Full Phoenix guide

More comparisons: vs New York Cityvs San Franciscovs San Josevs Oaklandvs Los Angelesvs San Diego