If you’re curious about what it’s like to live in Denver as a digital nomad, you’re at the right spot. Denver, despite being a sizable city, offers a fantastic way to enjoy the beautiful state of Colorado.
I’ve been living in downtown Denver for about eight months now, and I love it! While I’m not a digital nomad per se, I do run my own freelance branding and web design studio remotely, working with clients worldwide. By the end of this guide, you’ll find useful information about the best areas to live, the cost of living, and what it’s like to be a remote worker in Denver.
Living in Denver is unique, which is why I think it’s the perfect place for digital nomads. The city sits at the foothills of the stunning Rocky Mountains, making it an ideal base for exploring the mountains and the rest of the state. Nearby day-trip destinations include Rocky Mountain National Park, Idaho Springs, and Boulder.
The locals in Denver are incredibly friendly, much more so than in some parts of the eastern United States. Denverites are welcoming and love helping newcomers. The city offers numerous outdoor activities, and many locals enjoy hiking, skiing, or snowboarding. Denver’s high altitude (5,280 feet, or 1,609 meters) means you need to stay hydrated due to the dry air. However, this elevation often results in more sunny days than Miami—with over 300 days of sunshine per year.
Working remotely in Denver is great because the city is home to many freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. You could be working from a co-working space in the morning and hiking in the afternoon. Plus, accommodation here is relatively affordable compared to other major cities.
Denver hosts various events throughout the year, many with free entry—perfect for meeting other digital nomads. The city is also a haven for foodies. You can get almost anything delivered through services like Grubhub, Uber Eats, Doordash, and Postmates. Staying active is easy here, too, with options like local gyms, outdoor yoga classes, and city bike rentals.
In terms of safety, Denver is considered one of the safest cities in the USA. However, it’s always wise to use common sense, like avoiding empty streets at night and keeping valuables secured.
Several neighborhoods are ideal for digital nomads:
– LoDo (Lower Downtown) is historic and central, featuring accessible accommodation and attractions.
– Cherry Creek is a beautiful but pricier option with plenty of activities.
– RiNo (River North Art District) offers street art, food, and breweries but may require more use of public transport.
– Highland Park is close to Confluence Park and known for its shops and restaurants.
For co-working spaces, Denver has plenty:
– WeWork offers multiple locations with options for private offices, hot desks, and more.
– Green Spaces in RiNo boasts an industrial-modern vibe.
– Expansive 16th Street features a rooftop balcony.
– Creative Density Coworking is designed specifically for freelancers and offers various desk options.
Finding accommodations in Denver is straightforward. Airbnb, Facebook groups, and VRBO are excellent resources. Wifi speeds here are generally good, and you won’t face connectivity issues.
Denver isn’t the cheapest city in the USA, but it’s definitely affordable. My average monthly spending is around $1,000 with a roommate. The cost of living varies within the city but is generally lower than in places like New York. Getting around is easy and affordable with options like scooters, bikes, and public transportation. Budget-conscious grocery shopping can be done at stores like Safeway or King Soopers, avoiding more expensive options like Whole Foods.
The weather in Denver is fantastic, with lots of sunny days. You’ll experience all four seasons, and snow doesn’t stick around for long. Plan your visit based on the activities you’re interested in; for example, avoid the middle of summer if you want to snowboard.
Living in Denver has its pros and cons, but the positives definitely outweigh the negatives. It’s a wonderful place to live, offering a blend of urban and outdoor activities. If you’re considering Denver as your next digital nomad destination, I highly recommend it.
