Quality of Life for a High-Income Earner in Denver, CO

Income Overview

• Annual Salary: $225,335
• Relative to Denver: Considered a high income.
• National Perspective: Substantially above the U.S. median household income, enabling a relatively affluent lifestyle.

Cost of Living

Comparison to National Average

• Overall Higher: Denver's cost of living is above the national average.
• Key Expense Areas: Housing, transportation, and healthcare.

General Expenses

• Groceries and Utilities: Comparable, sometimes slightly higher than national norms.

Housing Market

Home Prices

• Higher than U.S. Average: Median home prices in Denver significantly exceed national medians.
• Market Dynamics: Competitive with high demand and limited supply contributing to elevated real estate values.

Affordability for High-Income Earners

• Income Advantage: With a salary of $225,335, purchasing a home in Denver is feasible.
• Mortgage Versatility: Able to afford a wide range of properties across most desirable neighborhoods.

Quality of Life

Lifestyle Amenities

• Outdoor Activities: Extensive opportunities for recreation, including hiking, skiing, and biking.
• Cultural Scene: Vibrant, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues.

Transportation

• Commutes: Traffic congestion can be an issue, particularly at peak hours.
• Public Transit: Adequate but not as extensive as larger metropolitan areas.

Access to Healthcare

Healthcare Services

• Varied Options: Access to both high-quality hospitals and specialized medical care.
• Insurance Costs: Often higher than the national average, though manageable with high income.

Quality of Care

• Excellent Rankings: Many healthcare facilities rank highly in terms of service and patient outcomes.

Quality of K-12 Schools

Public Education

• Mixed Performance: Schools vary widely in quality across districts.
• Top-Tier Schools: Some high-performing public and charter schools are available.

Private School Options

• Diverse Choices: Numerous private and preparatory schools catering to different educational philosophies.

Overall Quality of Life Assessment

• Financial Comfort: With a significant income, individuals can enjoy a high standard of living.
• Housing Affordability: Can access a wide range of real estate options.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Rich in recreational and cultural opportunities.
• Healthcare and Education: High quality, though school performance can vary by area.
• Challenges: