Discover the budget side of the Mile High City.
Denver’s blend of outdoor adventures, thriving cultural scene, and major sports teams has drawn people from all over, making the Mile High City a great place to call home. If you’re new to the area, you may wonder how much rent costs in Denver. On average, the monthly rent is $1,801 for a studio, $2,043 for a one-bedroom unit and $2,741 for a two-bedroom unit.
If you’re on the hunt for a more affordable place to call home while still enjoying all that Denver has to offer, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll show you 11 affordable Denver suburbs you may want to consider renting this year. These suburbs provide a balance between affordability and access to the outdoor beauty and urban amenities Denver is known for.
Average rent for a studio: $1,055
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,361
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,628
Distance from Denver: 10 miles
Apartments for rent in Arvada
Claiming the first place on our list of affordable Denver suburbs is Arvada. Compared to Denver, you’ll save about $700 monthly on rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Arvada. It’s only about 10 miles northwest of Denver, so you’re not too far from the city center. Arvada offers a blend of outdoor and cultural attractions for its residents. You can explore the beautiful Apex Park for hiking and mountain biking or visit the historic Olde Town Arvada, filled with charming shops, restaurants and a vibrant arts scene that showcases the town’s rich history.
Average rent for a studio: $1,650
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,542
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,953
Distance from Denver: 10 miles
Apartments for rent in Aurora
Just 10 miles east of Denver is our second suburb, Aurora. The area is home to about 389,400 residents, and the average rents are much less than in Denver. For example, a one-bedroom unit in Aurora costs $1,542, compared to $2,043 in Denver.
There are plenty of outdoor activities in Aurora, like hiking and watching the wildlife in Cherry Creek State Park. You can also explore the Aurora Reservoir, which has fishing, paddleboarding and picnicking opportunities, making it a great destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation.
Average rent for a studio: $1,465
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,574
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $2,027
Distance from Denver: 10 miles
Apartments for rent in Thornton
For those on the hunt for budget-friendly suburban living near Denver, Thornton is just 10 miles to the north. The average rent for a one-bedroom unit is $1,574, compared to Denver’s $2,043 rent, meaning you’ll have considerable savings. Thornton has a range of outdoor activities, such as Trail Winds Park, which offers opportunities for sports, fitness and community gatherings. You can also visit Carpenter Park Fields for picnicking, playing and enjoying the scenic lakeside surroundings, making it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation.
Average rent for a studio: $1,399
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,623
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,957
Distance from Denver: 12 miles
Apartments for rent in Northglenn
Northglenn, which is around 12 miles to the north, is our fourth most affordable suburb. With the average rent for a one-bedroom costing about $400 less than in Denver, Northglenn may be the suburb for you. Northglenn offers numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, including the scenic E.B. Rains Jr. Memorial Park, with its playgrounds, walking trails and a skate park.
Average rent for a studio: $1,300
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,650
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,984
Distance from Denver: 8 miles
Apartments for rent in Lakewood
About 8 miles southwest of Denver, you’ll find the suburb of Lakewood, another great area to add to your list. Home to 156,000 residents, Lakewood can be a great option for renters looking for a less busy city — and affordable rental prices. Lakewood is home to the stunning Bear Creek Greenbelt, where you can enjoy hiking, boating and water sports, all set against picturesque lakes and foothills. The city is also home to Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park, which hosts performances, art exhibitions and cultural events.
Average rent for a studio: $910
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,752
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $2,250
Distance from Denver: 7 miles
Apartments for rent in Commerce City
Ranked sixth on our list, Commerce City is a widely recognized Denver suburb. This community has close to 64,300 residents, making it feel more like a small town. Like many of the other affordable Denver suburbs, Commerce City is full of outdoor activities. For example, you can explore Barr Lake State Park, a birdwatcher’s paradise with hiking trails, a nature center and opportunities for wildlife viewing in a tranquil lake setting. The city is also home to Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, a major sports venue hosting soccer games, concerts and other events throughout the year.
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,779
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $2,204
Distance from from Denver: 16 miles
Apartments for rent in Broomfield
Coming in seventh place on our list of renter-friendly Denver suburbs is Broomfield. It’s only about 16 miles northwest of downtown, making it an excellent option for those commuting. The city is home to Bay Aquatic Park, a family-friendly waterpark perfect for all ages. You can also explore one of the many green spaces like Broomfield Commons Open Space or The Field Open Space.
Average rent for a studio: $1,800
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,787
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $2,412
Distance from Denver: 7 miles
Apartments for rent in Englewood
If you reside in Denver, Englewood is a name you’re likely familiar with. The rents in Englewood average $1,787 for a one-bedroom unit and $2,412 for a two-bedroom unit, so you’re still saving on costs compared to Denver. Englewood has plenty of parks to explore, like Centennial Park, which has a playground and scenic picnic areas along the South Platte River. The city is also home to the Gothic Theatre, a historic music venue hosting concerts and events.
Average rent for a studio: $1,750
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,866
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,900
Distance from Denver: 7 miles
Apartments for rent in Wheat Ridge
Wheat Ridge is a beautiful suburb if you’re a renter looking to remain very close to Denver. This area is just about 7 miles west of downtown Denver, meaning you’re never far from a day spent in Denver. Even better, there are plenty of things to do in Wheat Ridge. For example, you can explore Crown Hill Park, a natural oasis with hiking trails, birdwatching and areas for fishing and picnicking.
Average rent for a studio: $1,300
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,939
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $2,500
Distance from Denver: 10 miles
Apartments for rent in Littleton
Littleton secures the 10th position on our list of affordable Denver suburbs to consider renting an apartment this year. This suburb has a population of 45,200 and is roughly 10 miles south of Denver. In Littleton, you can explore the charming Historic Downtown Littleton, with its boutique shops, restaurants and vibrant arts scene. The city is also close to the stunning Chatfield State Park, where visitors can enjoy boating, hiking and picnicking against the backdrop of the picturesque Chatfield Reservoir.
Average rent for a studio: $1,608
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,949
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $2,523
Distance from Denver: 9 miles
Apartments for rent in Westminster
Westminster is the final suburb on our list. You’ll find Westminster, situated about 9 miles north of Denver. Commute times can vary depending on traffic, but you’ll still save on rent costs. In Westminster, you’ll find plenty of unique and one-of-a-kind attractions.
The area is home to the Butterfly Pavilion, where visitors can interact with live butterflies and other invertebrates. You can also visit Standley Lake Regional Park to hike, boat and watch the wildlife in a beautiful natural setting. If you’re looking to take the leap from renter to buyer, make sure to also check out the most affordable Denver suburbs to buy a home.
Mile High City’s hidden gems
Denver offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and affordability. Exploring the city’s less-expensive areas can unveil hidden gems where residents can enjoy a more budget-friendly cost of living. Denver provides opportunities for individuals seeking affordability without compromising on quality of life whether it’s in Northglenn or Aurora.
As the Mile High City continues to grow, these cost-effective neighborhoods and home prices stand out as appealing options for those looking to make the most of their living expenses in this vibrant and dynamic city. If you’re looking to make your move to Denver, explore available apartments to find the perfect Colorado rental for you.
Methodology
Affordability is based on whether a suburb’s one and two-bedroom rent was less than Denver and under 16 miles from downtown Denver. Average rental data from Denver rental market trends on October 26, 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
Source: rent.com