Perhaps you have decided to move from the “Centennial State” to San Diego. Congratulations! Not only are you leaving behind the cold, crisp winters, but you are also relocating to a state known for its sunshine, sports teams, and world-famous zoo. You’ve done the necessary research and are now ready to relocate. However, if you’re still unsure whether this move is right for you or if you’d like additional information before packing up, here are a few tips and suggestions to consider when contemplating a move to San Diego from Colorado.
Making a move can be costly. There are packing fees, long-distance movers fees, and even some hidden costs you may not have even thought about. Moving requires some strategic planning as well. If you’re in the process of relocating or simply trying to decide if this move is right for you, check this complete list of all you need to know.
Denver, Colorado
This western U.S. state has beautiful landscapes consisting of humid deserts, snow-covered mountains, and gorgeous landscapes. Colorado also boasts top schools, such as the University of Colorado Boulder and Colorado State University. Some of the main points of interest include:
- Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
- The Rocky Mountain National Park
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- The Mesa Verde National Park
San Diego
How can you go wrong with a city in “The Golden State,” located on the Pacific coast of California, which is widely known for its sunny, warm climate and many beaches? This city, now known as San Diego, was established on July 16, 1769, with a dedication to the Mission San Diego de Alcala, the first of more than 20 California missions. Some additional main points of interest include:
- San Diego Harbor
- San Diego Zoo
- Sea World San Diego
- Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade
- Petco Park
Cost of Living
The cost of living is defined as the amount of money needed to pay for necessary expenses that help maintain a particular lifestyle standard in a specific place. Usually, the cost of living is a key deciding factor when moving to a new town. Why? Because if you’re moving to get more value for your dollar, you’ll want to move to an area where daily living is less expensive. Factors that determine the cost of living include such expenses as housing, food, taxes, health care, entertainment, clothing, and education.
Cost of Living in Colorado
Unfortunately, Colorado is considered to have one of the highest costs of living, and many people report not being able to maintain their lifestyles there. Over the last 50 years, earned wages have remained the same while rental costs and home sales have more than doubled. Housing prices have increased by more than 134%, resulting in median homes selling for more than $500,000. Between 2010-2020, 40% fewer homes were built than in 2000-2010, which leaves supply levels dangerously low. Here are some interesting statistics about the cost of living in Colorado for one person versus a family of four.
One person:
- Rent – $2098
- Without rent – $789
- Utilities & rent – $1307
- Transportation – $84.4
- Food – $582
Family of four:
- Rent – $4870
- Without Rent – $2582
- Utilities & rent – $2247
- Transportation – $223
- Food – $1463
The Colorado cost of living is $2098, which is approximately 1.09 times more expensive than the average in the U.S. Additionally, Colorado is ranked the 14th most expensive state. However, it is also ranked as the 12th best state to live in the U.S. After taxes. The average salary comes to $4450, which is enough to cover the cost of living for just over two months.
As of 2022, the population of Colorado (Denver, specifically) is 2,898 million people, which is a 1.23% increase from the prior year. In 2020, Denver had a crime rate (479.3 per 100,000 people) which was higher than the national rate. It also had a higher rate of property crime.
Denver has a diversified economy and is just one of the colorful city’s many strengths. The various industry sectors include broadcast and telecommunications, financial services, energy, I.T. software, aerospace, and bioscience. Other popular industries include tourism, machinery, and transportation equipment. The state of Colorado was the 16th largest in the U.S., with a gross state product of slightly over $421 billion. In 2019, the Colorado’s personal income (per capita) was $61,187, making it the 12th in the nation.
Like Denver, San Diego has a diversified economy. In 2021, the gross domestic product of California was approximately 3.35 trillion. This number indicates that it contributed the most of any state in the U.S.’s GDP during that year. Texas, New York, and Florida held second, third, and fourth places. Three significant sectors make up San Diego’s economy; tourism, defense, and innovation.
If you’re looking to move outside of Denver, here is a listing of other top cities to consider.
The Best Cities to Live in Colorado
- Ft. Collins
- Colorado Springs
- Lakewood
- Westminster
- Parker
- Littleton
- Centennial
- Northglenn
- Highlands Ranch
- Commerce
- Boulder
- Thornton
- Arvada
- Aurora
Cost of Living in San Diego
The cost of living in San Diego is 5% higher than California’s average and 48% higher than the national average. San Diego housing is 120% more expensive than the national average, and utilities are approximately 20%-22% pricier. The average monthly cost for a family of four is roughly $3,942 without rent. A single person runs an average monthly cost of $1,083 without rent. The median salary is $63,780, and the median home price is approximately $800,000.
As of 2022, the population of San Diego is 3,297 million people, which is a 0.8% increase from the prior year. In 2020, the national crime rate (345.8 per 100,000 people) in San Diego was higher than the national rate.
The average cost of food in San Diego
- Milk – $2.19
- Bread – $$4.66
- Local cheese – $12.13
- Apples – $4.59
- Onion – $2.45
- Chicken Fillets – $16.37
- Lettuce – $1.66
- Eggs – $3.72
- Potato – $3.09
The average cost of healthcare in San Diego
- Optometrist’s visit – $115.00
- Doctor’s visit – $131.27
- Dentist’s visit – $$105.00
The Best 15 Neighborhoods to Live in San Diego
- Pacific Highlands Ranch
- Solana Beach
- Mission Valley
- Carlsbad
- Hillcrest
- Torrey Pines
- Downtown San Diego
- Little Italy
- Coronado
- East Village
- La Jolla
- Chula Vista
- North Park
- South Park
- Gaslamp Quarter
*The places on this list have a lower crime rate making them safer neighborhoods.
Denver vs. San Diego- Which Has the Better Job Market?
Most likely, if you are opting to move to San Diego or prefer to stay in Denver, the job market is probably an important reason. With unemployment rates increasing in some areas, not only do you want to find (or keep) a good job, you want to make sure the job is the right fit for you.
Denver, Colorado Job Stats
The national average annual salary is $56,472. In Denver, the average yearly wage is $64,890, which is slightly higher than the national average. In 2021, the national average unemployment rate was 8.7%. In Denver, the unemployment rate came in at 8.4%, which was slightly lower.
The 10 best jobs in Denver if you don’t have a degree
- Private Chef – average salary $60,187 per year
- Videographer – average salary $60, 993 per year
- Surveyor – average salary $60.442 per year
- Videographer- average salary $60,583 per year
- Property Manager – average salary $60, 563 per year
- CNC Mill Operator – average salary $61,198 per year
- HVAC Technician – average salary 62,574 per year
- Lending Officer- average salary 62,475 per year
- Creative Services Director – $61,493 per year
- Audiovisual Engineer – $61,873 per year
San Diego, California Job Stats
In San Diego, 5.4% of people were unemployed, which is a 0.7% rate lower than L.A. County unemployment, which holds steady at 6.0%. The average salary in San Diego is $69,380 annually, which averages out to approximately $33/hour. This amount equals approximately $1,300 per week or $5,700 per month. Most salaries range between $51,550 to $84,073.
The top 8 salaries in the medical field in San Diego
- Hematology Oncology Physician
- Hematologist Oncologist
- Orthopedic Surgeon
- Urologist
- Emergency Medicine
- Anesthesiologist
- Neuroradiologist
- Diagnostic Radiologist
Denver vs. San Diego Nightlife-Which is better for you?
If you’re moving to a new town, nightlife and entertainment may also be a deciding factor. Both places offer low-key activities for chill nights or, if you prefer, higher-energy forms of entertainment.
Denver Social Scene
With its vibrant city colors, Denver offers extensive nightlife options. The city that used to close up at 5:00 pm is now a host to late-night lounges, breweries, chic wineries, dance clubs, and a growing number of cocktail lounges. Here are some of the hottest spots to visit.
- Grizzly Rose: This honky-tonk, country, and western bar has live music six days a week. Feel like some line dancing? It also has a 2,500-square-foot floating dance floor.
- Five Nines: This dark, intimate bar is perfect with its tasteful erotic dancers and performers. Great for couples or single people looking to enjoy after-dinner drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
- Williams & Graham: A sophisticated speakeasy is perfect for cocktail lovers. If you’re looking for top-shelf drinks creatively mixed, it’s the go-to hot spot in the Highlands neighborhood.
- La Rumba: Whether learning to rumba or a seasoned professional, this popular hangout spot is prime for all Latin dance lovers. La Rumba transports you to Little Havana when they showcase Denver’s top salsas orchestras. The dress code is casual but chic.
- Death & Co Denver: This hip hot spot in The Ramble Hotel is reminiscent of New York’s chic social scene. This delightful place offers beer, cider, wine, and of course, delicious fancy cocktails.
San Diego Social Scene
Whether inside or outside, San Diego has the perfect weather for entertaining nightlife. After a hard week of work, check out some of the city’s hottest bars.
- Bottled Blonde: Located in the hub of San Diego’s art scene, this exciting venue offers picnic-style seating where you can enjoy a delicious, made-to-order pizza. The pub transforms into an evening nightclub where you’ll enjoy your favorite tunes.
- Fluxx: Located in Downtown San Diego, this high-end, unique nightclub constantly changes depending on the crowd’s mood. The dress code is sleek and stylish, and you can spend the night at a VIP table consuming your preferred wine and cocktails.
- Rooftop by STK: This newly refurbished spot has been rebranded to include a poolside lounge with stunning views. Enjoy specialty cocktails and divine dishes from a menu created by top chefs.
- Oxford Social Club: Inside the Pendry San Diego h
otel, this club is San Diego’s finest spot for listening to the D.J. spin the latest tunes while sipping on your favorite cocktail. - Prohibition: No reservations needed or accepted. To enjoy a night out on the town, simply show up and knock on the door marked Law Office of Eddie O’Hare. Prohibition is a hip speakeasy joint with a 1920s vibe (Think Great Gatsby). Fully enforced dress code on Friday and Saturday, so don’t bother showing up with sleeveless Tees and flip-flops.
Food, Food, and More Food-Top Restaurants
Another huge part of relocation is finding the best places to eat. The good news is that both Denver and San Diego offer great food choices. However, depending on your specific taste, one city may edge out the other.
Top 3 Eating Spots in Denver
- Tavernetta: Upscale restaurant specializing in Italian cuisine with an acclaimed team to serve you in a fireplace lounge.
- Spuntinor: A superior restaurant serving high-end Italian cuisine, homemade bread, and delicious wine.
- Guard and Grace: This modern steakhouse serves delicious steak and other specialties alongside fine wine inside a classic airy space. Dine-in or curbside available.
Other delicious restaurants in the Denver area include:
- Corinne Restaurant
- The Capital Grille
- Avelina
- Guard and Grace
- Mercantile Dining and Provision
- Root Down
Top 3 Places to Eat in San Diego
- Addison Restaurant: Two-star Michelin restaurant that showcases gastronomy. Dishes use local vendors’ fresh, Californian ingredients and an extensive wine list to suit the most eclectic of tastes.
- La Bonne Table: Specializing in French cuisine, La Bonne Table is located at the center of the Hillcrest neighborhood. This cozy yet chic lounge contains a full bar inside its elegant design.
- Parc Bistro-Brasserie: This popular hot spot specializes in seafood with a twist because of its take on delicious French dishes. Additionally, you can enjoy an excellent wine menu while relaxing on a heated outdoor patio.
Other delicious restaurants to visit in the San Diego area include:
- Puesto La Jolla
- Raised by Wolves
- Seneca
- Season-Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara
- Rosina’s Italian Restaurant
- Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub
Denver vs. San Diego: Climate Change
The varying climate in each area may be why you’re looking to relocate. For example, while Denver is known for its cold, rocky mountains, San Diego is the opposite with its sunny, bright, beautiful beachy days. Here are some climate statistics to check out.
Denver climate
The Denver, Colorado area has a mid-arid 4-season environment with some mild temperatures and almost 300 days of annual sunshine. While winter storms frequently occur in Denver, they are generally short-lived, and the snow melts quickly. However, for skiers, nearby mountains get plenty of annual snowfall.
For example, the cold season lasts approximately 3.7 months, starting mid-December and ending in early March, with a daily high temperature of 54° F. The coldest month of the year is December, with an average low of 23°F and a high of 47°F.
The Best Time for Activities in Denver, Colorado
Many flock to Denver for its excellent skiing ventures, so if you’re looking for an exciting wintry experience, February is the best time to visit. This time of year is when the snow is at its deepest, and plenty more snow is still falling. Also, during this time, the mountains are completely open, so there will be plenty of ground to cover for your ski adventure.
Along with skiing, Denver, you can also partake in many other activities, including:
- Ziplining
- Small group tours
- Red Rocks Park
- Rocky Mountain escape
- Twilight Ghost Tour
- Railway and garden tours
- Hiking adventures
- Downtown Denver food tour
- Craft beer tours
- 1.5-hour walking tours through Denver
San Diego Climate
In San Diego, summers are short, hot, and clear. The winters tend to be long, cool, and cloudy. The month with the highest humidity is July (77.34%), and the lowest is November (68.74%). February has the highest number of rainy days (6.6), while August has the lowest (0.18).
The warmest month in San Diego is August, with an average daily temperature of 70.4°F. On average, January is the coldest month, with an average daily temperature of 55.4°F.
The Best Time for Activities in San Diego
The best time to visit San Diego is summertime, when you can take advantage of the beautiful beaches. However, late summer, specifically September, has the best weather and warmer ocean temperatures. Late summer also sees fewer tourists, so you’ll have more availability for the city’s attractions. Along with the San Diego Zoo, other top interests include:
- San Diego Premier Dinner Cruise
- Whale Watching Tour
- Sunset Sailing Experience
- San Diego Seal Tour
- San Diego Scenic Tour
- Tijuana Day Trip
- Yacht Sailing Experience
- 2-hour GoCar Tour
Should You Make the Move from San Diego to Colorado?
Whether you decide to remain in Denver or move to San Diego, there are many options regarding the exact location of interest. You’ll want to consider the cost of living and the economy. If you don’t already have a job, you’ll need to also think about the best types of jobs for your skillset. If the move is not for you now, keep updated because you never know what the future holds. If you are ready to take the leap, let DTC Movers assist you with your new and exciting journey. Happy Moving!
