State to State Economies: Tampa vs. Denver – Which City Balances Lifestyle and Cost in 2025?
Thinking of Relocating? Tampa vs. Denver: The 2025 Economic Showdown
Table of Contents
- 1. Why Tampa and Denver Are Trending in 2025
- 2. Housing Costs Breakdown
- 3. Monthly Living Cost Estimates
- 4. Groceries and Dining
- 5. Utilities and Internet Access
- 6. Transportation Costs
- 7. Healthcare Expenses
- 8. Taxes and Local Fees
- 9. Lifestyle & Leisure: What You Get for the Extras
- 10. Summary: Which City Comes Out On Top?
- 11. Explore Zip Code Data with CompaniesByZipcode.com
- 12. Coming Next Week
1. Why Tampa and Denver Are Trending in 2025
Tampa is becoming popular for digital nomads, startup founders, and retirees due to low taxes, sunshine, and affordable housing. Florida’s third-largest city has seen growth over 2.3% this year.
Meanwhile, Denver attracts outdoor enthusiasts, tech professionals, and remote workers with job opportunities in tech, healthcare, and green energy. It’s evolving into a modern, livable city.
2. Housing Costs Breakdown
Housing is a significant expense. Here’s how Tampa and Denver compare:
| Housing Costs | Tampa, FL | Denver, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $375,000 | $565,000 |
| Average Rent (1 BR Apartment, City Center) | $1,780 | $2,150 |
| Average Rent (3 BR Apartment, Suburbs) | $2,300 | $2,950 |
| Property Tax Rate | 0.86% | 0.49% |
| Homeowner’s Insurance (Avg. Annual) | $2,000 | $1,500 |
Key Insight: Tampa offers more affordable housing options, making it appealing for families and first-time buyers despite typically lower salaries compared to Denver.
3. Monthly Living Cost Estimates
Breakdown of total living costs for a single adult and a family of four in both cities:
| Category | Single Person (Tampa) | Single Person (Denver) | Family of 4 (Tampa) | Family of 4 (Denver) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,780 | $2,150 | $2,300 | $2,950 |
| Groceries | $380 | $440 | $950 | $1,120 |
| Dining Out | $250 | $300 | $700 | $800 |
| Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet) | $210 | $235 | $320 | $390 |
| Transportation | $200 | $280 | $600 | $800 |
| Healthcare | $300 | $370 | $1,100 | $1,400 |
| Childcare | N/A | N/A | $850 | $1,250 |
| Entertainment/Fitness | $200 | $270 | $500 | $620 |
| Monthly Total | $3,320 | $4,045 | $7,320 | $9,330 |
What You Get for $3,000/Month: In Tampa, $3,000 covers rent, transportation, groceries, and some leisure. In Denver, this amount falls short of core expenses, especially within city limits.
4. Groceries and Dining
| Item | Tampa Average Price | Denver Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| Gallon of Milk | $3.80 | $3.90 |
| Bread (Loaf) | $2.90 | $3.25 |
| Dozen Eggs | $2.95 | $3.50 |
| Meal at Mid-Range Restaurant | $60 (for 2) | $75 (for 2) |
| Coffee (Café) | $4.25 | $5.50 |
Insight: Dining out is more expensive in Denver due to higher rent overheads and demand in trendy neighborhoods.
5. Utilities and Internet Access
| Utilities (Per Month) | Tampa | Denver |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity + Water (standard apartment) | $150 | $180 |
| Internet (High-Speed) | $60 | $65 |
Tampa’s warmer climate results in lower heating costs, while Denver sees higher bills, especially during winter.
6. Transportation Costs
Transportation costs:
| Transportation Mode | Tampa | Denver |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Public Transit Pass | $65 | $114 |
| Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.45 | $3.80 |
| Ride Share (5-mile ride avg.) | $13 | $17 |
| Car Insurance (Monthly Avg.) | $155 | $140 |
Key Takeaway: Tampa relies more on car ownership, while Denver offers a more extensive public transit system.
7. Healthcare Expenses
| Healthcare Cost (Monthly Avg.) | Tampa | Denver |
|---|---|---|
| Doctor Visit | $120 | $150 |
| Monthly Health Insurance (Individual) | $300 | $370 |
| Dental Cleaning | $110 | $135 |
Healthcare costs are higher in Denver due to increased demand and infrastructure needs.
8. Taxes and Local Fees
| Tax Type | Tampa (FL) | Denver (CO) |
|---|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 0% | 4.4% |
| Sales Tax | 7.5% | 8.81% |
| Property Tax Rate | 0.86% | 0.49% |
| Vehicle Registration Fees | $46/year | $63/year on average |
Tax Advantage: Tampa’s lack of state income tax benefits remote workers, freelancers, and retirees. Denver imposes a notable 4.4% income tax.
9. Lifestyle & Leisure: What You Get for the Extras
Tampa Lifestyle Perks:
- Proximity to top-rated beaches (Clearwater, St. Pete)
- Active retiree and startup scene
- Family-focused neighborhoods with community events
- Year-round outdoor fitness activities
Denver Lifestyle Perks:
- Access to mountains and outdoor adventures
- Booming craft beer and live music scenes
- Growing tech and green energy job market
- Excellent schools in suburban areas
Surprising Fact: Tampa is emerging as a tech startup hub due to lower costs and tax advantages, ranking among the top cities for entrepreneurs in 2025.
10. Summary: Which City Comes Out On Top?
| Criteria | Winner |
|---|---|
| Housing Affordability | Tampa |
| Career Opportunities | Denver |
| Remote Worker Savings | Tampa |
| Outdoor Recreation | Denver |
| Tax Friendliness | Tampa |
| Family Costs (Childcare, Healthcare) | Tampa |
| Young Professional Lifestyle | Denver |
Consider your priorities:
- Tampa: Save money, work remotely, and enjoy sunny weather.
- Denver: Thrive in a progressive job market, vibrant city culture, and mountain landscapes.
11. Explore Zip Code Data with CompaniesByZipcode.com
Before moving, explore ZIP-code-level data on schools, jobs, amenities, and more at CompaniesByZipcode.com. Compare areas like Downtown Tampa (33602) and Central Park, Denver (80238) easily.
Discover:
- Median home values
- Local business data
- Community amenities
- Commute times
12. Coming Next Week
Get ready for the next showdown: Coastal Living Showdown — San Diego vs. Miami: Who Wins the Sunshine State of Mind?
Thinking of moving? Compare ZIP codes for insights at CompaniesByZipcode.com—your relocation partner.