Appreciation Investing in Denver, CO
Data-driven appreciation analysis for Denver, CO — score breakdown, key investment metrics, and how it compares to other markets.
Last updated: May 2026
Score Breakdown
Key Metrics for Appreciation
Pop. Growth
+6.5%
Strong
Median Income
$91,681
Household income
Vacancy Rate
6.5%
Moderate supply
Population
714K
Metro demand indicator
Appreciation Investment Thesis
Denver offers strong tenant quality with high median incomes and low vacancy. New supply has moderated rent growth in 2025-2026, creating potential value for patient investors who can weather the cycle.
How Denver Compares
| Rank | City | Appreciation Score | Cap Rate | Median Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #13 | Atlanta, GA | 5.6 | 5.9% | $320,000 |
| #14 | Tampa, FL | 5.6 | 5.5% | $350,000 |
| #15 | Houston, TX | 5.5 | 6.3% | $265,000 |
| #16 | Denver, CO | 5.5 | 4.4% | $525,000 |
| #17 | Columbus, OH | 5.4 | 6.8% | $240,000 |
| #18 | Minneapolis, MN | 5.4 | 6.1% | $295,000 |
| #19 | San Antonio, TX | 5.2 | 6.5% | $250,000 |
Showing markets ranked near Denver for this strategy.
Quick Math: Estimated Annual Return
Based on median market data. Your actual returns will vary based on specific property, financing, and management costs. Always run your own analysis before investing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the appreciation score for Denver, CO?
Denver, CO scores 5.5 out of 10 on our appreciation score, ranking #16 out of 52 markets we track. Weighted composite: population growth (40%), median household income (25%), low vacancy (20%), metro size/demand (15%). Scale 0–10.
Is Denver a good city for appreciation investing?
Denver, CO ranks #16 for appreciation investing — a solid mid-tier market with a score of 5.5/10. The median home price is $525,000 with a 4.4% average cap rate.
What is the average cap rate in Denver?
The average cap rate in Denver, CO is 4.4%. The median home price is $525,000 with a median monthly rent of $1,900, resulting in a rent-to-price ratio of 0.36%.
What are the property taxes in Denver?
The effective property tax rate in Denver, CO is 0.51%. On a $525,000 property, that translates to approximately $2,678 per year in property taxes.
How does Denver compare to other appreciation markets?
Among our 52 tracked markets, Denver, CO ranks #16 for appreciation investing. It falls in the middle of the pack for this strategy.
What is driving population growth in Denver?
Denver, CO has a 5-year population growth rate of +6.5% and a median household income of $91,681. Strong job growth and migration trends are fueling above-average population increases, which typically correlates with sustained home price appreciation.
Run Your Own Numbers for Denver
Use our free calculators pre-filled with Denver, CO market data, or adjust the numbers for your specific deal.
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