Why Buying in Denver Still Outshines Renting (Even with Rents Dropping)

Over the past few months, I’ve had more than a few conversations that start the same way:

“Randy, with rents dropping in Denver, is now really the time to buy?”

It’s a fair question. Average rents across Denver are down roughly 6% year-over-year, and the rental market is flooded with excess inventory—largely from properties that didn’t sell during last year’s shifting market and have now entered the rental pool. At the same time, buyer demand feels steady but not frenzied, and inventory on the for-sale side is up compared to last spring.

So, why would anyone buy? The short answer: long-term financial advantage, lifestyle stability, and opportunity.

1. The Rental “Discount” Isn’t What It Seems

Sure, rents are dipping—but they’re dipping off record highs. Even with a 6% decrease, Denver remains one of the more expensive rental markets in the Mountain West. That means a one-bedroom apartment in a desirable area like LoDo, Cherry Creek, or the Highlands is still commanding anywhere from $2,000 to $2,800 a month.

And while that might feel more palatable than last year, every rent payment is money you’ll never see again—while buying builds equity and appreciation potential, especially in neighborhoods that are still experiencing consistent demand (think Hilltop, Central Park, and Sloan’s Lake).

2. Inventory = Options

For buyers, the current market offers something we haven’t seen in years: choice.

Inventory in Denver is hovering at over 6 months—a balanced market that gives you breathing room to tour homes, negotiate favorable terms, and avoid the frantic bidding wars of 2021–2022.

This also applies to lock-and-leave luxury properties—condos and townhomes in neighborhoods like Cherry Creek North and Riverfront Park—where empty nesters and professionals are taking advantage of increased availability to make smarter, lifestyle-driven moves.

3. Leverage, Not Panic: Mortgage Rates Aren’t Forever

Yes, rates have hovered around 6.8% to 7% recently, but here’s the thing:

• Home prices in several segments have already softened to reflect buyer hesitancy.
• You can always refinance when rates drop—but you can’t go back and buy at today’s prices if the market rebounds.

Historically, Denver has shown resilience: even through downturns, long-term appreciation trends have outpaced many comparable metro areas.

4. Lifestyle Matters

If you’re drawn to Denver for its mountain proximity, art scene, breweries, and active lifestyle, owning gives you the ability to truly plant roots in your favorite neighborhood.

From mid-century gems in Sloan’s Lake to historic lofts in LoDo to modern new builds in Central Park, owning a home here isn’t just about square footage—it’s about connecting with a community and building a future that aligns with your lifestyle.

5. Renting is Reacting. Buying is Strategizing.

Renting might feel like flexibility—but it also leaves you vulnerable to rising rents, lease restrictions, and limited control over your living space. Buying, on the other hand, allows you to control your costs, personalize your space, and benefit from long-term appreciation in a city that continues to attract new talent and investment.

The Bottom Line

Denver’s market is shifting—but it’s not collapsing. In fact, it’s providing one of the best opportunities we’ve seen in years for buyers who want negotiating power, selection, and future equity.

If you’ve been on the fence about buying versus renting, this might be your signal to explore what’s out there.

Curious about your options?
I’d be happy to walk you through neighborhoods, price points, and strategies tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you’re ready to buy now or simply want to understand where you stand, let’s connect.

📍 Randy Burgess | Coldwell Banker Global Luxury
@livingat5280 | livingat5280.com