Cheapest Cities to Rent in Colorado (2026)
The cheapest rent in Colorado is in Colorado Springs, CO, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,735/mo and a 1-bedroom $1,464/mo (2026 HUD Fair Market Rent) — $177/mo below the Colorado average 2BR of $1,912. The table below ranks all 2 of the cheapest cities to rent in Colorado.
$1,735
Cheapest 2BR
$1,912
State Average 2BR
$177
Monthly Savings
$2,124
Yearly Savings
Top 2 Cheapest Cities in Colorado
Ranked by 2-bedroom rent price (lowest first)
| Rank | City | Studio | 1 Bed | 2 Bed | 3 Bed | Income Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Colorado Springs, CO | $1,196 | $1,464 | $1,735 | $2,413 | $69,400/yr |
#2 | Denver, CO | $1,643 | $1,754 | $2,089 | $2,734 | $83,560/yr |
Why These Colorado Cities Are Affordable
Colorado's affordability has decreased as population growth outpaced housing supply. Denver and Boulder command premium prices, while Colorado Springs and smaller cities offer better value.
- Below-average housing costs: These cities have housing indices lower than the state average of 115
- Lower demand: Smaller populations and less competitive markets keep prices reasonable
- Diverse housing stock: Mix of older and newer buildings provides options at various price points
- Regional economies: Local job markets support working populations without coastal-city premiums
Income Requirements
Using the standard 30% of income guideline, here's what you need to earn to afford rent in Colorado's cheapest cities:
#1: Colorado Springs
2BR: $1,735/mo requires $69,400/year
#2: Denver
2BR: $2,089/mo requires $83,560/year
How Colorado's Cheapest Cities Compare
vs State Average
-$177/mo
cheaper than Colorado average
vs National Average
+$335/mo
more expensive than US average
Cost of Living Index
105
Above national average (100)
What to Consider Before Moving
Best For
- ✓Outdoor enthusiasts
- ✓Tech professionals
- ✓Young professionals
- ✓Ski enthusiasts
Considerations
- •High altitude adjustment
- •Competitive rental market
- •Rising costs