Author Topic: Move from San Francisco to Denver  (Read 1272 times)

wealthviahealth

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Move from San Francisco to Denver
« on: June 24, 2019, 07:35:18 AM »
Have an upcoming move from SF to Denver, was curious to learn about other folk's experiences doing the same.
I ended up finding an apt that was not nearly as cheap as I had hoped for ( about the same as what I pay in SF)  but is 10x better than my current dwellings.
Did you notice a significant increase in your paycheck from the change in tax rate/ lower overall expenses in Denver vs SF?

NorCal

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Re: Move from San Francisco to Denver
« Reply #1 on: June 24, 2019, 11:39:16 AM »
Congrats on the move!  I made the same move last summer.  My general observations on prices:

1. Most transplants end up paying about the same for housing, but getting a much nicer place.  This is probably deeply rooted in our natural anchoring bias.  I did the same.

2. You save roughly 5% of salary on taxes.  This is very nice, but not particularly life changing.  What I notice more is the improved level of government services in Denver compared to the Bay Area.  The parks are nicer, city services are MUCH better, roads are better, etc.  Even trash pickup is included in your taxes within Denver.  Sales tax is about the same.

3. Check out the city-run rec centers.  Some are equivalent to high-end Bay Area gyms, but they cost ~$200/ year instead of ~$150/month.  Also be sure to get your library card.  You get discounts and free access to a surprising number of things with your library card.

4. Prices for most other things are pretty comparable to Bay Area prices, with some notable exceptions.  Gas is cheaper, as is fresh produce and dairy.

wealthviahealth

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Re: Move from San Francisco to Denver
« Reply #2 on: June 24, 2019, 12:05:17 PM »
@NorCal Thanks for all of the helpful info!
I swore that I would not fall victim to the anchoring trap but my short time frame for scoping places out ( was only in Den for 2 days) and the allure of the sudden access to a nice place got the best of me.
Viewing my first year as an investment in my success in a new city ( my apt has all sorts of previously unimaginable amenities) and in great place to meet new people/enjoy my hobbies. Will plan on moving further out of the city/ much cheaper place in year 2 after getting some roots established.

 

Wow, a phone plan for fifteen bucks!