Lured by outdoor opportunities, healthy living, and booming cannabis, technology, and tourism industries, many Americans are relocating to the Centennial State. At the same time, the high cost of living is forcing some longtime Coloradans out.
Denver (Photo: Jen Hunter via Flickr/ CC BY 2.0)
Denver is known as the Mile High City because its altitude is exactly 5,280 feet—one mile—high. According to the Denver Post, Denver experienced a 20 percent population growth from 2010–2020. It’s easy to see why: its location along the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains provides access to some of the best skiing, climbing, hiking, and river rafting in North America. The city alone has more than 200 public parks, not to mention the vast Open Space system that branches far into the suburbs.
With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, it’s hard to believe it also gets roughly 50 inches of snow. But don’t worry: low humidity and sunshine mean it rarely sticks around for long, except in the high country.
If you’re into sports, you’ll have plenty of professional teams to cheer on including the Broncos (football), Rockies (baseball) Avalanche (hockey), Nuggets (basketball), and Rockies (soccer).
If you are moving to Denver, it’s best to visit several times before your move to get a feel for the city’s many distinct areas and neighborhoods. Downtown is vibrant and walkable, but parking is sparse and expensive. Areas such as Capitol Hill and Washington Park are filled with landmarks, young people, and interesting locally-owned businesses, while the suburbs (of which there are many) each have their own vibe.
While Denver has a lot going for it, it does have some downsides, including a higher cost of living (about 12 percent) than the rest of the U.S. This is driven by exorbitant rent prices which average one third higher than the rest of the nation, so be aware that housing will likely require a significant portion of your income. Realizing they can get more house for their money elsewhere—and disenfranchised by the rapid influx of residents without a clear plan for affordable housing—some Denverites are looking to relocate. Like anywhere, there is good and bad about living here.
Below, we’ve highlighted five of the best Denver moving companies that can help with your Denver move, whether that’s across the country or the next town over.
Trico Long Distance Movers
In business since 2010, Trico Long distance Movers offers a variety of services that can take you straight from your old doorstep to your new home in Denver. Among them: Commercial and residential moves, auto transport, packing, and storage. They also offer wooden crating for valuable or fragile items such as artwork. Trico also provides a full list of bar coded inventory and provides you with a copy. Prices depend on the distance and services you choose, but once locked in, there are no hidden charges or fees. Once your items are in transit, you can track them using an app on your phone. We loved this website due to its streamlined look that is easily navigable, robust FAQ section, and the fact that they offer several ways to initiate contact—a form, a direct phone number, and a business email address. There’s even an informative blog that features topics such as space saving advice, tips for moving to a new home, and more.
Cross Country Movers Group
Based in Culver City, California, Cross Country Movers Group specializes in moves to Denver from the Golden State. They offer complete moving services from packing (including materials), disassembling furniture, and loading to auto transport and storage on either end of the move. Each move is customized for you, meaning that you pay for only the services you need. In addition to residential and auto transport services, they also offer corporate relocation services which help employers relocate entire offices—and their employees—safely and efficiently. Cross Country Movers group has a presence in most major cities and metropolitan areas, and customers can contact representatives by phone, email, or the contact form on their website.
Abe Lincoln Movers, LLC
This top-rated Colorado company has more than 20 years of experience in the moving industry and boasts several business honors and awards—after all, they aren’t named after “Honest Abe” Lincoln for nothing. Local moves are their specialty, so if you’re relocating from nearby, this is an excellent option and you’d be supporting your future neighbors! This small business employs full-time movers who undergo professional training and are dedicated to their craft and providing excellent customer service. They can handle moving jobs of every scope, including residential and corporate relocations. They also specialize in relocating elders to senior living facilities and handling heavy, difficult-to-manage pieces such as pianos, hot-tubs, and chandeliers. Once the booking process is secured, you’re provided with a straightforward quote and don’t worry: there are no hidden fees or costly surprises, just like Honest Abe would have wanted it.
Moving Brothers
Another locally-owned company is Moving Brothers. With more than 12 years in the business, they are well-established and have a good reputation. Specializing in the Greater Denver and Boulder areas, they don’t offer storage, but if you‘re simply moving from town to town, that’s typically not an issue and there are many storage facilities in the area. We appreciated that Moving Brothers lists general rates on their website, which are based on two movers and a two-hour minimum. From there, you can add extra movers and time if needed. All trucks include 100 pads, plastic wrap, ropes, tape, a hand truck, and other moving equipment. Best of all, if you get caught slipping on the packing front, never fear: they can step in where you left off and get the job done. They also have an entire page dedicated to moving tips that help customers prepare for their arrival and ensure that all your precious belongings make it to your final destination in one piece.
American Van Lines
In business since 1967, American Van Lines is one of the oldest and most trusted relocation services providers in the U.S. But don’t confuse old with outdated: the reason they stay thought leaders in the industry is because they know how to change and adapt with the times. In addition to a dedicated toll-free number, they have an emergency line and a live chat feature to help customers at any hour of the day. In addition, they have a clear and transparent sustainability plan listed on their website. They offer both residential and commercial long-distance moves, and often assist military families and those looking to move antiques, art, and other valuable items. Their website is filled with pages of tips, reviews, and other resources. If you’re looking for a dependable, authoritative brand you know you can trust, this is it.