Denver vs. Austin

When it comes to choosing between Denver and Austin, there’s a lot to consider. Both cities, each with its own flair and lifestyle waiting to be explored, have a distinctive charm. Whether you’re considering a potential move or planning an upcoming visit, understanding what these locales have to offer is key.

Denver, surrounded by the breathtaking Rockies, and Austin, proudly embracing its ‘Keep Austin Weird’ ethos, have diverse cultural scenes, economic opportunities, and recreational offerings. We’ll uncover the unique qualities that make each of these capital cities shine, helping you navigate the decision between these two dynamic urban landscapes.

Overview of Living in Denver vs. Austin

 

Denver and Austin Similarities

Denver and Austin share striking similarities. Both cities are capital cities of their respective states and have booming tech industries. Both attract creative minds and are recognized for their arts and music scenes, which fosters a lively cultural atmosphere. Outdoor enthusists thrive in both cities, wtih easy access to the natural wonders of the Rocky Mountains in Denver and the Texas Hill Country in Austin. Denver and Austin are magnets for those seeking a mix of innovation, culture and an active lifestyle.

Life in Denver

Originally a mining town, Denver was founded during the gold rush. The city has made a lot of progress since its wild west days.  

Today, life in Denver offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. Denverites are an easy-going, nature-loving bunch with a progressive mindset. Denver is located at the base of the Rocky Mountains and has an elevation of over 5,200 feet, earning the nickname “The Mile High City”. The city’s proximity to the Rockies has resulted in residents who are ambitious about their fitness and always looking for ways to embark on outdoor recreation.

Life in Austin

Austin is one of the four major metropolitan areas in the state. Located in the Texas Hill Country, Austin is full of residents who are both easy-going and hard-working, progressive and creative. The city is home to the University of Texas and the Texas State Capitol, both of which attract residents from different walks of life. As the city is built among the hills, Austinites take every opportunity to get outdoors, and with a robust live-music scene, residents can easily enjoy exciting happenings in the performing arts realm. 

 

Population of Denver vs. Population of Austin

 

Denver Population

Denver has seen a huge population boom in the last decade with most residents being out-of-state transplants. Denver’s metro population is 2.85 million and over 700,000 residents within Denver proper. Denver spans 154 square miles. 

Austin Population

Like Denver, Austin has seen a huge influx of residents. In 2020 Austin surpassed one million residents in Austin proper and over 2.2 million in the greater Austin area. Austin is significantly larger than Denver, spanning over 272 square miles. 

 

Activities in Denver vs. Activities in Austin

Both Denver and Austin are unique places to live full of entertaining activities, easy-going residents, and collaborative cultures. No matter which city you choose, you can’t go wrong. 

Things to Do in Denver

Each year, Denver rakes in more than $17 million in hospitality due to the hordes of tourists flocking to the area. And it’s no wonder why. The city offers residents and visitors plenty to do. Larimer Square, a historic area within Denver, is a must-see in the area. Originally the site of a pioneer camp in the 1850s, it now buzzes with life and is home to numerous restaurants, shops, and nightlife venues. 

 Just south of downtown Denver is Washington Park, where locals take visitors when they are trying to show Denver off. With over 165 acres boasting of tree-lined paths, lush green meadows, stunning gardens (one of which is a replica of George Washington’s garden in Mount Vernon), and two not-to-be-missed lakes, it stands out as one of the most beloved parks in the area.  

For beer lovers, Denver is spoiled rotten with breweries. With over 140 breweries, there is no shortage of craft beer waiting to be sampled. Try the Great Divide Brewing Company, one of the older breweries in Denver – it serves a wide variety of balanced, flavorful beers representative of the best of Colorado. Or try the award-winning Cerebral Brewing, where the menu regularly rotates, and they focus on creating extremely drinkable beers spanning a broad spectrum of styles.  

Things to Do in Austin

Set among the beautiful hills of Texas, Austin is a city built around outdoor recreation. At every corner, there is a park, hiking trail, or swimming hole. With Austin’s favorable weather, residents can enjoy these activities year-round. Austin’s most frequented park, Zilker Park, sits just across the river from downtown Austin. Zilker Park is home to some of the city’s most loved attractions – Barton Springs Pool, Zilker Park Disc Golf Course, and the Zilker Park Botanical Gardens. It is also where the city hosts Austin City Limits each year. 

 To better understand Austin’s motto “Keep Austin Weird”, visit the SOCO District, short for South Congress. Attracting tourists and locals alike, this area specializes in unique boutiques, retro clothing stores, and excellent eateries. 

Moving to Denver vs. Moving to Austin

Both Denver and Austin are unique places to live, full of entertaining activities, easy-going residents, and collaborative cultures. No matter which city you choose, you can’t go wrong. 

Life at Lakeside

Lakeside at Tessera, located in Lago Vista, Texas, offers beautiful homes close to Austin, yet set among the quiet of the Texas Hill Country. Contact us today for more info.