Here’s How Much Gen Z Will Spend on Rent in Colorado Before Hitting 30

As Generation Z marches deeper into adulthood, their financial outlook is significantly molded by the rising costs of living and housing, including in Colorado’s key metro areas. But understanding these costs goes beyond mere budgeting; it all comes down to crafting a future in places teeming with opportunities and unique lifestyles for the young generation of renters.

With the rental market now in full swing, we’re here to provide a detailed look at what Gen Z renters in Colorado will likely fork out on rent by the time they hit 30. Our focus areas include the following metro areas: Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Grand Junction, and Pueblo.

Let’s dive into how these housing costs correlate with their projected earnings as Gen Zers approach their 30s, and what life in these areas has to offer for Zoomers seeking apartments for rent in Colorado.

Denver

Denver, the beating heart of Colorado, is a great choice for Gen Z renters. By the age of 30, these young adults are expected to have earned $679,790, allocating approximately $185,000 of that to rent.

Living in Denver as a young renter is all about experiencing life in a dynamic urban environment at the foot of the Rockies. The city’s bustling nightlife, diverse food scene, rich cultural offerings, and outdoor activities make Denver apartments extremely attractive. Additionally, Denver’s art districts (such as Tennyson Street Arts District, RiNo Arts District, Golden Triangle Arts District, and the Art District on Santa Fe) and tech hubs particularly resonate with the energetic and ambitious Gen Z crowd, making apartments for rent in Denver highly sought after.

Colorado Springs

Projected to earn almost $541,000 between the ages of 22 and 29 years old, Gen Z renters in Colorado Springs will likely spend a little more than $158,000 on rent as they navigate their 20s. Those renting here enjoy a unique blend of laid-back urban living and stunning natural beauty, with the added benefit of being just an hour’s drive from Denver.

The presence of military bases, innovative tech industries, and educational institutions contribute to Colorado Springs’ appeal. Here, Gen Z renters enjoy a variety of outdoor activities available right on their doorstep — including hiking, biking, and the famous Garden of the Gods. That said, apartments for rent in Colorado Springs are a great fit for Zoomers who appreciate a lifestyle that combines outdoor adventure with urban conveniences.

Fort Collins

With earnings exceeding $533,000 by age 30 and over $161,000 allocated to rent in their 20s, Gen Z in Fort Collins thrives in an environment that blends academic excellence with a strong local economy.

The city is known for its craft breweries, local arts scene, and being the home of Colorado State University, which attracts a young crowd each academic year. Most apartments for rent in Fort Collins are nestled among boutique shops, cozy cafes, and exude a community-centric vibe, making it an engaging and appealing place to live and flourish.

Grand Junction

Anticipated to earn nearly $473,000 by 30, with almost $132,000 of that spent on rent during the ages of 22 and 29, Gen Zers in Grand Junction relish a more relaxed pace of life with no shortage of scenery.

This area is known for its laid-back lifestyle featuring vineyards, orchards, and proximity to some of Colorado’s most breathtaking landscapes, such as the Colorado National Monument. Those are just some of the reasons why apartments in Grand Junction draw renters who prefer a quieter life surrounded by nature, yet within a tight-knit community that loves outdoor activities and local festivals.

Pueblo

Earning slightly more than $367,000 by their 30th birthday and paying just under $96,000 of their total income on rent during their 20s, Gen Z renters find Pueblo to be an affordable option when it comes to living in Colorado.

This city boasts a rich cultural heritage with annual festivals, a vibrant arts scene, and historic architecture. Its lower cost of living does not compromise on the quality of life, making apartments for rent in Pueblo particularly attractive. Moreover, Pueblo offers several amenities and attractions that resonate well with the Gen Z crowd — our personal favorite is the world’s only solar-powered coffee roaster.

Across these diverse Colorado metros, Gen Z renters are poised to face a spectrum of financial realities by the time they hit 30. From the urban appeal of Denver to the scenic calm of Grand Junction, each area offers unique advantages that go beyond mere living spaces. By understanding what each metro has to offer, Gen Z renters are equipped to make savvy decisions that sync their lifestyle preferences with their economic realities, ensuring a promising start to the next chapter of their lives.

Wondering how much Gen Z is poised to spend on rent before hitting 30 in other states? Check out our projections for Texas, Florida, and New York.