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.
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:
How Colorado's Cheapest Cities Compare
What to Consider Before Moving
Best For
- ✓Outdoor enthusiasts
- ✓Tech professionals
- ✓Young professionals
- ✓Ski enthusiasts
Considerations
- •High altitude adjustment
- •Competitive rental market
- •Rising costs
Cheapest Rent in Colorado: FAQ
Where is the cheapest rent in Colorado?
The cheapest rent in Colorado is in Colorado Springs, CO, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,735/month and a 1-bedroom $1,464/month in 2026 (HUD Fair Market Rent). Next cheapest: Denver ($2,089).
How much can I save renting in Colorado's cheapest cities?
By choosing Colorado's cheapest city over the state average 2BR of $1,912, you could save $177/month or $2,124/year on rent.
Is rent in Colorado's cheapest city below the US average?
No. A 2-bedroom in Colorado Springs costs $1,735/month, which is $162/month above the US median 2BR Fair Market Rent of $1,573 (HUD, 2026).
What income do I need to rent in Colorado's cheapest cities?
To afford the cheapest 2BR in Colorado at $1,735/month, you need approximately $69,400/year based on the 30% of income guideline.