What is the Property Tax Rate in Denver?
Based on HomeLight’s analysis of publicly available data, the average effective property tax rate for a primary residence in Denver is approximately 0.55% of its estimated value. This is lower than the national average of 0.90%.
For example, with a 0.55% effective tax rate, a homeowner with a $640,000 home might pay around $3,520 in annual property taxes.
An effective property tax rate represents the actual percentage of a property’s market value that a homeowner pays in taxes, considering the assessed value and any exemptions or deductions.
Note: HomeLight’s Denver property tax calculator provides a ballpark estimate for a primary residence using average rates. Your tax can vary based on location and the specific taxing districts (e.g., schools, fire districts, and libraries) that apply to your parcel. For a precise number, contact the Denver Assessor’s Office.
Are There Property Tax Exemptions in Denver?
Homeowners in Denver may qualify for several property tax exemptions that can lower their tax bill. These are offered through the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, depending on your location.
Qualifying residents can apply for a homestead exemption of up to $250,000, and eligible disabled or senior citizens can apply for an exemption of up to $350,000.
When Are Denver Property Taxes Due?
Denver property taxes are paid in two installments, due on the last day of February and on June 15.
What Do Property Taxes Pay For in Denver?
Local property taxes in Denver pay for important local services, including:
- Public schools
- Police, fire, and EMS services
- Roads, streets, and traffic signals
- Parks, libraries, and community centers
- City and county government operations
- Infrastructure like water, sewer, and trash services
- Repayment of local bond projects (such as transit and school improvements)
What Does It Cost to Buy a Home in Denver?
How Much House Can You Afford?
Affordability in Denver depends on your income, debt, credit score, and mortgage rate. With a median household income of around $92,911 in the Mile High City, a buyer might afford a home in the $300,000–$315,000 range using standard debt-to-income guidelines. However, with the Denver median home price coming in at $640,000, many buyers need dual incomes or additional savings to qualify.
Use HomeLight’s Home Affordability Calculator to estimate your budget based on your income, debts, and current rates.
What Down Payment Will You Need in Denver?
According to Axios, the average down payment on a house in Denver is 15%. However, down payment amounts vary widely depending on loan type and credit score. While 20% used to be the expected standard, many buyers put down between 5% and 15%, with 3% options available for FHA and some conventional first-time buyer loans.
For a $640,000 home, here’s what your down payment could look like:
- 3% down = $19,200
- 5% down = $32,000
- 10% down = $64,000
- 15% down = $96,000
- 20% down = $128,000
Try HomeLight’s Down Payment Calculator to see how different down payments affect your monthly payment and loan size.
How Much Are Closing Costs in Denver?
Buyers in Denver can expect to pay about 2% to 5% of the purchase price in closing costs. These may include:
- Loan origination and underwriting fees
- Title insurance and escrow fees
- Appraisal and inspection costs
- Prepaid property taxes and homeowners’ insurance
- Filing and recording fees
For a $640,000 home, that means estimated closing costs of $12,800 to $32,000. Use HomeLight’s Closing Costs Calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your expected Denver home purchase price.
How To Find a Trusted Denver Real Estate Agent
An experienced Denver agent can help you understand local tax rates, school districts, and development trends — and guide you toward neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle and budget.
HomeLight’s free Agent Match tool uses data from over 27 million transactions and thousands of verified reviews to match you with top Denver agents based on real performance, not paid ads.
Tell us a little about your buying plans and get matched today with no obligation.
Additional resources when searching for a trusted buyer’s agent in Denver:
Buying and Selling? Consider “Buy Before You Sell”
If you’re buying a new home in Denver but need to sell your current property first, HomeLight’s Buy Before You Sell program can simplify the entire process. This modern solution helps you unlock equity from your current home so you can make a non-contingent offer on your new home — and only move once. Watch the short video below to see how it works.