Moving from San Diego, CA, to Denver, CO

Preparing for high altitude living in Denver

Moving from San Diego to Denver, aka “The Mile-High City,” means planning to adjust to a higher elevation, as the city is one mile above sea level.

While Denver's altitude is higher, the population isn’t. Denver’s population is 716,000, compared to San Diego’s 1.4 million. Their metro areas are closer in population, with 3.1 million in the Denver metro and 3.3 million in the San Diego metro. 

Another great thing about Denver is the sunshine. The city averages around 300 sunny days per year.

Colder winters ahead in Colorado

Denver winters are much colder than San Diego’s mild winters along the Pacific Coast. Denver’s winter low averages only 18 degrees, a stark contrast to San Diego's average January lows in the mid-40s. And while San Diego rarely gets snow, Denver averages 60 inches annually.

There is a less noticeable difference in yearly rainfall, with Denver averaging 17 inches compared to San Diego's average of 12 inches. Summer highs typically peak at just under 90 degrees in Denver, much warmer than the mid-70s temperatures during summers in San Diego.

Enjoy what Denver has to offer

Denver is the perfect city for outdoor adventure and stunning mountain views. Other outdoor attractions in or near the town include the Denver Botanic Gardens, the Denver Zoo and the scenic Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, formerly known as Mount Evans. 

Visitors can also explore Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre or take a trip to the breathtaking Rocky Mountain National Park, only 71 miles away. Sloan’s Lake Park offers another lovely spot for outdoor enjoyment. For those looking for indoor activities, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, the Downtown Aquarium, and the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus are sure to delight.

Interesting facts about Denver

Here are some fun facts about “The Mile-High City”:

  • Denver has pro sports teams in the NFL, NBA, MLB and MLS.
  • Denver has the most extensive city park system with over 14,000 acres of mountain parks.
  • Historic Union Station, now a cultural hub in Denver, opened in 1881.
  • The railroad coming to town saved the city, which was largely abandoned after a flood in the 1860s.
  • While the city had no gold deposits, it became a huge supply hub during the 1850s. Later, the Capitol Building was topped with real gold leaf to honor the city’s contributions to the Gold Rush.

Relocate from California to Colorado easily with U-Pack

With service centers near San Diego and Denver, U-Pack® can help with your move from California to Colorado. We’re a DIY moving service where you pack, load and unload, and then we take care of the driving. Get your free online quote today or give us a call at 844-362-5303844-594-3077.