Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
32% cheaper
Las Vegas is 32% more affordable than Boulder. A $75,000 salary in Boulder is equivalent to $51,182 in Las Vegas.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Colorado salaries · Nevada salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Boulder has a housing index of 230 while Las Vegas sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Boulder costs $750,000 compared to $350,000 in Las Vegas, a difference of $400,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,300 in Boulder versus $1,400 in Las Vegas.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Boulder scores 107 while Las Vegas scores 101.
Healthcare costs in Boulder (104) are higher than Las Vegas (96). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Boulder is $73,123 compared to $56,415 in Las Vegas. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Las Vegas.
Amazon affiliate links