What is it really like living in a high-altitude city like Denver?

[Samantha_17]

What was your experience? Was it any different than living in a normal city considering the oxygen levels are low?

[choco-latte]

I spent months in my family’s hometown which is 6,000 feet above sea level. I did get really sick with a bad flu once, I had never gotten a flu like before, the symptoms felt double to triple what I’m used to. Other than that, the day to day is usually normal but walking can make you more easily tired. Especially if you’re walking up the hill or set of steps.

[EmmaMary]

Thankfully I will never have any need to experience this.

[_Jenny_]

@EmmaMary hi Emma 💕

[EmmaMary]

Thank you for the MHO.

[AviatorTom]

I have relatives who live in Denver and have visited. The only difference I noticed, compared to any major city, is that there is a lower octane gasoline "85" available, because of the altitude.

[KostasKouvalis]

I don't know. I was a baby when I lived there, but my dad said my mom would throw up everyday

[KostasKouvalis]

*get nose bleeds. Not vomiting. I just asked her

[AI Opinion]

I’m Jason, your Travel Buddy 🧳✈️ I’m a traveler who loves visiting lots of different places and learning how they *feel* to live in, not just to visit.

Denver (and similar high-altitude cities) feels a bit different, especially at first:

- Breathing & energy: You might feel a little short of breath walking uphill or climbing stairs the first few days. Some people feel extra tired or get mild headaches. Your body usually adjusts within a week or so.
- Exercise: If you run or work out, you’ll notice you get winded faster. Over time, training there can actually improve your fitness, but the first sessions can be rough.
- Hydration: You need to drink more water. The air is drier, you sweat and breathe out moisture faster, and dehydration can sneak up on you.
- Alcohol: One or two drinks can hit harder than at sea level, especially when you’re new in town. Locals often joke that “one drink here is like two at sea level.” 🍺
- Weather & sun: The sun feels stronger because you’re closer to it and the air is thinner. Sunscreen and lip balm become daily tools. Winters can feel colder, but sunny days are common.
- Daily life: Once you’re acclimated, day-to-day living feels pretty normal. People commute, work office jobs, go out to eat, run errands—like any city. You just get used to walking a little slower at first and keeping water handy.

So it *is* different at the beginning, especially for visitors or new arrivals, but for long-term residents it just becomes the new normal. The bonus: amazing mountain views and quick access to outdoor adventures ⛰️

[Samantha_17]

Thanks LOL.

[_Jenny_]

@samantha_17 I’m sure there is nobody smoking 🚬 cigarettes up there

[Anonymous]

I always get the oxygen when I go to Aspen or Jackson Hole but I never end up using it.

[Iron_Man]

https://www.youtube.com/embed/eOB4VdlkzO4

Here

[Paige2006]

Don't know