Cost of Living in Thornton, CO
Thornton cost of living index: 93.3 (below the US average). Median home price: $414,000.
Updated 2026 • Based on 1 local zip code
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
% below the national average
Housing
Data from 1 zip code
Housing costs in Thornton, CO based on real market data from 1 local zip code.
Analyzing the housing data for Thornton, CO, we see a housing index of 98.7, indicating it’s a more expensive area relative to the national average. The median home price stands at 414000.0, signaling a competitive market for buyers. Renting remains a viable alternative, with average monthly rents of 2000.0 for a 2-bedroom apartment and for a 2-bedroom house, both reflecting regional property value trends. Buyers and renters alike must weigh their options; consider additional factors such as local amenities, job market conditions, and community atmosphere to inform your decision.
Last updated: January 2026
Utilities
The cost of utilities such as electricity, natural gas, and other services can significantly impact the overall cost of living.
Living in Thornton, CO could entail variable utility costs. Electricity costs sit at $15.21, while natural gas is priced at $11.3 per Thousand Cubic Feet. Expect to budget about $92.3 monthly for other services like water and garbage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Local Income & Economy in Thornton, CO
How far does your money go in Thornton? Understanding the relationship between income and cost of living is key to evaluating affordability.
How We Calculate Adjusted Purchasing Power in Thornton
The adjusted purchasing power shows what a Thornton, CO household income is actually worth after accounting for local prices. We calculate it using the formula: Purchasing Power = Median Income ÷ Cost of Living Index × 100
For Thornton, that's $95,064 ÷ 93.3 × 100 = $101,891. This means a household earning the median income in Thornton has the equivalent buying power of $101,891 in a city where the cost of living index equals the national baseline of 100.
With a cost of living index of 93.3, Thornton is more affordable than the national average. The median household income of $95,064 effectively stretches to $101,891 in purchasing power — meaning everyday expenses like housing, groceries, and utilities cost less here. This makes Thornton, CO an attractive destination for budget-conscious families, remote workers, and retirees looking to maximize their income.
Housing is particularly affordable, with a median home price of $414,000. Renters and first-time homebuyers in Thornton benefit from lower monthly costs compared to national averages, leaving more room in the budget for savings and quality of life.
💡 Purchasing power is calculated by dividing the local median household income by the cost of living index and multiplying by 100. A result higher than the nominal income means your money goes further; a lower result means local prices erode your earnings. The US baseline cost of living index is 100.
Pros & Cons of Living in Thornton
Pros
- • Friendly community vibe
- • Growing nightlife options
- • Affordable living costs
- • Vibrant local events
- • Strong schools in area
- • Diverse population
- • Multiple parks for kids
- • Access to nearby mountains
- • Good job opportunities
- • Easy commutes to Denver
Cons
- • Occasional racism issues
- • Some schools underperforming
- • Weather can be unpredictable
- • Economic disparities noted
- • Higher crime rates reported
- • Traffic congestion during rush
- • Limited cultural activities
- • Limited public transport options
- • Less nightlife than Denver
- • Budget constraints in city
💡City Insights
Thornton scores 7/10 for affordability, 5/10 for safety, and 5/10 for family-friendliness — an good overall profile. Its strongest aspect is affordability, making it particularly suitable for budget-conscious buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Thornton, CO? ▼
The cost of living in Thornton, CO is 7% lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 93 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in Thornton, CO? ▼
In Thornton, CO, The median home price is $414,000. requiring approximately $131,571 annual income to afford. Average rent is $2,000/month (requiring ~$80,000/year income). The local median household income is $95,064, making homeownership attainable for typical residents. Explore Thornton real estate data →
Is Thornton, CO a safe place to live? ▼
Thornton, CO is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Thornton crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Thornton, CO? ▼
To live comfortably in Thornton, CO and afford a median-priced home of $414,000, you would typically need a household income of $103,500 to $129,375 per year. The local median household income is $95,064. Renting requires approximately $80,000/year (at $2,000/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the best neighborhoods in Thornton, CO? ▼
The best neighborhoods in Thornton, CO depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods throughout the city offer good value since the median home price of $414,000 is below the national average.
How are the taxes in Thornton, CO? ▼
Tax rates in Thornton, CO include state and local components. The cost of living index of 93 suggests a lower overall tax and expense burden cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Thornton tax information →
How does Thornton, CO compare to nearby cities? ▼
Thornton, CO offers a more affordable alternative to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 93, median home prices of $414,000, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in Thornton, CO? ▼
Weather in Thornton, CO varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Thornton climate & environment data →
What factors affect cost of living in Thornton, CO? ▼
The main factors affecting cost of living in Thornton, CO include housing costs (the biggest factor), utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. Local taxes and the overall economic conditions also play a role.
Housing Costs by Zip Code
Detailed housing data across 1 zip code in Thornton, CO.
| Zip Code | Median Home Price | Avg Rent | 2BR Rent | For Sale | For Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 80229 | $414,000 | $2,161/mo | $2,000/mo | 192 | 39 |
Explore More About Thornton, CO
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Zillow, Redfin