Sterling, CO

Very Low · 69

Colorado · Population 13,273 · Updated March 2026

$1,052
Median Rent / Month
$44,242
Median Income
$205,200
Median Home Value
$928
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Sterling

28.5%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Moderate
Rent takes 25-35% of median income — moderate affordability.

Tax Burden in Colorado

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

4.4%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
2.9%
Sales Tax
0.51%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$12,624
Annual Rent
$1,947
State Income Tax
$1,047
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Sterling is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 69 (where 100 equals the national median), Sterling residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,052/month while earning a median household income of $44,242/year.

The median home value in Sterling, CO is $205,200, with typical monthly owner costs around $928 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 28.5%, Sterling falls within the generally affordable range, though it's approaching the 30% burden threshold.

Colorado has a moderate income tax rate of 4.4%. Combined with a 2.9% sales tax rate and 0.51% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Sterling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Sterling

What is the cost of living in Sterling, CO?
The cost of living index in Sterling, CO is 69 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,052, median household income is $44,242/year, and the median home value is $205,200.
Is Sterling, CO affordable?
Yes, Sterling is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 69. The rent-to-income ratio is 28.5%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Sterling, CO?
The median gross rent in Sterling, CO is $1,052 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $12,624.
What is the median household income in Sterling?
The median household income in Sterling, CO is $44,242 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Colorado?
Colorado has a top income tax rate of 4.4%, a sales tax of 2.9%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.51%.