Cost of Living: Thornton, CO vs Kent, WA (2026)

Thornton

Colorado
138
VS

Kent

Washington
145

Thornton is 5% cheaper than Kent.

$1,810/mo ↓ 1%
Median Rent
$1,833/mo ↑ 1%
$100,985/yr ↑ 12%
Median Income
$90,416/yr ↓ 10%
$482,200 ↓ 10%
Home Value
$537,500 ↑ 11%
$1,914/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,915/mo ≈ Same
142,878
Population
135,015

Tax Comparison

4.4%
Income Tax
0%
2.9%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
0.51%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Thornton, CO and Kent, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 138 and 145 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $10,569/year higher in Thornton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Thornton is $482,200 compared to $537,500 in Kent.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Kent residents a significant tax advantage over Colorado's 4.4% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Thornton vs Kent — common questions

Is Thornton or Kent cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Thornton is cheaper to live in with an index of 138 compared to 145 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Thornton and Kent?
Median rent in Thornton is $1,810/month and in Kent it's $1,833/month — a difference of $23/month.
Which city has higher income, Thornton or Kent?
Median household income is $100,985 in Thornton and $90,416 in Kent. Median household income is $10,569/year higher in Thornton.
How do taxes compare between Colorado and Washington?
Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Thornton or Kent?
It depends on your priorities. Thornton has a cost index of 138 with median rent of $1,810/mo, while Kent has a cost index of 145 with rent of $1,833/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Thornton details → View Kent details →

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