Cost of Living: Thornton, CO vs Westminster, CO (2026)

Thornton

Colorado
138
VS

Westminster

Colorado
139

Thornton and Westminster have a similar cost of living.

$1,810/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,816/mo ≈ Same
$100,985/yr ↑ 5%
Median Income
$96,145/yr ↓ 5%
$482,200 ↓ 3%
Home Value
$497,400 ↑ 3%
$1,914/mo ↑ 4%
Owner Costs
$1,841/mo ↓ 4%
142,878
Population
115,546

Tax Comparison

4.4%
Income Tax
4.4%
2.9%
State Sales Tax
2.9%
0.51%
Property Tax
0.51%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Thornton, CO and Westminster, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 138 and 139 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $4,840/year higher in Thornton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Thornton is $482,200 compared to $497,400 in Westminster.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Colorado.

Frequently Asked Questions

Thornton vs Westminster — common questions

Is Thornton or Westminster cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Thornton is cheaper to live in with an index of 138 compared to 139 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Thornton and Westminster?
Median rent in Thornton is $1,810/month and in Westminster it's $1,816/month — a difference of $6/month.
Which city has higher income, Thornton or Westminster?
Median household income is $100,985 in Thornton and $96,145 in Westminster. Median household income is $4,840/year higher in Thornton.
How do taxes compare between Colorado and Colorado?
Both cities are in Colorado and share the same state tax rates: 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.
Should I move to Thornton or Westminster?
It depends on your priorities. Thornton has a cost index of 138 with median rent of $1,810/mo, while Westminster has a cost index of 139 with rent of $1,816/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Thornton details → View Westminster details →

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