Arvada, CO vs. Aurora, CO: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Homebuyers and renters in Colorado may be surprised to learn that the cost of living in Arvada is 14% lower than in nearby Aurora. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison of Arvada vs Aurora to help you decide which Denver suburb fits your lifestyle and budget in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
The median home price in Arvada is $525,000 compared to $415,000 in Aurora. For renters, a typical 2-bedroom apartment goes for around $1,800/month in Arvada and $1,650 in Aurora.
| Housing | Arvada | Aurora |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $525,000 | $415,000 |
| Typical 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,800 | $1,650 |
🏆 Winner: Aurora
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills in Arvada average $180/month, about 10% higher than Aurora’s $165/month. Expect higher heating costs in the winter months. Both cities offer rebates for energy-efficient upgrades.
🏆 Winner: Aurora
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries cost about the same in Arvada and Aurora. A gallon of milk averages $3.50 and a loaf of bread is around $2.80 in both cities. Eating out is also comparable, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing $15-20.
🏆 Winner: Tie
4. Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are slightly higher in Arvada at 0.7% vs 0.6% in Aurora. However, Aurora has higher sales taxes of 8.5% compared to Arvada’s 7.5%. In Arvada, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, while Aurora residents may pay separately for those services.
🏆 Winner: Arvada
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Arvada | Aurora |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,800 | $1,650 |
| Utilities | $180 | $165 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $60 | $55 |
| Taxes | $350 | $300 |
| Misc | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,040 | $2,820 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Aurora offers more affordable housing, Arvada provides a quieter suburban feel with more open space. Commutes into Denver tend to be easier from Arvada. Arvada averages 5°F cooler than Aurora in the summer months.
7. FAQ
- Is Arvada more affordable than Aurora? Overall, Arvada has a lower cost of living than Aurora, though housing costs are higher.
- Which city has lower rent? Rent is about 10% cheaper in Aurora than Arvada for comparable apartments.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? The median home price in Aurora is about $110,000 less than in Arvada as of 2025.
8. Conclusion
While Aurora offers lower housing costs, Arvada’s quieter neighborhoods, open space, and convenient location may be worth the premium for some. Ultimately, both Denver suburbs provide a high quality of life. Check out our other monthly budget examples for Arvada residents and full cost of living guide for Arvada in 2025 for more details.