Boulder, CO vs. Thornton, CO: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Boulder vs Thornton. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Boulder vs Thornton in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how rent and home prices compare between Boulder and Thornton:
| Housing Type | Boulder | Thornton |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,400 | $1,900 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $1.2M | $550K |
🏆 Winner: Thornton. Housing costs are significantly lower in Thornton compared to Boulder, with savings of $500/month on a typical apartment and over $600K on a median home purchase.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills can add up, especially in Colorado’s variable climate. Here’s what to expect in Boulder vs Thornton:
- Boulder: $180-$250/month (lower in summer, higher in winter)
- Thornton: $150-$220/month
Both cities offer energy-saving programs like off-peak plans to help manage costs.
🏆 Winner: Thornton. While utility costs are similar, Thornton residents report saving about $30/month on average.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Food, gas, and everyday items are key cost of living factors. Groceries in Boulder cost about 10% more than in Thornton, while restaurant prices are roughly 15% higher.
Gas prices and most retail goods are comparable between the two cities. However, specialty items and boutiques tend to be pricier in Boulder.
🏆 Winner: Thornton. Expect to spend less on groceries and dining out in Thornton compared to Boulder.
4. Taxes and Fees
Taxes and city fees can add up. In Boulder, property taxes are around 0.6% vs 0.5% in Thornton. HOA fees in Boulder often include extras like landscaping, while Thornton HOAs are more affordable overall.
Both cities charge similar sales tax rates and have comparable vehicle registration fees.
🏆 Winner: Thornton. With lower property taxes and HOA fees, Thornton gets the edge for lower tax burden.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Boulder | Thornton |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,400 | $1,900 |
| Utilities | $220 | $190 |
| Groceries | $400 | $360 |
| Transportation | $80 | $70 |
| Taxes & Fees | $600 | $450 |
| Misc | $300 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,000 | $3,220 |
Based on typical expenses, it costs about $780 less per month to live in Thornton compared to Boulder. For a household earning a gross monthly income of $8,000, that’s nearly a 10% difference.
6. Lifestyle Fit
While cheaper, Thornton offers a much different lifestyle than Boulder:
- Thornton has more affordable suburban homes with yards, while Boulder offers pricier but walkable neighborhoods
- Boulder has stunning mountain views, while Thornton is flatter with more open space
- Commuting from Thornton to Denver takes 30+ minutes vs 45+ from Boulder
- Boulder averages 5°F cooler than Thornton in summer due to higher elevation
7. FAQ
Is Boulder more affordable than Thornton?
No, Thornton is more affordable than Boulder. Housing, food, and other living costs are lower in Thornton.
Which city has lower rent?
Thornton has lower average rent than Boulder, with 2BR apartments around $500/month cheaper.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Thornton has much lower home prices than Boulder – the median is over $600K less for a 3BR house.
8. Conclusion
Overall, Thornton offers a significantly lower cost of living than Boulder – around $780/month less for a typical household. Thornton is ideal for those seeking affordable suburban homes and a reasonable commute to Denver.
However, Boulder’s higher costs come with perks like stunning scenery, cooler summers, and walkable neighborhoods. It’s a great fit for outdoor enthusiasts who value those factors over square footage.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and priorities. Be sure to check out our other Monthly Budget Examples for Boulder Residents and Cost of Living in Boulder (2025 Guide) for more helpful info!