Centennial, CO vs. Aurora, CO: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Centennial residents pay $400 less per month on average for housing compared to those in Aurora. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Centennial and Aurora, perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real costs of these two Denver suburbs in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
The median home price in Centennial is $575,000 compared to $450,000 in Aurora as of 2025. Typical housing costs are:
| Housing Type | Centennial | Aurora |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,800 | $2,100 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $2,600 | $3,100 |
🏆 Winner: Centennial has lower housing costs across the board.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
In Centennial, typical utility bills including electricity, gas, water, and trash average $180 per month. Aurora utility costs are slightly higher at $200 monthly on average. Both cities experience cold winters that increase heating costs from November through March.
🏆 Winner: Centennial edges out Aurora with 10% lower utility bills on average.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are comparable between the two cities, with a family of four spending around $1,100 per month in either location. Centennial has more upscale supermarkets while Aurora offers budget-friendly options. Dining out costs 5-10% more in Centennial.
🏆 Winner: Aurora has lower costs for groceries and dining out.
4. Taxes and Fees
Centennial has a slightly lower sales tax rate of 7.5% compared to Aurora’s 8.5%. However, property taxes are higher in Centennial, averaging 0.6% of home value vs 0.5% in Aurora. In Centennial, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, adding $200-400 per month.
🏆 Winner: Aurora has a lower overall tax burden for most households.
5. Cost of Living in Centennial vs Aurora
| Category | Centennial | Aurora |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,600 | $3,100 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $1,100 | $1,050 |
| Transportation | $150 | $130 |
| Taxes | $800 | $700 |
| Misc | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $5,330 | $5,680 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Centennial offers more spacious homes and lots, appealing to families. It has top-rated schools but longer commutes to Denver. Aurora provides an urban-suburban mix with more walkable areas and public transit. Aurora averages 5°F warmer than Centennial year-round.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Centennial more affordable than Aurora?
Centennial has lower housing and utility costs, making it slightly more affordable overall. However, Aurora is cheaper for taxes, transportation and groceries.
- Which city has lower rent?
Centennial has lower average rent, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $1,800 per month compared to $2,100 in Aurora.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
The median home price in Centennial is $575,000 vs $450,000 in Aurora as of 2025, so Aurora is more affordable for homebuyers.
8. Conclusion
Centennial has the edge for families seeking space and top schools, with lower housing and utility costs. Aurora appeals more to young professionals who value walkability and urban amenities. To further evaluate your [monthly budget examples for Centennial residents](/centennial-co/monthly-budget/), read our full [cost of living guide for Centennial](/centennial-co/cost-overview/).
Note: All income and cost figures are expressed as gross monthly amounts.