Commerce City, CO vs. Aurora, CO: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Commerce City vs Aurora. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of living in Commerce City vs Aurora in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Commerce City and Aurora compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Commerce City | Aurora |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,650 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $525,000 |
🏆 Winner: Commerce City has lower housing costs across the board, with savings of $200/month on a typical 2BR apartment and $75,000 on a median 3BR home purchase compared to Aurora.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $200-250/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 2BR apartment in either location.
Both cities experience cold winters and mild summers, so heating costs will exceed cooling. Aurora offers voluntary Time-of-Use rates that can lower bills for off-peak energy usage.
🏆 Winner: It’s a tie. Utility costs are comparable in Commerce City and Aurora.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are similar in the two cities for most staples. However, Aurora has more discount grocery options which can mean savings of 10-20% compared to Commerce City.
Expect to spend around $400/month per person on groceries and household goods in either city. Eating out will add $200-300/month per person, with slightly lower prices at Aurora’s diverse restaurant options.
🏆 Winner: Aurora edges out Commerce City on grocery and dining costs.
4. Taxes and Fees
The two cities have some notable differences in taxes and fees:
- Commerce City has lower property taxes: 0.67% vs 0.75% in Aurora
- Aurora charges a 4% Occupational Privilege Tax on wages (capped at $4/month)
- Commerce City HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, while Aurora HOAs may charge separately
🏆 Winner: Commerce City has an advantage with lower property taxes and fees.
5. Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Commerce City | Aurora |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,450 | $1,650 |
| Utilities | $225 | $225 |
| Groceries | $400 | $380 |
| Transportation | $100 | $75 |
| Taxes | 0.67% property tax | 0.75% property tax + $4 wage tax |
| Misc | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,425 | $2,584 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While the cost of living is important, also consider how each city fits your lifestyle:
- Commerce City offers more affordable housing, especially for families who need space
- Aurora has better public transit and walkability, ideal for commuters
- Aurora is 5°F warmer on average than Commerce City
- Commerce City is 10 minutes closer to downtown Denver
7. FAQ
Q: Is Commerce City more affordable than Aurora?
A: Yes, Commerce City has lower housing costs and property taxes, making it more affordable overall. However, Aurora can be cheaper for groceries and transportation.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Commerce City rent is about $200/month lower than Aurora for a typical 2BR apartment.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Commerce City has lower home prices, with a median 3BR costing $75,000 less than in Aurora as of 2025.
8. Conclusion
While both cities offer a good quality of life, Commerce City is cheaper than Aurora for most households. Families and those looking to buy a home will find their budget goes further in Commerce City.
However, Aurora can be a great fit for commuters and those who value walkability. It’s also a bit warmer year-round. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual budget and lifestyle.
Considering a move to Commerce City? Check out our monthly budget examples for Commerce City residents to see how far your income will go.