The Housing Market in Commerce City Today
As of 2025, the housing market in Commerce City, Colorado is experiencing a period of transition. Inventory has tightened somewhat compared to previous years, with fewer homes and apartments available for rent or purchase. At the same time, new housing developments are rising downtown and in select neighborhoods, promising to bring additional living options to the area in the near future.
Economically, Commerce City is on relatively stable footing. The local job market has shown modest but steady growth, and wages have largely kept pace with the rising cost of living. While housing costs have increased in recent years, they remain more affordable than in many other parts of the Denver metro area.
Renting in Commerce City: What’s Typical?
For renters, Commerce City offers a range of options at various price points. As of 2025, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city is approximately $1,350 per month. Two-bedroom apartments command higher rents, with an average of around $1,700 monthly.
Rent prices can vary significantly based on factors like location, age of the building, and included amenities. Newer apartment complexes in popular areas like Reunion and Second Creek tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum. Many of these buildings offer features like in-unit laundry, covered parking, and access to a pool or fitness center, which can add to the overall cost.
In terms of availability, the rental market in Commerce City is relatively competitive. Well-priced apartments in desirable areas often get snapped up quickly, so renters need to be prepared to act fast when they find a suitable place. The city tends to attract a mix of young professionals, small families, and blue-collar workers, many of whom appreciate the balance of affordability and proximity to job centers in Denver and Aurora.
Owning a Home in Commerce City
For those looking to purchase a home, Commerce City offers a range of single-family houses, townhomes, and condos to fit various budgets and lifestyles. As of 2025, the median home price in the city is around $425,000, which is lower than the median for the Denver metropolitan area as a whole.
With a 10% down payment and a 30-year mortgage at 4% interest, the estimated monthly payment on a median-priced home in Commerce City would be approximately $2,200 (including principal and interest). However, homeowners must also account for additional costs like property taxes, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance, and HOA dues, which can add several hundred dollars or more to the monthly expense.
Property taxes in Commerce City are assessed at a rate of around 0.7% of a home’s value, which equates to $2,975 per year for a median-priced house. Homeowners insurance costs vary depending on the property and level of coverage, but a typical policy might run $1,200 to $1,800 annually. For properties located in a community with a homeowners association, monthly HOA fees can range from $200 to $400 or more.
Renters vs. Homeowners: Who Lives Where?
In Commerce City, around 60% of households own their homes, while 40% rent. This homeownership rate is slightly lower than the national average of 64%, likely due to the city’s younger population and a higher proportion of blue-collar jobs.
Renters in Commerce City tend to be younger, with many in their 20s and 30s. They are often single or partnered without children, and may work in industries like retail, healthcare, or hospitality. Renters are more likely to live in apartments or multi-family buildings, particularly in the central part of the city and along major transportation corridors.
Homeowners, on the other hand, skew a bit older and are more likely to be married or have children. They often work in fields like education, government, or professional services, and may have higher incomes that allow them to afford the upfront costs of buying a home. Homeowners are more evenly distributed throughout Commerce City, with many living in single-family houses in residential neighborhoods.
For some residents, particularly those with lower incomes or limited savings, the financial barriers to homeownership can be significant. Coming up with a down payment and qualifying for a mortgage may be challenging, especially in a competitive market. Additionally, cultural factors and family history can play a role in whether someone prioritizes owning a home.
Typical Monthly Housing Costs in Commerce City
Here’s what housing costs might look like each month in Commerce City:
| Expense | Renting (1BR) | Owning (Median Price) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent/Mortgage | $1,350 | $2,200 |
| Property Tax | $0 | $250 |
| Utilities | $120 | $180 |
| Insurance | $15 (renters) | $125 (homeowners) |
| HOA Dues | $0 | $250 |
| Total | $1,485 | $3,005 |
Estimates reflect mid-range properties and average usage.
What’s Driving Costs Up or Down?
Several factors influence the cost of housing in Commerce City. On the demand side, the city’s growing population and strong job market are putting upward pressure on prices. As more people move to the area for work or to be close to Denver, competition for available homes and apartments increases, allowing landlords and sellers to command higher prices.
In terms of supply, Commerce City has seen a moderate amount of new construction in recent years, particularly in the form of apartment buildings and townhome communities. However, the pace of development has not always kept up with demand, contributing to a tight housing market. Zoning regulations and land availability also play a role, as much of the city is already built out or dedicated to non-residential uses.
Looking ahead, city leaders are exploring ways to encourage more affordable housing development, such as offering incentives to builders and updating zoning codes to allow for higher-density projects in certain areas. These efforts could help to ease some of the pressure on prices, but are unlikely to completely offset the impact of strong demand and limited supply in the near term.
FAQs About Housing in Commerce City
Is Commerce City affordable to live in?
Compared to other parts of the Denver metro area, Commerce City is relatively affordable. However, housing costs have risen in recent years, and many residents still struggle to find homes or apartments that fit their budgets.
Why are housing prices changing?
Housing prices in Commerce City are influenced by a variety of factors, including population growth, job market conditions, construction trends, and zoning regulations. In general, strong demand and limited supply are driving costs up.
How does Commerce City compare to nearby cities?
Housing costs in Commerce City are generally lower than in Denver proper, but may be higher than in some smaller towns further from the metro area. Compared to similarly-sized suburbs like Thornton or Aurora, Commerce City is roughly on par in terms of home prices and rents.
Making Smart Housing Decisions in Commerce City
For anyone considering a move to Commerce City, it’s important to carefully weigh the costs and benefits of renting versus owning. Renting offers greater flexibility and lower upfront costs, but homeownership can provide a sense of stability and the opportunity to build equity over time. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your individual financial situation, lifestyle preferences, and long-term goals.
Regardless of whether you choose to rent or buy, it’s essential to budget carefully and plan for all of the associated costs. In addition to rent or mortgage payments, be sure to factor in expenses like utilities, insurance, maintenance, and transportation. Creating a detailed monthly budget can help you understand how much you can afford to spend on housing and identify areas where you may need to cut back.
Finally, don’t hesitate to seek out resources and support as you navigate the housing market in Commerce City. Local real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and housing counselors can provide valuable guidance and help you make informed decisions. By doing your research and planning ahead, you can find a home that fits your needs and budget in this dynamic and growing community. For more information, check out our comprehensive guide to the cost of living in Commerce City.