Denver, CO vs. Westminster, CO: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Denver area? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Denver and Westminster, Colorado. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone looking to understand the real differences in living costs between Denver and Westminster in 2025.
In a nutshell, here’s how Denver and Westminster stack up:
- 🏘️ Median home price: Denver $615K, Westminster $580K
- 🛒 Average grocery bill: Denver $380/mo, Westminster $350/mo
- 🔌 Typical energy bill: Denver $180/mo, Westminster $150/mo
- 💸 Sales tax rate: Denver 8.81%, Westminster 8.35%
Let’s dive into the details and see which city comes out ahead in each major cost category.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Denver and Westminster. While both cities have seen rising prices, Westminster remains slightly more affordable for both renting and buying.
| Housing Type | Denver | Westminster |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $615,000 | $580,000 |
| Average Rent (2BR) | $2,400 | $2,200 |
🏆 Winner: Westminster
For a typical home, expect to pay around $35,000 less in Westminster compared to Denver. Renting a 2-bedroom apartment is also about $200/month cheaper in Westminster.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Both Denver and Westminster experience cold winters and hot summers, leading to fluctuating energy bills. However, Westminster residents report slightly lower utility costs on average:
- Denver: $180/month (winter high: $250)
- Westminster: $150/month (winter high: $200)
Westminster’s lower housing density and newer construction may contribute to the lower energy costs. Both cities offer optional time-of-use plans that can help save on electricity during off-peak hours.
🏆 Winner: Westminster
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
The cost of groceries and everyday items like toiletries and cleaning supplies doesn’t differ too much between Denver and Westminster. Expect to spend around $350-$400 per month for a typical family in either city.
However, Westminster does have slightly lower costs, especially for basics like milk, eggs and bread. Eating out also tends to be a bit cheaper, with average meal prices around 5% lower than in Denver proper.
🏆 Winner: Westminster
4. Taxes and Fees
While most people focus on income tax, property taxes and local sales taxes can have a big impact on your overall cost of living. Here’s how Denver and Westminster compare:
- Denver: 0.56% property tax, 8.81% sales tax, 0.25% occupational privilege tax
- Westminster: 0.51% property tax, 8.35% sales tax, no additional local taxes
The difference in sales tax means that for every $1000 you spend on taxable goods, you’ll pay about $5 less in Westminster.
Denver also has an “employee head tax” of $5.75 per month for anyone working in the city limits, regardless of where they live. Westminster has no such tax.
🏆 Winner: Westminster
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Denver | Westminster |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,400 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $180 | $150 |
| Groceries | $380 | $350 |
| Transportation | $110 | $130 |
| Taxes | 8.81% sales tax | 8.35% sales tax |
| Misc. | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,320 | $3,080 |
Overall, the cost of living in Westminster is around $240 less per month compared to Denver for a similar lifestyle. That’s a savings of $2,880 per year.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Of course, the raw costs don’t tell the whole story. Denver and Westminster each have unique benefits that may sway your decision.
Denver offers a dense urban environment, highly walkable neighborhoods, and extensive public transit. It’s a better fit if you prefer a car-optional lifestyle and don’t mind less square footage.
On the other hand, Westminster has more spacious suburban housing and easy access to open spaces. Homes often have private yards and garages. Traffic is lighter and parking is easier, but you’ll likely need a car for daily errands.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Denver more affordable than Westminster?
A: No, Westminster has a lower overall cost of living, with cheaper housing, utilities, and taxes.
Q: Which city has lower rent prices?
A: Westminster has lower average rent, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $200 less per month than in Denver.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Westminster has lower median home prices, with a typical house costing about $35,000 less than a comparable home in Denver.
8. Conclusion
While Denver and Westminster are only about 10 miles apart, their costs of living do differ. Westminster comes out ahead on nearly every metric, from housing and food to utilities and taxes.
For a typical family, living in Westminster will save around $240 per month compared to Denver. Over a year, that’s $2,880 that could go toward other financial goals.
However, Denver may still be the better choice for those who value urban density and walkability over square footage and suburban quiet. It’s all about finding the right fit for your lifestyle.
Carefully weigh the tradeoffs of each city as you budget for your move. Check out our guides on monthly budgeting for Denver residents and the full cost of living in Denver to help inform your decision.