Golden is considered moderately expensive in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $2,100 and slightly higher grocery and utility costs compared to the national average.
In 2025, the median home price in Golden, CO is $650,000, requiring a gross monthly income of around $9,500 for a comfortable lifestyle. For renters, a 2-bedroom apartment averages $2,100 per month, necessitating a gross income of approximately $6,300.
Housing Costs in Golden
Housing is the most significant expense for Golden residents. The typical housing options include single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. Prices vary by neighborhood and property type:
- 2-bedroom apartment: $1,900 – $2,300 per month
- 3-bedroom house: $550,000 – $750,000 purchase price
Neighborhoods like Canyon Point and Golden Hills tend to have higher housing costs, while areas like Pleasant View offer more affordable options. HOA fees are common in many Golden neighborhoods, ranging from $200 to $400 per month for amenities like pools, fitness centers, and landscaping.
For a family purchasing a 3-bedroom house at the median price of $650,000, the monthly mortgage payment would be around $3,900 (assuming a 20% down payment and a 30-year fixed mortgage at 4.5% APR). Property taxes add another $600 per month on average.
Utility and Energy Bills
Basic utilities in Golden include electricity, natural gas, water, and trash. Costs can vary based on usage and home size, but a typical estimate for a 2-bedroom apartment is:
| Utility | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $100 – $150 |
| Natural Gas | $50 – $80 |
| Water/Sewer | $60 – $90 |
| Trash | $20 – $30 |
| Total | $230 – $350 |
Heating costs can spike in the winter months, while summer cooling bills are generally more moderate in Golden compared to other parts of Colorado. Installing energy-efficient appliances and taking advantage of natural ventilation can help keep utility costs down.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
The average monthly grocery bill for a single person in Golden is around $350, while a family of four can expect to spend $1,100 or more. This assumes a mix of dining out and cooking at home. Some typical grocery costs:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.75
- Dozen eggs: $3.00
Dining out can add up quickly, with a basic meal at a casual restaurant averaging $15 per person. For a couple, allocating $400 – $600 per month for a mix of groceries and dining out is a reasonable budget.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Golden’s property tax rate is around 0.6% of assessed home value, which is slightly lower than the Colorado average of 0.55%. For a $650,000 home, annual property taxes would be approximately $7,200 or $600 per month.
Sales tax in Golden is 8.0%, which includes state, county, and city taxes. This applies to most goods and services, including dining out and retail purchases.
Vehicle registration fees in Golden vary based on the type and age of the vehicle, but budget $500 – $700 annually for a newer car. Drivers must also pay for emissions testing every two years, which costs around $25.
Monthly Budget Summary
| Expense Category | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $1,400 | $2,100 | $3,900 |
| Utilities | $150 | $230 | $350 |
| Groceries & Dining | $500 | $800 | $1,300 |
| Transportation | $200 | $400 | $600 |
| Healthcare | $300 | $600 | $1,000 |
| Other Essentials | $400 | $600 | $800 |
| Total Monthly Budget | $2,950 | $4,730 | $7,950 |
| Gross Monthly Income Required | $4,200 | $6,800 | $11,400 |
These figures represent a comfortable lifestyle in Golden. Adjusting discretionary spending and housing choices can lower the income required. All income figures are pre-tax (gross) estimates.
Lifestyle Considerations
When deciding where to live in Golden, consider factors like commute time, home size, outdoor space, and proximity to amenities. Neighborhoods closer to downtown, like 8th & 9th Street Historic District, offer walkability and charm but tend to have smaller, older homes at higher prices.
For more square footage and newer construction, look to areas like Mesa Meadows or Golden Hills. These neighborhoods provide more space but may require a longer commute to Denver and have fewer walkable amenities.
Access to parks, trails, and open space is excellent throughout Golden, with standouts like Clear Creek Trail and Golden Gate Canyon State Park. The city’s thriving beer scene and small-town feel are also major draws for many residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What salary do you need to live comfortably in Golden?
A: To live comfortably in Golden, a single person needs a gross monthly income of at least $4,200, while a family of four would need around $11,400 (or $137,000 annually) to cover all expenses without feeling financially strained.
Q: Is Golden more expensive than Denver?
A: Golden is generally less expensive than Denver proper, particularly when it comes to housing. However, Golden’s cost of living is still above the national average and more expensive than some other Denver suburbs like Arvada or Wheat Ridge.
Q: Are property taxes high in Golden?
A: Golden’s property tax rate of 0.6% is slightly higher than the Colorado average of 0.55% but lower than some other Denver metro areas. For a $650,000 home, expect to pay around $7,200 per year or $600 per month in property taxes.
Q: How much do utilities cost in Golden?
A: For a 2-bedroom apartment, budget $230 – $350 per month for basic utilities like electricity, gas, water, and trash. Larger homes and those with less efficient appliances or heating/cooling systems may have higher utility bills.
Q: What’s the sales tax rate in Golden?
A: The total sales tax rate in Golden is 8.0%, which includes state, county, and city taxes. This applies to most goods and services, including restaurant meals and retail purchases.
Q: Is Golden a good place to retire?
A: Golden can be an excellent place to retire for those who prioritize access to outdoor recreation, a small-town feel, and a reasonable cost of living. However, retirees on a fixed income may find the housing costs and taxes in Golden challenging.
Q: How much do you need to make to buy a house in Golden?
A: To comfortably afford the median home price of $650,000 in Golden, you’d need a gross household income of around $9,500 per month or $114,000 per year. This assumes a 20% down payment and allows for other typical expenses like taxes, insurance, and maintenance.