Highlands Ranch, CO vs. Thornton, CO: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Highlands Ranch vs Thornton. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Highlands Ranch vs Thornton in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest expense when comparing the cost of living between cities. Here’s how Highlands Ranch and Thornton stack up for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Highlands Ranch | Thornton |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,850 | $1,650 |
| Median 3BR House Price | $625,000 | $525,000 |
🏆 Winner: Thornton. Housing costs an estimated 10-15% less in Thornton compared to Highlands Ranch, both for renting and buying.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another important factor in the cost of living. In Highlands Ranch, HOA fees often include some utilities like water, sewer, and trash. Thornton has lower utility costs overall:
- Highlands Ranch: $180-$250/month (electric, gas, water, sewer, trash)
- Thornton: $140-$200/month
Both cities have similar climates, so heating and cooling costs are comparable. Xcel Energy serves both areas.
🏆 Winner: Thornton has lower utility costs by about $50/month on average.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery and restaurant prices are fairly similar between Highlands Ranch and Thornton. Expect to spend around $400-$600 per month for a typical family.
One difference is that Thornton has more discount grocery options like Aldi and Walmart Neighborhood Market. Highlands Ranch has more high-end stores like Whole Foods.
🏆 Winner: Thornton has a slight edge on grocery costs, but it’s close. Budget $50-$100 less per month compared to Highlands Ranch.
4. Taxes and Fees
Colorado has a flat 4.4% income tax rate statewide. So the biggest tax difference between Highlands Ranch and Thornton is property taxes:
- Highlands Ranch property tax rate: 0.72% (Douglas County)
- Thornton property tax rate: 0.69% (Adams County)
For a $500K home, that’s a difference of about $150 per year. HOA fees are common in both cities, typically ranging from $30 to $500+ per month depending on amenities.
🏆 Winner: Highlands Ranch has slightly higher property taxes, but it’s nearly a wash. HOA fees are the real variable.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Cost Category | Highlands Ranch | Thornton |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Mortgage/Rent) | $2,400 | $2,100 |
| Utilities | $220 | $170 |
| Groceries | $500 | $450 |
| Transportation | $300 | $250 |
| Taxes (Property) | $375 | $300 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,295 | $3,770 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Thornton is more affordable overall, Highlands Ranch offers perks like more open space, parks and trails. Thornton has more urban amenities and public transit access to Denver. Both suburbs are family-friendly with good schools.
Highlands Ranch is about 5°F cooler on average in the summer compared to Thornton. Thornton gets more snow in the winter.
7. FAQ
- Is Highlands Ranch more affordable than Thornton? No, Thornton is about 10% cheaper overall.
- Which city has lower rent? Thornton has lower rent prices by $100-$300 per month on average.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Thornton home prices are roughly 15% lower than Highlands Ranch.
8. Conclusion
Thornton comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison, with lower housing, utility, and food costs than Highlands Ranch. However, budget is just one factor in choosing where to live.
Highlands Ranch may be worth the premium for families who value abundant parks, trails and open space. Thornton appeals more to commuters and those seeking an urban-suburban mix. Reference our monthly budget examples for Highlands Ranch and full Highlands Ranch cost of living guide for more insights.