Highlands Ranch, CO vs. Westminster, CO: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Highlands Ranch vs Westminster. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Highlands Ranch vs Westminster in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Highlands Ranch and Westminster compare for typical housing options:
| Housing Type | Highlands Ranch | Westminster |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,850 | $1,950 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $550,000 | $525,000 |
🏆 Winner: Highlands Ranch. Rent is about $100/month cheaper on average, though home prices are slightly higher.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills can add up. In Highlands Ranch, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash. Westminster utility costs average $200/month. Both cities have seasonal swings, with summer A/C and winter heating adding $40-60/month.
🏆 Winner: Highlands Ranch. Utility savings of $20/month add up to $240/year.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For a family of four, a typical monthly grocery bill is around $900 in Highlands Ranch compared to $950 in Westminster. Eating out costs about 5% more in Westminster as well.
🏆 Winner: Highlands Ranch takes the lead again, with savings of $50/month on food alone.
4. Taxes and Fees
Colorado property taxes are lower than the national average. Highlands Ranch has a property tax rate of 0.49%, while Westminster’s rate is 0.53%. For a $500K home, that’s a difference of $200/year.
In Highlands Ranch, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $200-400/month. Westminster has fewer HOAs, but also fewer included services.
🏆 Winner: Westminster. The slightly higher property taxes are offset by generally lower HOA fees.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Highlands Ranch | Westminster |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,850 | $1,950 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $900 | $950 |
| Transportation | $500 | $450 |
| Taxes | 0.49% | 0.53% |
| Misc | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,830 | $3,950 |
Note: All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax). See our guide to Monthly Budget Examples for Highlands Ranch Residents for more details.
6. Lifestyle Fit
While the costs are similar, Highlands Ranch and Westminster offer different lifestyles. Highlands Ranch is a master-planned community with more space, trails, and a suburban feel. Westminster is closer to Denver for commuters and has more public transportation options.
Highlands Ranch is about 5°F cooler on average in the summer compared to Westminster. Both get snow in the winter.
7. FAQ
- Is Highlands Ranch more affordable than Westminster? Slightly. Rent and groceries are cheaper in Highlands Ranch, though home prices and taxes are a bit higher.
- Which city has lower rent? Highlands Ranch rent is about $100/month cheaper on average for a 2BR apartment.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Westminster has a lower median price for a 3BR home, around $525,000 compared to $550,000 in Highlands Ranch.
8. Conclusion
Overall, the cost of living in Highlands Ranch vs Westminster is quite comparable. A household moving from Westminster to Highlands Ranch might save $100-200/month on housing and food costs. Highlands Ranch is ideal for families wanting a suburban lifestyle, while Westminster appeals to commuters and those wanting city access.
Budgeting for a move? Check out our Cost of Living in Highlands Ranch (2025 Guide) for a full expense breakdown.