Lakewood, CO vs. Thornton, CO: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Lakewood vs Thornton. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Lakewood vs Thornton in 2025.
Housing Costs
Housing is one of the biggest factors in the cost of living difference between Lakewood and Thornton. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare:
| Housing Type | Lakewood | Thornton |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,950 | $1,800 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $550,000 | $480,000 |
🏆 Winner: Thornton. Housing costs tend to be 10-15% lower in Thornton compared to Lakewood.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another important consideration. In Lakewood, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 2BR apartment. Costs are similar in Thornton, averaging $175 monthly.
Both cities experience cold winters and mild summers, so heating and cooling needs are comparable. Xcel Energy provides service to both areas.
🏆 Winner: Thornton has a slight edge, but utility costs are very close between the two cities.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, dining out, and everyday purchases are key parts of any monthly budget for Lakewood residents. Expect to spend around $400 per month on groceries for a single person in either city.
Restaurant prices are reasonable, with a nice dinner for two costing $50-70 on average. Grocery and dining costs are nearly identical between Lakewood and Thornton.
🏆 Winner: Tie. There is no significant difference in food and daily living costs.
Taxes and Fees
Colorado has a flat 4.55% income tax rate statewide. Sales tax is 7.5% in Lakewood and 8.5% in Thornton.
Property taxes are slightly higher in Lakewood at a 0.7% average rate vs. 0.6% in Thornton. In Lakewood, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, adding $200-400 per month.
🏆 Winner: Thornton has lower property taxes and sales tax. The lack of HOAs also keeps housing costs down.
Cost Summary
| Expense | Lakewood | Thornton |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR rent) | $1,950 | $1,800 |
| Utilities | $180 | $175 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $100 | $120 |
| Taxes (based on $75k income) | $1,195 | $1,120 |
| Misc | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,325 | $4,115 |
Note: The above figures are estimates based on a pre-tax monthly income of $6,250 ($75,000 annually). Your actual costs may vary.
Lifestyle Fit
While Thornton offers savings on housing and taxes, Lakewood provides a few lifestyle advantages:
- Closer proximity to downtown Denver
- More walkable neighborhoods and parks
- Slightly milder winter weather
Thornton averages 5°F colder than Lakewood in January. However, Thornton has more new construction, offering modern layouts and amenities.
Thornton has longer commute times to Denver. But the city has more public transportation options, which can lower transportation costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lakewood more affordable than Thornton?
No, Thornton has a lower overall cost of living, mainly due to cheaper housing, taxes, and HOA fees.
Which city has lower rent?
Thornton has lower rent prices. A 2BR apartment averages $1,800 per month compared to $1,950 in Lakewood.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Thornton has lower home prices. The median price for a 3BR house is $480,000 in Thornton vs. $550,000 in Lakewood.
Conclusion
Thornton comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison, with lower housing, taxes, and HOA fees. A household moving from Lakewood to Thornton might save $200 per month on housing alone.
However, Lakewood can be a better fit for those prioritizing milder weather, walkability, and proximity to Denver. Be sure to consider your lifestyle needs in addition to the numbers.
For more insights, read our full Cost of Living in Lakewood guide or compare other Colorado cities.