Littleton, CO vs. Thornton, CO: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Littleton vs Thornton. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Littleton vs Thornton in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Littleton and Thornton compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Littleton | Thornton |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,800 | $1,650 |
| 3BR Home (Median Price) | $550,000 | $475,000 |
🏆 Winner: Thornton. Housing costs an estimated 10-15% less in Thornton compared to Littleton.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another important factor. In Littleton, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash. Costs may be 10-20% higher in winter months.
In Thornton, similar homes have utility costs closer to $150/month. The city also offers an off-peak energy plan that can provide additional savings.
🏆 Winner: Thornton has lower utility costs on average.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For a typical family, groceries in Littleton cost around $800-1000/month. Dining out averages $12-15 per meal per person.
In Thornton, grocery and restaurant prices are generally 5-10% lower. A family might spend $750-900/month on similar grocery items.
🏆 Winner: Thornton offers savings on everyday expenses like food and household goods.
4. Taxes and Fees
Littleton has a property tax rate of 0.7%. For a $500K home, that’s $3500/year. City service fees add another $50-100/month, and HOA fees often include landscaping and trash service, ranging from $200-500/month.
Thornton’s property tax rate is slightly lower at 0.6%. City fees are comparable, while HOAs are less common and average around $150/month.
🏆 Winner: Littleton has somewhat higher taxes and fees, though exact costs depend on your neighborhood.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Littleton | Thornton |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR Home) | $2,750/mo | $2,375/mo |
| Utilities | $180/mo | $150/mo |
| Groceries | $900/mo | $800/mo |
| Transportation | $500/mo | $450/mo |
| Taxes & Fees | $600/mo | $500/mo |
| Misc Costs | $500/mo | $500/mo |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $5,430 | $4,775 |
These figures reflect gross monthly income (pre-tax). Actual budgets vary by household.
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Thornton is more affordable overall, Littleton offers perks like walkable neighborhoods, quaint downtown areas, and easy access to outdoor recreation. Thornton provides more space for the money, newer housing options, and plentiful parks and trails.
Littleton averages 5°F cooler than Thornton in the summer months. Both cities require a car for most errands.
7. FAQ
- Is Littleton more affordable than Thornton? No, Thornton has a lower overall cost of living, especially for housing.
- Which city has lower rent? Thornton offers savings of $100-300/month on rent compared to similar apartments in Littleton.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? The median home price in Thornton is about 15% less than in Littleton as of 2025.
8. Conclusion
Thornton comes out ahead for affordability, but Littleton remains popular for its charm and amenities. Young professionals and first-time buyers will appreciate Thornton’s lower housing costs, while families and retirees may prefer Littleton’s character and location.
Budgeting is an important step when comparing cities. Check out our guide to Monthly Budget Examples for Littleton Residents or our Cost of Living in Littleton (2025 Guide) for more insights as you weigh your options.