Littleton, CO vs. Westminster, CO: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Deciding between Littleton and Westminster, Colorado? Here’s a quick cost comparison:
- 🏘️ Housing: Littleton has lower rent and home prices
- ⚡ Utilities: Westminster’s utility bills are about 5% cheaper
- 🥑 Groceries: Costs are nearly equal, with Littleton ~2% lower
- 💸 Taxes: Property taxes are 10-15% lower in Littleton
This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison of Littleton vs Westminster. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in Littleton and Westminster in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Littleton and Westminster. Here’s how typical housing costs compare:
| Housing Type | Littleton | Westminster |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,800 | $2,100 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $550,000 | $625,000 |
🏆 Winner: Littleton. Housing costs are about 15% lower in Littleton compared to Westminster.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two Denver suburbs. Expect the following monthly utility bills:
- Littleton: $180-$220 per month
- Westminster: $170-$210 per month
Both cities have similar climates, so heating and cooling costs don’t vary much. Westminster does have slightly lower water and sewer rates.
🏆 Winner: Westminster. Utility bills are about 5% lower in Westminster vs Littleton.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
The cost of groceries, dining out, and everyday goods is nearly identical in Littleton and Westminster. Expect to pay:
- $100-$150 per person for weekly groceries
- $12-$18 for a basic restaurant meal
- $5 for a latte or cappuccino
🏆 Winner: Littleton, but just barely. Grocery costs are about 2% lower in Littleton compared to Westminster.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both Littleton and Westminster have property taxes that are slightly lower than the Denver metro average. However, Littleton comes out ahead:
- Littleton property tax rate: 0.7% – 0.8%
- Westminster property tax rate: 0.8% – 0.95%
In Littleton, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash service. Westminster has fewer neighborhoods with HOAs.
🏆 Winner: Littleton. Property taxes are 10-15% lower in Littleton compared to Westminster.
5. Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Littleton | Westminster |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,800 | $2,100 |
| Utilities | $200 | $190 |
| Groceries | $500 | $510 |
| Transportation | $100 | $80 |
| Taxes | $600 | $700 |
| Misc | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,600 | $3,980 |
Note: All income and cost figures are expressed as gross monthly amounts (pre-tax).
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Littleton is more affordable overall, each city has lifestyle tradeoffs to consider:
- Littleton has larger lots and more spacious homes
- Westminster is more walkable and has better public transit
- Littleton is quieter with less traffic
- Westminster is 15 minutes closer to downtown Denver
Littleton averages 2°F cooler than Westminster in the summer. Both cities get similar amounts of snow in the winter.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Littleton more affordable than Westminster?
Yes, the cost of living is about 10% lower in Littleton. Housing is the biggest difference, with rents and home prices 15% less in Littleton.
Which city has lower rent?
Littleton has lower rent, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $1,800 compared to $2,100 in Westminster.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Littleton. The median price for a 3BR house is $550,000 in Littleton vs $625,000 in Westminster.
8. Conclusion
Littleton is the more affordable place to live, with lower costs for housing, groceries, and taxes. A household moving from Westminster to Littleton could save $400 per month on living costs alone.
However, Westminster may be worth the extra cost for some lifestyles. It’s more walkable, has better transit access to Denver, and offers an easier commute. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget, housing needs, and lifestyle priorities.
Carefully weigh the tradeoffs and crunch the numbers for your situation. Browse more cost of living factors in Littleton or check out typical monthly budget examples for Littleton residents.