Northglenn is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $1,750 and slightly lower utility costs compared to the national average.
Is the true cost of living in Northglenn higher than you think? Many people are surprised by the actual monthly expenses required to live comfortably in this Denver suburb. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the major costs of living in Northglenn, Colorado in 2025, including housing, utilities, groceries, taxes, and lifestyle considerations. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what it takes to make ends meet in this growing community.
Housing Costs in Northglenn
Housing is typically the largest expense for Northglenn residents. In 2025, the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Northglenn is around $1,750 per month. However, prices can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood and property type. For example, newer luxury apartments in the city center may cost upwards of $2,200, while older units in more residential areas might be closer to $1,500.
If you’re looking to purchase a home, expect to pay between $450,000 and $600,000 for a typical 3-bedroom house. Again, prices will fluctuate based on factors like square footage, age of the property, and proximity to amenities. Some popular neighborhoods for homebuyers include Northglenn Heights, Deza Estates, and Hillcrest Estates.
It’s worth noting that many neighborhoods in Northglenn have active Homeowners Associations (HOAs). If you purchase a property in an HOA community, you’ll need to budget for monthly dues, which can range from $200 to $400 or more. These fees often cover maintenance of common areas, trash removal, and other shared expenses.
Utilities and Energy Bills
In addition to housing, you’ll need to account for the cost of basic utilities like electricity, natural gas, water, and trash service. For a 2-bedroom apartment in Northglenn, you can expect to pay around $150 per month for electricity and $50 for natural gas. Water and trash are often included in rent, but if paid separately, budget about $50 per month.
Keep in mind that utility costs can spike during the summer months, as residents run their air conditioning to beat the heat. A typical summer electric bill might be $200 or more. To get a sense of your monthly utility expenses, refer to this estimate table:
| Utility | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $150 |
| Natural Gas | $50 |
| Water/Trash | $50 |
| Internet/Cable | $100 |
| Total | $350 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Food is another major component of your monthly budget. In Northglenn, you can expect to spend around $350 per month on groceries for a single person, or $700 for a couple. This assumes a mix of cooking at home and occasional meals out.
To give you a better idea, here’s what a typical grocery basket might look like:
- 1 gallon of milk: $3.50
- 1 dozen eggs: $2.75
- 1 lb chicken breast: $4.00
- 1 lb ground beef: $5.50
- 1 loaf of bread: $2.50
- 1 lb apples: $2.00
Of course, your actual grocery bill will depend on your dietary preferences and shopping habits. If you frequently dine out or buy specialty items, you may need to budget more for food each month.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Don’t forget to factor in taxes and other mandatory fees when calculating your cost of living in Northglenn. The sales tax rate in the city is 8.5%, which includes state, county, and local taxes. Property taxes are assessed at a rate of around 0.7% of your home’s value. For a $500,000 house, that equates to $3,500 per year, or about $300 per month.
If you own a vehicle, you’ll also need to pay annual registration fees and personal property tax. For a newer car valued at $20,000, the combined cost is approximately $600 per year, or $50 per month.
| Tax/Fee | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Sales Tax (8.5%) | Varies |
| Property Tax (0.7%) | $300 |
| Vehicle Fees | $50 |
Summary Budget Table
To summarize, here’s a sample monthly budget for different household types in Northglenn:
| Expense | Single | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,750 | $1,750 | $2,500 |
| Utilities | $250 | $350 | $500 |
| Groceries | $350 | $700 | $1,200 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $500 |
| Taxes/Fees | $400 | $600 | $800 |
| Total | $2,950 | $3,700 | $5,500 |
Based on these figures, a single person would need to earn around $3,000 per month in gross income (before taxes) to live comfortably in Northglenn. A couple should aim for at least $4,500 monthly, while a family of four will require $6,500 or more. Again, these are general estimates and your actual budget may be higher or lower depending on your lifestyle and spending habits.
Lifestyle Considerations
When evaluating the cost of living in Northglenn, it’s important to consider lifestyle factors as well. For example, Northglenn is known for its relatively short commute times, with an average of 25-30 minutes each way. This can save you money on gas and vehicle maintenance compared to other Denver suburbs.
However, the tradeoff is that homes in Northglenn tend to be smaller and older than those in neighboring cities like Westminster or Thornton. If having a large, modern house is a priority, you may need to pay more or look elsewhere.
On the plus side, Northglenn boasts an extensive network of parks, trails, and open spaces, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors without spending money. The city also has a strong sense of community, with frequent events and festivals throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: How much do I need to earn to live comfortably in Northglenn?
A: A good rule of thumb is to budget at least $3,000 per month in gross income for a single person, $4,500 for a couple, or $6,500 for a family of four. However, your actual needs may vary. - Q: Is Northglenn cheaper than other Denver suburbs?
A: Northglenn is generally more affordable than cities like Westminster or Broomfield, but pricier than some areas further east like Commerce City. It offers a good balance of cost and amenities. - Q: Are utilities expensive in Northglenn?
A: Utility costs in Northglenn are slightly lower than the national average, but can spike during the summer months due to air conditioning use. Budget around $250-$500 per month depending on your household size. - Q: How much is the average rent in Northglenn?
A: As of 2025, the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Northglenn is around $1,750 per month. Prices can range from $1,500 to $2,200 or more depending on the specific property and location. - Q: Are there any hidden costs to living in Northglenn?
A: Be sure to factor in taxes, vehicle registration fees, and HOA dues (if applicable) when budgeting for life in Northglenn. These costs can add several hundred dollars to your monthly expenses. - Q: What salary do you need to buy a house in Northglenn?
A: To afford a typical 3-bedroom house in Northglenn (priced around $500,000), you’ll need a household income of at least $100,000 per year. This assumes a 20% down payment and a monthly mortgage of roughly $2,500.