Westminster, CO vs. Broomfield, CO: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Relocating to the Denver metro area? Housing costs in Westminster are nearly 15% lower than in neighboring Broomfield. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Westminster and Broomfield, perfect for families, professionals, or anyone weighing the real-life expenses of these two Colorado cities in 2025.
Housing Costs
The median home price in Westminster is $525,000 compared to $610,000 in Broomfield. Typical housing costs:
| Housing Type | Westminster | Broomfield |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,800 | $2,100 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $2,400 | $2,800 |
🏆 Winner: Westminster offers more affordable housing, with savings of $300-400 per month on average.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Monthly utility bills in Westminster and Broomfield are comparable, typically ranging from $180-250 for a 2BR apartment. Both cities experience cold winters and mild summers. Xcel Energy provides electric and gas service, with optional renewable energy and time-of-use plans to help manage costs.
🏆 Winner: It’s a tie! Utility costs are similar between the two cities.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Expect to spend around $400 per month on groceries for a single adult in either Westminster or Broomfield. Restaurant prices are also comparable, with a nice dinner out costing $30-40 per person on average.
One notable difference: Broomfield’s sales tax rate is 8.15% compared to Westminster’s 8.35%. Over time, Broomfield’s slightly lower sales tax can add up to modest savings on daily purchases.
🏆 Winner: Broomfield edges out Westminster thanks to a 0.2% lower sales tax rate.
Taxes and Fees
Colorado assesses a flat 4.4% income tax rate statewide. Property taxes are also similar between the two cities:
- Westminster’s property tax rate is 0.738%
- Broomfield’s property tax rate is 0.746%
In Westminster, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash service. Broomfield has slightly higher water and sewer fees.
🏆 Winner: Westminster takes the lead with marginally lower property taxes and HOA fees that frequently cover extra amenities.
Cost Summary
| Monthly Expense | Westminster | Broomfield |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR home) | $2,400 | $2,800 |
| Utilities | $220 | $220 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $130 | $130 |
| Taxes (property) | $322 | $380 |
| Miscellaneous | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,722 | $4,180 |
Lifestyle Fit
While Westminster offers lower housing costs, Broomfield boasts a vibrant downtown area with walkable shops and restaurants. Westminster has more expansive outdoor recreation, with over 2,900 acres of open space. Commute times are 5-10 minutes longer from Westminster.
Broomfield sits at a slightly higher elevation, so it averages a few degrees cooler than Westminster year-round. Expect more snow in Broomfield — around 60 inches per year compared to Westminster’s 45 inches.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Westminster more affordable than Broomfield?
- Which city has lower rent?
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Yes, Westminster offers a lower overall cost of living, primarily due to more affordable housing. A household moving from Broomfield to Westminster might save $400/month on housing alone.
Westminster has lower rental rates, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $1,800/month compared to $2,100/month in Broomfield.
The median home price in Westminster is $525,000 versus $610,000 in Broomfield, so your mortgage payment will generally be lower in Westminster.
The Bottom Line
While Westminster and Broomfield share many similarities, Westminster comes out ahead for affordability, particularly in housing costs. Broomfield offers perks like a walkable downtown and slightly lower sales tax, but expect to pay more for the privilege of homeownership.
Ultimately, your lifestyle priorities will determine which city is the best fit. Outdoor enthusiasts may prefer Westminster’s ample open space, while those who prioritize a trendier vibe might feel more at home in Broomfield. Be sure to check out our Monthly Budget Examples for Westminster Residents and full Westminster Cost of Living Guide as you evaluate your options!