Aurora, CO vs Thornton, CO

Aurora, CO and Thornton, CO have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.5% difference in their overall index. Aurora scores 127 while Thornton scores 131 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Aurora is $1,759/month compared to $1,810/month in Thornton — a 3% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Aurora is more affordable at $444,500 median vs $482,200.

Median household income in Aurora is $84,320 compared to $100,985 in Thornton (-16.5%). While Thornton is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Aurora spend roughly 25% of their income on rent, more than the 21.5% in Thornton.