Clifton, CO vs Cortez, CO

Clifton, CO and Cortez, CO have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2.6% difference in their overall index. Clifton scores 83 while Cortez scores 85 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 Clifton is $1,035/month compared to $1,028/month in Cortez — a 1% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Cortez is more affordable at $226,700 median vs $234,200.

Median household income in Clifton is $54,301 compared to $51,377 in Cortez (+5.7%). Clifton offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Clifton spend roughly 22.9% of their income on rent, less than the 24% in Cortez.