Sterling, CO
Population 13,273 · Colorado
About Sterling, CO
Sterling is a mid-sized city in Colorado with a population of 13,273 residents. The median household income is $44,242 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Sterling is 38 years.
Housing in Sterling has a median home value of $205,200 and median monthly rent of $1,052. Of the 5,298 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 2,935 owner-occupied and 2,042 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Sterling is 7.6% and the poverty rate is 15.2%. 14.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 13.2 minutes.
Cost of Living in Sterling, CO
Compared to national averages, Sterling has a median household income of $44,242 (41% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $205,200, which is 16% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,052 is 10% below the US average of $1,163. Within Colorado, Sterling's income is 50% below the state average of $88,514, and home values are 55% below the state median of $457,127.
Why Live in Sterling, CO?
Sterling offers affordable housing with a median home value of $205,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,052/month, and short commute times averaging just 13.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($44,242) that falls below the national average. However, Sterling’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Sterling has a population of 13,273 with a median age of 38 years. Compare Sterling with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Colorado.
Similar Cities Near Sterling
Cities in Colorado with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steamboat Springs | 13,341 | $100,156 | $874,400 | Compare |
| Superior | 13,136 | $157,909 | $795,500 | Compare |
| Fruita | 13,578 | $77,680 | $361,500 | Compare |
| Castle Pines | 12,573 | $189,918 | $827,900 | Compare |
| Lone Tree | 14,136 | $125,699 | $819,800 | Compare |
| Federal Heights | 14,160 | $57,957 | $91,300 | Compare |
| Black Forest | 14,658 | $142,173 | $805,200 | Compare |
| The Pinery | 11,740 | $173,889 | $709,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Colorado
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Sterling
What is the population of Sterling, CO?
The population of Sterling, CO is 13,273 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Sterling?
The median household income in Sterling, CO is $44,242 per year.
What is the median home value in Sterling?
The median home value in Sterling, CO is $205,200.
What is the average rent in Sterling?
The median monthly rent in Sterling, CO is $1,052.
What is the unemployment rate in Sterling?
The unemployment rate in Sterling, CO is 7.6%.