Thornton, CO
Population 142,878 · Colorado
About Thornton, CO
Thornton is a major city in Colorado with a population of 142,878 residents. The median household income is $100,985 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Thornton is 34.3 years.
Housing in Thornton has a median home value of $482,200 and median monthly rent of $1,810. Of the 51,088 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 36,259 owner-occupied and 13,320 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Thornton is 4.6% and the poverty rate is 7.3%. 32.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 30.9 minutes.
How Thornton Ranks in Colorado
Cost of Living in Thornton, CO
Compared to national averages, Thornton has a median household income of $100,985 (34% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $482,200, which is 97% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,810 is 56% above the US average of $1,163. Within Colorado, Thornton's income is 14% above the state average of $88,514, and home values are 5% above the state median of $457,127.
Why Live in Thornton, CO?
Thornton offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $100,985, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 7.3%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $482,200. However, as a major city, Thornton provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Thornton has a population of 142,878 with a median age of 34.3 years. Compare Thornton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Colorado.
Similar Cities Near Thornton
Cities in Colorado with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lakewood | 156,309 | $85,789 | $548,200 | Compare |
| Arvada | 122,835 | $113,396 | $600,800 | Compare |
| Fort Collins | 169,705 | $83,598 | $548,400 | Compare |
| Westminster | 115,546 | $96,145 | $497,400 | Compare |
| Pueblo | 111,514 | $55,305 | $230,900 | Compare |
| Greeley | 109,421 | $68,650 | $369,600 | Compare |
| Centennial | 107,386 | $128,167 | $626,700 | Compare |
| Boulder | 106,274 | $85,364 | $982,600 | 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 Thornton
What is the population of Thornton, CO?
The population of Thornton, CO is 142,878 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Thornton?
The median household income in Thornton, CO is $100,985 per year.
What is the median home value in Thornton?
The median home value in Thornton, CO is $482,200.
What is the average rent in Thornton?
The median monthly rent in Thornton, CO is $1,810.
What is the unemployment rate in Thornton?
The unemployment rate in Thornton, CO is 4.6%.