Thornton, CO
Population 142,878 · Colorado
About Thornton, CO
Thornton is a major city located in Colorado with a population of 142,878 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $100,985 per year, which is 34% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.3 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Thornton features a median home value of $482,200, which is 97% above the national median of $244,900. This places Thornton in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,810, 56% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 51,088 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (36,259 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (13,320 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Thornton shows an unemployment rate of 4.6%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 7.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Thornton have an average one-way commute time of 30.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.2% of Thornton residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 30.0% White, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, and 6.6% Asian residents, with 14.5% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Thornton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Thornton
What is the population of Thornton, CO?
The population of Thornton, CO is 142,878 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Colorado.
What is the median household income in Thornton?
The median household income in Thornton, CO is $100,985 per year, which is 34% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Thornton?
The median home value in Thornton, CO is $482,200, which is 97% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Thornton?
The median monthly rent in Thornton, CO is $1,810, which is 56% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Thornton?
The unemployment rate in Thornton, CO is 4.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Thornton, CO a good place to live?
Thornton offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 142,878 and a median age of 34.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Thornton, CO?
32.2% of residents in Thornton aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Thornton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Thornton, CO: median home value is $482,200 (97% above national), median rent is $1,810/month, and median household income is $100,985. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Thornton?
The poverty rate in Thornton, CO is 7.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Thornton, CO?
Thornton's population is 30.0% White, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, 6.6% Asian, and 1.9% two or more races. 14.5% of residents are foreign-born.