16 Pros and Cons of Living in Thornton, CO

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Moving is like dying…

Unless, of course, you’re thinking of relocating to Colorado.

That’s a different story!

When deciding where in Colorado to go, consider what Thornton has to offer.

This charming, suburban city is only 10 miles from Denver.

You can live in a picturesque country setting without giving up the perks that city life has to offer.

Naturally, you should learn more about Thornton before uprooting your family.

Here are some of the pros and cons of living in this close-knit community.

Pros of Living in Thornton, CO

Let’s start with the pros.

If you’re keen on moving to Thornton, you’ll want to hear the good stuff first.

1. Good Job Market

The Thornton job market is booming and expected to grow by 47% in the future.

Last year alone saw a 2.8% increase in jobs with average annual earnings of approximately $66,000.

Mining, utilities, oil & gas extraction, healthcare, and life sciences are some of the high-paying industries in the area.

Some key employers are HealthOne, North Suburban Medical Center, Dish, and the Community Reach Center.

Thornton is a good place to expand your career or start a new one.

2. Closeness to Denver

In Thornton, you’re never far from the city nightlife as Denver is a mere 10 miles away.

You can commute to Denver for work and come home to the beauty and comfort of your suburban home.

You may find more opportunities for employment in Denver or open doors to grow your business or expand your career.

Cultural events and attractions, fine dining, and other forms of entertainment are well within your reach.

There’s also access to public transport to give your car a rest.

3. Low Population

Thornton is a close-knit community of approximately 141,000 people.

A low population means fewer problems with overcrowding.

The city’s 2500+ acres of open spaces and parklands provide ample room for fun and exercise.

You’ll also enjoy a slower pace of life.

With fewer people, it’s easier to get around when shopping, running errands, visiting friends, or dining out.

You can even find shops, libraries, parks, and other facilities within easy walking distance of your home.

4. Family-Friendly Environment

Thornton is a family-friendly city where residents can live a high quality of life.

There’s no shortage of recreational activities and attractions for families to enjoy.

The city is home to 81 natural parks where your kids can enjoy hours of quality outdoor fun.

There’s also Boondocks Fun Center (ziplining, laser tag), Waterworld, and Carpenter Recreation Center for the sports buffs in your family.

Parents will enjoy shopping at the Denver Premium Outlets or Thornton Town Center for quality goods for their families.

5. Festivals

Festive occasions are for celebrating and no one does it better than the Thornton community.

The city hosts three major festivals annually where all are welcome.

Thorntonfest is celebrated in May with carnival rides, wall climbing, live music, a car show, and other activities.

Next comes Harvestfest in September where you can participate in a cultural expedition, fishing derby, skateboarding competition, biking, and rollerblading.

In December, there’s Winterfest which features ice skating, tree decorating contests, a 5K run, and a mini-Santa’s village.

In between, you can enjoy Independence Day fireworks and Trunk or Treat at Halloween.

6. Open Green Spaces

Thornton is known for its majestic parks and lush, green spaces for outdoor pleasure and fun.

There are dog parks, hiking parks, skate parks, kids’ playgrounds, and areas to picnic with the family.

Carpenter Park, Trail Winds, Pecos Park, Yorkborough Park, and Hunter’s Glen Lake Park are some popular choices.

You’ll also find places with majestic views of the Rockies and miles and miles of trails to explore.

Hiking, biking, swimming, golfing, rollerblading, and sports play are just a few of the many outdoor activities you can enjoy.

7. A Food Lover’s Paradise

Surprisingly enough, Thornton, CO is a food lover’s delight.

There are eateries galore to satisfy even the pickiest of palates.

You can choose from American classics like prime rib and hand-cut steaks cooked to perfection.

Or seek out a food truck offering authentic Mexican, Cuban, Thai, or Korean cuisine for your exotic dining pleasure.

Thornton also features one of the first In-N-Out Burger places in Colorado where animal-style burgers are all the rage.

8. Change of Seasons

Thornton, CO has a 4-season climate that doesn’t disappoint.

Each season has its unique qualities that you’re sure to love.

From cool spring breezes and wildflowers to warm summer months to colorful fall foliage to a snowy winter wonderland, Thornton has it all.

Temperatures can reach as high as 90 degrees F in summer and as low as 20 degrees in winter.

Clear skies and moderate rainfall are normal with an average of 300 days of sunshine annually.

Little variation in temperatures across the seasons makes Thornton a virtual outdoor playground year-round.

Cons of Living in Thornton, CO

So, what could make Thornton an unfavorable place to live?

Here are some of the disadvantages of living in this mid-sized, suburban town:

1. Low School Rating

The public schools in Thornton, it seems, leave something to be desired.

According to proficiency test score averages, Thornton public schools fall short, below both the state and national averages.

There are a total of 24 public schools in Thornton and three private schools, which appear to be higher-performing.

Thornton’s schools have a 20:1 student-teacher classroom ratio.

Approximately 82% of Thornton students have completed a high school education.

Around 26.9% have graduated from college with a Bachelor’s degree.

The city itself has no universities or colleges, but there are institutions of higher learning nearby in Denver and Boulder.

2. High Cost of Living

Living in Thornton can be expensive.

The cost of living in this suburban city is 7% higher than the national average.

Property prices are 29% more than the national average.

Necessities like housing, food, clothing, transport, utilities, and childcare will cost you more here than in other places in the country.

Thornton has a sales tax of 8.8% and a state income tax of $4.40% which also contributes to the high cost of living.

To live here comfortably, it’s estimated you’d need an individual income of at least $50,000+ annually.

3. High Property Costs

Home costs in Thornton are among the highest in the country.

In 2023, the average price of a single-family 3-bedroom home in Thornton was around $520,000.

This is almost $200,000 more than the $350,000 national average.

Home prices will vary depending on the location of the property.

Eastlake, Village at North Creek, Mayfield, and Rolling Hills at Thorncreek are some good neighborhoods to explore.

4. High Rental Costs

High rental costs are another strike against living in Thornton.

Depending on your income, you may not be able to afford to rent an apartment on your own.

Apartment rentals in 2023 cost between $1,480 and $1,950, with studios being the cheapest you can get.

On average, a one-bedroom apartment costs around $1,600 a month while a two-bedroom goes for $1,950.

Young professionals and college students can counter these costs by sharing an apartment with others.

5. Crime

Thornton’s overall crime rate is a whopping 46% higher than the U.S. average.

But this is due largely to a high level of property crime in the area.

Violent crime in Thornton is quite low, ranking 26% lower than the U.S. average.

Property crime consists of such incidents as theft, burglary, shoplifting, larceny, and vandalism.

In Thornton, you’re safer from violent crime than you are from property crime.

If you decide to move to Thornton, keep a close watch over your home, goods, and car!

6. Poor Water Quality

Though drinkable, the quality of Thorton’s water supply is lacking.

Recent reports show that PFA chemicals have been found in the water.

PFAs are manufactured chemicals that have been used in various industries since the 1940s.

Over time, these chemicals can seep into the environment and water sources used for drinking.

The city is currently taking action to rectify the problem.

In the meantime, Thornton residents can improve their water quality by installing water filters in their homes.

7. Heavy Traffic

Due to its proximity to Denver, heavy commuter traffic can be a problem.

It’s not uncommon for residents to get stuck in congested rush hour traffic.

Heavy traffic can prolong your commute time, which can be very frustrating if you need to be in Denver by a certain hour.

On average, a commute from Thornton to Denver takes almost 35 minutes.

This is the longest commute in the state of Colorado and the 8th longest commute in the country.

Driving in winter ice and snow can further aggravate the problem.

8. Long, Cold Winters

If you’re not a fan of cold winters, Thornton may not be the place for you.

Winter can start as early as October and last through April.

Temperatures can drop into the low 20s during winter and be accompanied by ice and snow.

If you’re not used to driving in these conditions, you may need to stay home!

Pros and Cons of Living in Thornton, CO – Summary Table

Thornton Safety Overview

READ THE FULL REPORT: Thornton Safety Review

Safety Index:

82

• OVERALL RISK: LOW
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
• MUGGING RISK: LOW
• TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
• SCAMS RISK: LOW
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW