Cost of Living in Littleton, CO
A comprehensive financial guide to housing, taxes, and everyday expenses in the Southwest Denver Metro area.
Is Littleton Expensive?
Littleton offers a premium Colorado lifestyle with access to top-rated schools, extensive trail systems, and stunning mountain views. Because of its high quality of life and proximity to both Denver and the foothills, the cost of living in Littleton is generally higher than the national average, primarily driven by housing costs.
However, compared to other highly desirable Denver suburbs like Boulder or certain parts of Highlands Ranch, Littleton can offer competitive value, especially when factoring in Colorado's relatively low property tax rates.
2026 Cost of Living: Littleton vs. Highlands Ranch vs. Denver Metro
A side-by-side comparison of the key cost drivers across Littleton, Highlands Ranch, and the broader Denver metro area. Data reflects 2026 market conditions.
| Metric | Littleton, CO | Highlands Ranch, CO | Denver Metro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price (SFD) | $725,000 | $740,000 | $730,000 |
| Median Attached Home Price | $409,000 | $445,000 | $420,000 |
| Property Tax Rate | 0.5–0.75% | 0.6–0.75% | 0.55–0.70% |
| Primary County | Arapahoe / Jefferson | Douglas | Denver / Multiple |
| Utility Averages (monthly) | $180–$240 | $190–$250 | $185–$245 |
| Avg. School Rating (GreatSchools) | 7–9 | 8–9 | 5–8 |
| State Income Tax (flat) | 4.40% | 4.40% | 4.40% |
Median prices reflect 2026 MLS data for single-family detached (SFD) and attached homes. Property tax rates vary by county, district, and special assessments. School ratings via GreatSchools.org.
Property Tax Rates: Arapahoe vs. Jefferson County
Littleton spans two counties, and the property tax difference matters. Arapahoe County (east Littleton, ZIP 80120–80122) generally has lower mill levies, while Jefferson County (west Littleton, ZIP 80123–80127, including Ken Caryl) has slightly higher rates due to fire district and open space bonds.
Arapahoe County
~0.5–0.6%
East Littleton, Downtown, Columbine — lower mill levies
Jefferson County
~0.6–0.75%
West Littleton, Ken Caryl, Bow Mar — fire district + open space bonds
Housing & Real Estate
Housing is the largest factor in Littleton's cost of living. The market features a wide range of properties, from established mid-century homes to luxury foothills estates.
Single-Family Homes
Typically range from the $500s for older, established neighborhoods to well over $1M+ for luxury homes in communities like Ken Caryl Valley or Ravenna.
Condos & Townhomes
Attached homes generally offer a more accessible entry point, typically ranging from the mid-$300s to $600s, depending on age and amenities.
Property Taxes & Insurance
One of the significant financial benefits of living in Colorado is the relatively low property tax rate compared to the national average. In Littleton, property taxes generally hover around 0.60% to 0.75% of the home's assessed value, though this varies slightly depending on whether you are in Jefferson, Arapahoe, or Douglas County.
Homeowners insurance in Colorado has seen increases recently due to hail and wildfire risks in the state. Buyers should budget accordingly and shop for quotes early in the buying process.
Read our full guide to Littleton Property TaxesEveryday Expenses
Frequently Asked Questions
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Data reflects Littleton CO zip codes · Updated monthly
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