Cost of Living in Boulder
Premium lifestyle anchor · Independent city
Housing
Housing Market
- Median Home Price
- ~$940K+
- Data Year
- 2026
Taxes
Tax Rates
- Property Tax Rate
- ~0.55–0.60% (varies by taxing district · mill levy ~65–95 total)
- Sales Tax Rate
- 8.845% combined (City 3.86% + State + County + RTD)
- Vehicle Registration
- Standard Colorado
- State Income Tax Impact
- 4.4% flat
- Cost of Living vs National
- 41% above national average (housing-driven)
Utilities
Monthly Costs
- Water Provider
- City of Boulder Utilities
- Electric & Gas
- Xcel Energy (electric & gas)
- Internet Providers
- Comcast/Xfinity, CenturyLink/Lumen fiber, T-Mobile Home Internet
- Trash & Recycling
- City of Boulder services — curbside recycling + composting
- Snow Removal
- City plows arterials; HOAs and residents handle local streets
Income
Income & Cost Context
- Cost of Living Index
- 141 (BestPlaces · 41% above national average)
- Avg Childcare Cost
- $1,500–$2,800/mo (infant care at high end)
Common Questions
FAQ — Boulder
What is the median home price in Boulder?
Boulder’s median home price is approximately $940K or higher as of 2026. Entry-level single-family homes often start at $1M+. The premium reflects proximity to CU Boulder, the Flatirons, and access to Boulder Valley School District (#2 in CO).
What is the cost of living in Boulder?
Boulder’s cost of living index is 141, or 41% above the national average, driven primarily by housing costs. The property tax rate ranges from 0.55% to 0.60% depending on taxing district, and the combined sales tax rate is 8.845%. Colorado has a flat 4.4% state income tax rate.