F
45%
Overall NAT. AVG.
7%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
132%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Centennial Colorado National
Cost of living145115100
Groceries107104100
Health care108107100
Housing232136100
Transportation109106100
Utilities108108100
Lifestyle & Entertainment109107100
Household Items102105100
Education & Childcare108111100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Centennial, CO

Understanding the cost of living in Centennial can help future residents assess whether their current financial situation aligns with the expenses they will encounter. It enables them to plan for potential changes in their budget and lifestyle. The Centennial cost of living index is 145, which is 45% higher than the national average. The cost of living index is calculated by taking into account multiple categories, which encompass both the cost of everyday expenditures and larger expenses as well.

If you value affordability in your search for a new place to live, Centennial may not be the most suitable option, as it stands out as one of the priciest areas in the entire United States. Only a small fraction of regions have a cost of living that is more than 20% higher than the national average, and regrettably, Centennial falls into this category, which may not align with your desire for an affordable place to call home.

When it comes to the cost of living in Centennial, housing costs are a real heavyweight, often hogging a significant chunk of your earnings. Sadly, in this area, housing expenses for both buying and renting were 132.1% more expensive compared to your average city. That means you'll be shelling out more for homes, rents, mortgage rates and insurance.

What Do Locals Say About the Cost of Living in Centennial?

Locals have the inside scoop on their city. So, we polled 8 residents in Centennial to learn how they view the cost of living. We asked how they felt about the cost of living in their area, and if they thought that prices were increasing, decreasing or staying the same. The verdict? 38% find it reasonable with decreasing prices, but 63% think it's quite pricey, with prices that continue to rise.

Is Centennial Affordable?

Is Centennial affordable? This is a pivotal question, especially when mulling over a move, as affordability carries substantial weight in your decision-making process. Factors such as the cost of living index (discussed earlier), housing expenses and income levels all contribute to a location's affordability. For instance, in Centennial, the median home price is 154.5% higher than the national average and monthly rent prices are 80.1% higher than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Centennial boasting a median household income of $162,732, 100.1% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Centennial?

Subsidies: Some cities and states may extend government subsidies or aid programs aimed at reducing the cost of living for their residents. These initiatives encompass diverse forms of support, including Medicare, Medicaid, housing subsidies, low-income home energy assistance programs, school lunch programs, supplemental nutrition assistance programs, student loans, electric vehicle tax credits, affordable care act subsidies and farm subsidies. Regions with limited subsidy provisions may witness an increase in their overall cost of living.

Taxes: Cities that impose higher taxes, including sales and income taxes, can contribute to an escalated cost of living. The added expense of taxes on everyday goods like clothing and food naturally results in higher overall costs. Similarly, a higher income tax rate can further elevate the cost of living. In Centennial, the general sales tax rate starts at 2.9%, and income tax rates begin at 4.4%.

Urbanization: Larger, urban areas boasting abundant amenities and robust employment prospects often exhibit a heightened cost of living, driven by the increased demand for services and residential relocation. Consequently, this leads to elevated home prices and higher rental rates. In contrast, sparsely populated rural locales or regions marked by diminished demand typically offer a more limited range of amenities and experience slower job market expansion. This translates into a more affordable cost of living.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living data for Centennial shown above is based on a U.S. average baseline score of 100, making it easier to compare how far your dollar may go from one city to another. Housing uses U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all remaining values are AI-assisted estimates informed by regional pricing, climate, transportation dynamics, and local economic factors. These scores are best used for directional comparisons between cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Centennial is 26% higher than the Colorado average
  • The cost of living in Centennial is 45% higher than the national average
  • Centennial housing is 132% higher than the national average
  • Colorado general sales tax is 43% lower than the national average
  • Colorado state income tax is 69% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Centennial

See all the best places to live around Centennial

Compare Centennial, CO Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$180,568$15,047$4,213$5,418
      Renters$112,172$9,348$2,617$3,365
      The percentage of monthly income spent on housing related expenses can help predict the affordability of housing in Centennial, CO, as well as what the overall cost of living might be. Generally, a good rule to follow is that the debt-to-income (DTI) level you want to maintain is 28 percent or less of your income on your rent or mortgage payments and not more than 36 percent of income on all expenses and debts. In Centennial, homeowners have a median income of $180,568. Using that number, a maximum of $4,213 per month should be allocated to housing expenses. For those who are renting instead of owning, the median income is $112,172, which means there is a maximum of $2,617 to be spent on the costs of renting a home or apartment.

      Colorado Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Colorado 2.9% 10%

      Colorado Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Colorado 4.4% 4.4%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Glendale CDP, CO801099.1%
      Franktown, CO2211055.3%
      Lakeside, CO69010.0%
      North Washington, CO676990.9%
      Sheridan, CO6,19511616.0%
      Centennial, CO113,79514544.8%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Downey, CA114,05616565.3%
      Pompano Beach, FL114,06811111.0%
      Lowell, MA114,17012625.9%
      West Palm Beach, FL113,36311616.4%
      Lakeland, FL114,2881032.5%
      Centennial, CO113,79514544.8%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.