Cost of Living in Sterling, CO
Population 13,273 · Colorado · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
At $44,242, median household incomes in Sterling land roughly 41% below the US median, a gap that tends to persist across local labor-market indicators. At 7.6%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Geographically, Sterling lies roughly 85 miles east of the nearest major metro, Greeley. Median home values run roughly 44% lower than Greeley's $370,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Sterling
The median home value in Sterling is $205,200 — 33% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,052/month, 20% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $44,242/year is 41% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 7.6%, above the national average of 4.8%. Colorado's top state income tax rate is 4.4% and the combined sales tax is 7.8%. Overall, Sterling has a cost of living index of 72 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 28% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Sterling, CO?
Sterling has a cost index of 72 (100 = national average). It is 28% below the national average.
What is average rent in Sterling, CO?
The median gross rent in Sterling is $1,052 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Sterling?
The median home value in Sterling is $205,200 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Sterling?
The median household income in Sterling is $44,242 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Sterling, CO?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Sterling is 7.8%. The Colorado state income tax top rate is 4.4%.
Is Sterling, CO affordable?
Yes, Sterling is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 72 — about 28% below the US national average of 100.
Sterling at a Glance
- Population
- 13,273
- Median Income
- $44,242
- Home Value
- $205,200
- Median Rent
- $1,052/mo
- Unemployment
- 7.6%
- Sales Tax
- 7.8%
Explore county-level cost of living data
Colorado Rankings
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