Let the numbers do the talking.
Aurora, CO vs Fort Collins, CO
Aurora, CO vs Fort Collins, CO: What the data shows
Aurora, CO is in Aurora, CO while Fort Collins, CO is in Fort Collins, CO — both in the same state. On home prices, Aurora, CO is the more affordable option at $360,800 median — $133,900 less than Fort Collins, CO's $494,700. WYLT rates Aurora, CO as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Fort Collins, CO as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Aurora, CO has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Fort Collins, CO has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Aurora, CO has Low flood risk and Fort Collins, CO has Low flood risk.
Aurora, CO is the more walkable neighborhood. Aurora, CO scores 43/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Fort Collins, CO's 24/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Fort Collins, CO has the higher school rating — Aurora, CO rates 8/10 and Fort Collins, CO rates 8.8/10.
| Category | Aurora, CO | Fort Collins, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $361K ✓ Lower price | $495K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $56K ✓ Higher income | $52K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 43/100 ✓ More walkable | 24/100 |
| Transit Score | 39/100 ✓ Better transit | 30/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 65/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 19 min ✓ Shorter commute | 78 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 | 8.8/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Young families with school needsCommuters to DenverRenters looking for affordability | young professionalscollege studentsoutdoor enthusiasts |
Bottom line
For families with school needs or commuters to Denver, Aurora's proximity and decent schools make it a slightly better choice. However, be prepared to sacrifice on affordability and walkability. For those prioritizing outdoor activities and a moderate cost of living, Fort Collins offers a more balanced lifestyle, despite its lengthy commute to Denver.
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