Let the numbers do the talking.
Highland, CO vs Thornton, CO
Highland, CO vs Thornton, CO: What the data shows
Highland, CO is in Highland, CO while Thornton, CO is in Thornton, CO — both in the same state. On home prices, Thornton, CO is the more affordable option at $349,600 median — $343,100 less than Highland, CO's $692,700. WYLT rates Highland, CO as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Thornton, CO as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Highland, CO has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Thornton, CO has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Highland, CO has Low flood risk and Thornton, CO has High flood risk.
Highland, CO is the more walkable neighborhood. Highland, CO scores 55/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Thornton, CO's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Thornton, CO has the higher school rating — Highland, CO rates 8/10 and Thornton, CO rates 8.2/10.
| Category | Highland, CO | Thornton, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $693K | $350K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $110K ✓ Higher income | $74K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 55/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 10/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 8 min ✓ Shorter commute | 26 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 | 8.2/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with kids looking for good schoolsProfessionals who commute to DenverHome buyers who prioritize stability over affordability | Families with childrenDenver commutersFirst‑time home buyers |
Bottom line
Highland, CO is the better choice for families with kids looking for good schools, professionals who commute to Denver, and remote workers prioritizing stability and safety. However, for first-time home buyers and those on a tight budget, who value affordability over commute time, Thornton, CO might be a slightly more accessible option despite its drawbacks. Ultimately, both neighborhoods have their trade-offs, and buyers should carefully weigh their priorities before making a decision.
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