Side-by-side comparison of home prices, mortgage payments, and housing costs between Aurora and Fort Collins, Colorado. Using Colorado's 0.51% property tax rate and $3,200/year insurance. Updated for 2026.
Aurora edges out Fort Collins in affordability, saving you roughly $389/month on total housing costs. Both cities are in Colorado, so property tax rates and insurance costs are the same — the difference comes down to home prices and what you get for your money in each market.
Estimated PITI payments assuming 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed mortgage with PMI. Uses Colorado's 0.51% property tax rate.
Buying in Aurora saves you approximately $389/month ($4,668/year) compared to Fort Collins, based on median home prices with identical loan terms.
Aurora is the better choice for first-time buyers, with a median price of $465K versus $525K in Fort Collins. That's $60K less to save for a down payment. You'd need roughly $16K for an FHA 3.5% down payment in Aurora, compared to $18K in Fort Collins. Colorado offers the CHFA Down Payment Assistance program (Up to $25,000 second mortgage) which applies in both cities.
Aurora has the better price-to-rent ratio at 23.9x versus 26.0x in Fort Collins. A lower ratio generally signals better rental income relative to purchase price. Average rent in Aurora is $1,620/month on a $465K median home, making it a stronger candidate for buy-and-rent investors.
Aurora (pop. 386,261) offers more amenities, schools, and services typical of a larger city, while Fort Collins (pop. 169,810) may offer a quieter, more community-oriented lifestyle. Aurora offers both more options and lower housing costs, making it attractive for families who want urban amenities without a premium price.