Demographic Overview

With over 145,000 people, Thornton is the 5th largest city in Colorado. Thornton plans to grow to approximately 250,000 people and is well-prepared for this future growth, having invested hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure in the city, including a water project that will provide Thornton with all the water it needs for future growth.

The City of Thornton is located primarily on the east side of I-25 between 84th Avenue and Highway 7. With more than 1,400 acres of developable commercial land along the I-25 corridor, Thornton offers strong opportunities for commercial growth and easy access via eight (8) I-25 interchanges, three (3) along E-470, and close proximity to I-70, US 36, and Denver International Airport (20 minutes). The city is also served by three stations along the FasTracks North Line and is just 10 miles north of downtown Denver and one hour from the Rocky Mountains.

Thornton is experiencing significant commercial activity across all sectors. New retail destinations such as Chicken N Pickle and In-N-Out Burger have recently opened, with more underway including K1 Speed and ViewHouse. Companies like Ferguson and Izzio have relocated to Thornton, and nearly 3 million square feet of employment space is under construction for future employers.

Within 45 miles, nine (9) major universities and colleges, as well as the broader metro Denver workforce of over 2 million, support Thornton’s growing business community.

Thornton Statistics and Demographics

• 36 Square Miles
• Population: 147,989
• Avg HH Income: $133,878
• Median Age: 36.2
• Avg Home Value: $561,930

Source: ESRI Business Analyst – 12/9/2025