Cost of Living: Aurora, CO vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Aurora

Colorado
130
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Aurora is 7% more expensive than Ann Arbor.

$1,759/mo ↑ 13%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↓ 12%
$84,320/yr ↑ 4%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↓ 4%
$444,500 ↑ 2%
Home Value
$435,100 ↓ 2%
$1,762/mo ↑ 8%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↓ 7%
390,201
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

4.4%
Income Tax
4.25%
2.9%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.51%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

25.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, CO and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 130 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $207/month cheaper in Ann Arbor, saving renters about $2,484/year.

Median household income is $3,231/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $444,500 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Ann Arbor slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Aurora or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Ann Arbor is cheaper to live in with an index of 121 compared to 130 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Aurora and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Aurora is $1,759/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $207/month.
Which city has higher income, Aurora or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $84,320 in Aurora and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $3,231/year higher in Aurora.
How do taxes compare between Colorado and Michigan?
Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Aurora or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 130 with median rent of $1,759/mo, while Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,552/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Aurora details → View Ann Arbor details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Aurora and Ann Arbor

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