Aurora, CO vs Salem, OR: 130 vs 105

$1,759/mo ↑ 33%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↓ 25%

$84,320/yr ↑ 17%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↓ 15%

$444,500 ↑ 16%

Home Value

$382,400 ↓ 14%

$1,762/mo ↑ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↓ 18%

390,201

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, CO and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 130 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $436/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $5,232/year.

Median household income is $12,420/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $444,500 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Aurora slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Salem — common questions

Is Aurora or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 130 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Salem?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,759/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $436/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Salem?

Median household income is $84,320 in Aurora and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $12,420/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Colorado and Oregon?

Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 130 with median rent of $1,759/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, CO vs Salem, OR (2026)

Aurora

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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