Aurora, IL vs Abilene, TX: 100 vs 71

$1,535/mo ↑ 39%

Median Rent

$1,106/mo ↓ 28%

$90,109/yr ↑ 44%

Median Income

$62,720/yr ↓ 30%

$260,400 ↑ 46%

Home Value

$178,900 ↓ 31%

$1,591/mo ↑ 43%

Owner Costs

$1,114/mo ↓ 30%

179,867

Population

127,130

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Abilene, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 71 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $429/month cheaper in Abilene, saving renters about $5,148/year.

Median household income is $27,389/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $178,900 in Abilene.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Abilene residents a significant tax advantage over Illinois's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Abilene — common questions

Is Aurora or Abilene cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Abilene is cheaper to live in with an index of 71 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Abilene?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Abilene it's $1,106/month — a difference of $429/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Abilene?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $62,720 in Abilene. Median household income is $27,389/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Texas?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Abilene?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Abilene has a cost index of 71 with rent of $1,106/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Abilene, TX (2026)

Aurora

Abilene

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons