Aurora, IL vs Alexandria, VA: 100 vs 173

$1,535/mo ↓ 24%

Median Rent

$2,031/mo ↑ 32%

$90,109/yr ↓ 21%

Median Income

$113,638/yr ↑ 26%

$260,400 ↓ 63%

Home Value

$696,800 ↑ 168%

$1,591/mo ↓ 27%

Owner Costs

$2,173/mo ↑ 37%

179,867

Population

156,788

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Alexandria, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 173 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $496/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $5,952/year.

Median household income is $23,529/year higher in Alexandria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $696,800 in Alexandria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Alexandria — common questions

Is Aurora or Alexandria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 173 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Alexandria?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Alexandria it's $2,031/month — a difference of $496/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Alexandria?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $113,638 in Alexandria. Median household income is $23,529/year higher in Alexandria.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Virginia?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Alexandria?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Alexandria has a cost index of 173 with rent of $2,031/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Alexandria, VA (2026)

Aurora

Alexandria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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