Aurora, IL vs Ann Arbor, MI: 100 vs 121

$1,535/mo ↓ 1%

Median Rent

$1,552/mo ↑ 1%

$90,109/yr ↑ 11%

Median Income

$81,089/yr ↓ 10%

$260,400 ↓ 40%

Home Value

$435,100 ↑ 67%

$1,591/mo ↓ 3%

Owner Costs

$1,638/mo ↑ 3%

179,867

Population

121,179

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $9,020/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 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, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 121 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Ann Arbor?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $17/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Ann Arbor?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $9,020/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Michigan?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% 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 100 with median rent of $1,535/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.

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

Aurora

Ann Arbor

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons