Aurora, IL vs Billings, MT: 100 vs 86

$1,535/mo ↑ 40%

Median Rent

$1,097/mo ↓ 29%

$90,109/yr ↑ 25%

Median Income

$71,855/yr ↓ 20%

$260,400 ↓ 16%

Home Value

$311,800 ↑ 20%

$1,591/mo ↑ 35%

Owner Costs

$1,177/mo ↓ 26%

179,867

Population

118,321

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Billings, MT, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 86 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $438/month cheaper in Billings, saving renters about $5,256/year.

Median household income is $18,254/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $311,800 in Billings.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Billings — common questions

Is Aurora or Billings cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Billings is cheaper to live in with an index of 86 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Billings?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Billings it's $1,097/month — a difference of $438/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Billings?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $71,855 in Billings. Median household income is $18,254/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Montana?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Montana has 6.75% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.74% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Billings?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Billings has a cost index of 86 with rent of $1,097/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Billings, MT (2026)

Aurora

Billings

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons