Aurora, IL vs Cary, NC: 100 vs 135

$1,535/mo ↓ 5%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 6%

$90,109/yr ↓ 30%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 44%

$260,400 ↓ 50%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 102%

$1,591/mo ↓ 9%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 10%

179,867

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $86/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $1,032/year.

Median household income is $39,290/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Cary slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Cary — common questions

Is Aurora or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Cary?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $86/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Cary?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $39,290/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and North Carolina?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Cary has a cost index of 135 with rent of $1,621/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Cary, NC (2026)

Aurora

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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