Aurora, IL vs Cedar Rapids, IA: 100 vs 65

$1,535/mo ↑ 66%

Median Rent

$925/mo ↓ 40%

$90,109/yr ↑ 33%

Median Income

$67,859/yr ↓ 25%

$260,400 ↑ 47%

Home Value

$177,100 ↓ 32%

$1,591/mo ↑ 47%

Owner Costs

$1,084/mo ↓ 32%

179,867

Population

136,859

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Cedar Rapids, IA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $610/month cheaper in Cedar Rapids, saving renters about $7,320/year.

Median household income is $22,250/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $177,100 in Cedar Rapids.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Cedar Rapids — common questions

Is Aurora or Cedar Rapids cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Cedar Rapids is cheaper to live in with an index of 65 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Cedar Rapids?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Cedar Rapids it's $925/month — a difference of $610/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Cedar Rapids?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $67,859 in Cedar Rapids. Median household income is $22,250/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Iowa?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Iowa has 5.7% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.57% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Cedar Rapids?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Cedar Rapids has a cost index of 65 with rent of $925/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Cedar Rapids, IA (2026)

Aurora

Cedar Rapids

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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