Aurora, IL vs Charleston, SC: 100 vs 128

$1,535/mo ↓ 6%

Median Rent

$1,632/mo ↑ 6%

$90,109/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$90,038/yr ≈ Same

$260,400 ↓ 44%

Home Value

$469,100 ↑ 80%

$1,591/mo ↓ 6%

Owner Costs

$1,688/mo ↑ 6%

179,867

Population

152,014

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Charleston, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 128 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $97/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $1,164/year.

Median household income is $71/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $469,100 in Charleston.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Charleston — common questions

Is Aurora or Charleston cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 128 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Charleston?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Charleston it's $1,632/month — a difference of $97/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Charleston?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $90,038 in Charleston. Median household income is $71/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and South Carolina?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Charleston?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Charleston has a cost index of 128 with rent of $1,632/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Charleston, SC (2026)

Aurora

Charleston

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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