Aurora, IL vs Costa Mesa, CA: 100 vs 228

$1,535/mo ↓ 36%

Median Rent

$2,395/mo ↑ 56%

$90,109/yr ↓ 18%

Median Income

$110,073/yr ↑ 22%

$260,400 ↓ 75%

Home Value

$1,054,700 ↑ 305%

$1,591/mo ↓ 35%

Owner Costs

$2,462/mo ↑ 55%

179,867

Population

110,538

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Costa Mesa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 228 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $860/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $10,320/year.

Median household income is $19,964/year higher in Costa Mesa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $1,054,700 in Costa Mesa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Costa Mesa — common questions

Is Aurora or Costa Mesa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 228 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Costa Mesa?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Costa Mesa it's $2,395/month — a difference of $860/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Costa Mesa?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $110,073 in Costa Mesa. Median household income is $19,964/year higher in Costa Mesa.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and California?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Costa Mesa?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Costa Mesa has a cost index of 228 with rent of $2,395/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Costa Mesa, CA (2026)

Aurora

Costa Mesa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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