Aurora, IL vs Downey, CA: 100 vs 169

$1,535/mo ↓ 19%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 23%

$90,109/yr ↑ 3%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↓ 3%

$260,400 ↓ 64%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 180%

$1,591/mo ↓ 20%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 26%

179,867

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $357/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $4,284/year.

Median household income is $2,709/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Downey — common questions

Is Aurora or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Downey?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $357/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Downey?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $2,709/year higher in Aurora.

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 Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Aurora

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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