Aurora, IL vs Elgin, IL: 100 vs 90

$1,535/mo ↑ 22%

Median Rent

$1,260/mo ↓ 18%

$90,109/yr ↑ 2%

Median Income

$88,316/yr ↓ 2%

$260,400 ↑ 3%

Home Value

$252,400 ↓ 3%

$1,591/mo ↑ 6%

Owner Costs

$1,502/mo ↓ 6%

179,867

Population

114,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $275/month cheaper in Elgin, saving renters about $3,300/year.

Median household income is $1,793/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Illinois.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Elgin — common questions

Is Aurora or Elgin cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Elgin is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Elgin?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $275/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Elgin?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $1,793/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Illinois?

Both cities are in Illinois and share the same state tax rates: 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Elgin?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Elgin has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,260/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Elgin, IL (2026)

Aurora

Elgin

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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