Aurora, IL vs Elizabeth, NJ: 100 vs 112

$1,535/mo ↑ 5%

Median Rent

$1,463/mo ↓ 5%

$90,109/yr ↑ 41%

Median Income

$63,874/yr ↓ 29%

$260,400 ↓ 34%

Home Value

$393,500 ↑ 51%

$1,591/mo ↑ 3%

Owner Costs

$1,543/mo ↓ 3%

179,867

Population

135,887

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Elizabeth, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 112 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $72/month cheaper in Elizabeth, saving renters about $864/year.

Median household income is $26,235/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $393,500 in Elizabeth.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Elizabeth — common questions

Is Aurora or Elizabeth cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 112 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Elizabeth?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Elizabeth it's $1,463/month — a difference of $72/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Elizabeth?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $63,874 in Elizabeth. Median household income is $26,235/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and New Jersey?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Elizabeth?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Elizabeth has a cost index of 112 with rent of $1,463/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Elizabeth, NJ (2026)

Aurora

Elizabeth

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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