Aurora, IL vs Fort Collins, CO: 100 vs 137

$1,535/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$1,661/mo ↑ 8%

$90,109/yr ↑ 8%

Median Income

$83,598/yr ↓ 7%

$260,400 ↓ 53%

Home Value

$548,400 ↑ 111%

$1,591/mo ↓ 6%

Owner Costs

$1,692/mo ↑ 6%

179,867

Population

169,705

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Fort Collins, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $126/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $1,512/year.

Median household income is $6,511/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $548,400 in Fort Collins.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Fort Collins slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Fort Collins — common questions

Is Aurora or Fort Collins cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Fort Collins?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Fort Collins it's $1,661/month — a difference of $126/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Fort Collins?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $83,598 in Fort Collins. Median household income is $6,511/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Colorado?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Fort Collins?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Fort Collins has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,661/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Fort Collins, CO (2026)

Aurora

Fort Collins

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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