Aurora, IL vs Hartford, CT: 100 vs 81

$1,535/mo ↑ 26%

Median Rent

$1,221/mo ↓ 20%

$90,109/yr ↑ 99%

Median Income

$45,300/yr ↓ 50%

$260,400 ↑ 20%

Home Value

$217,200 ↓ 17%

$1,591/mo ↑ 24%

Owner Costs

$1,279/mo ↓ 20%

179,867

Population

119,970

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Hartford, CT, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 81 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $314/month cheaper in Hartford, saving renters about $3,768/year.

Median household income is $44,809/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $217,200 in Hartford.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Hartford — common questions

Is Aurora or Hartford cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Hartford is cheaper to live in with an index of 81 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Hartford?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Hartford it's $1,221/month — a difference of $314/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Hartford?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $45,300 in Hartford. Median household income is $44,809/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Connecticut?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Connecticut has 6.99% income tax, 6.35% sales tax, and 2.15% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Hartford?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Hartford has a cost index of 81 with rent of $1,221/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Hartford, CT (2026)

Aurora

Hartford

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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