Aurora, IL vs Hayward, CA: 100 vs 200

$1,535/mo ↓ 35%

Median Rent

$2,360/mo ↑ 54%

$90,109/yr ↓ 21%

Median Income

$113,775/yr ↑ 26%

$260,400 ↓ 68%

Home Value

$820,700 ↑ 215%

$1,591/mo ↓ 34%

Owner Costs

$2,420/mo ↑ 52%

179,867

Population

159,201

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Hayward, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 200 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $825/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $9,900/year.

Median household income is $23,666/year higher in Hayward. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $820,700 in Hayward.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Hayward — common questions

Is Aurora or Hayward cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 200 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Hayward?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Hayward it's $2,360/month — a difference of $825/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Hayward?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $113,775 in Hayward. Median household income is $23,666/year higher in Hayward.

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 Hayward?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Hayward has a cost index of 200 with rent of $2,360/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Aurora

Hayward

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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