Aurora, IL vs Independence, MO: 100 vs 67

$1,535/mo ↑ 45%

Median Rent

$1,061/mo ↓ 31%

$90,109/yr ↑ 51%

Median Income

$59,480/yr ↓ 34%

$260,400 ↑ 56%

Home Value

$166,400 ↓ 36%

$1,591/mo ↑ 52%

Owner Costs

$1,046/mo ↓ 34%

179,867

Population

121,944

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $474/month cheaper in Independence, saving renters about $5,688/year.

Median household income is $30,629/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Independence — common questions

Is Aurora or Independence cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Independence is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Independence?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $474/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Independence?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $30,629/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Missouri?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Independence?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Independence has a cost index of 67 with rent of $1,061/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Independence, MO (2026)

Aurora

Independence

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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