Aurora, IL vs Kent, WA: 100 vs 145

$1,535/mo ↓ 16%

Median Rent

$1,833/mo ↑ 19%

$90,109/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$90,416/yr ≈ Same

$260,400 ↓ 52%

Home Value

$537,500 ↑ 106%

$1,591/mo ↓ 17%

Owner Costs

$1,915/mo ↑ 20%

179,867

Population

135,015

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Kent, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 145 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $298/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $3,576/year.

Median household income is $307/year higher in Kent. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $537,500 in Kent.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Kent residents a significant tax advantage over Illinois's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Kent — common questions

Is Aurora or Kent cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 145 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Kent?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Kent it's $1,833/month — a difference of $298/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Kent?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $90,416 in Kent. Median household income is $307/year higher in Kent.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Washington?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Kent?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Kent has a cost index of 145 with rent of $1,833/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Kent, WA (2026)

Aurora

Kent

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons