Aurora, IL vs Lafayette, LA: 100 vs 77

$1,535/mo ↑ 44%

Median Rent

$1,065/mo ↓ 31%

$90,109/yr ↑ 47%

Median Income

$61,454/yr ↓ 32%

$260,400 ↑ 4%

Home Value

$251,300 ↓ 3%

$1,591/mo ↑ 51%

Owner Costs

$1,057/mo ↓ 34%

179,867

Population

121,537

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Lafayette, LA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 77 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $470/month cheaper in Lafayette, saving renters about $5,640/year.

Median household income is $28,655/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $251,300 in Lafayette.

Louisiana has a lower income tax rate, making Lafayette slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Lafayette — common questions

Is Aurora or Lafayette cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lafayette is cheaper to live in with an index of 77 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Lafayette?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Lafayette it's $1,065/month — a difference of $470/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Lafayette?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $61,454 in Lafayette. Median household income is $28,655/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Louisiana?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Louisiana has 4.25% income tax, 4.45% sales tax, and 0.55% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Lafayette?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Lafayette has a cost index of 77 with rent of $1,065/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Lafayette, LA (2026)

Aurora

Lafayette

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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