Aurora, IL vs Lakeland, FL: 100 vs 82

$1,535/mo ↑ 18%

Median Rent

$1,299/mo ↓ 15%

$90,109/yr ↑ 48%

Median Income

$60,947/yr ↓ 32%

$260,400 ↑ 14%

Home Value

$229,100 ↓ 12%

$1,591/mo ↑ 38%

Owner Costs

$1,149/mo ↓ 28%

179,867

Population

117,030

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Lakeland, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 82 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $236/month cheaper in Lakeland, saving renters about $2,832/year.

Median household income is $29,162/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $229,100 in Lakeland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Lakeland — common questions

Is Aurora or Lakeland cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lakeland is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Lakeland?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Lakeland it's $1,299/month — a difference of $236/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Lakeland?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $60,947 in Lakeland. Median household income is $29,162/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Florida?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Lakeland?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Lakeland has a cost index of 82 with rent of $1,299/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Lakeland, FL (2026)

Aurora

Lakeland

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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