Aurora, IL vs Lakewood, CO: 100 vs 141

$1,535/mo ↓ 12%

Median Rent

$1,746/mo ↑ 14%

$90,109/yr ↑ 5%

Median Income

$85,789/yr ↓ 5%

$260,400 ↓ 52%

Home Value

$548,200 ↑ 111%

$1,591/mo ↓ 8%

Owner Costs

$1,729/mo ↑ 9%

179,867

Population

156,309

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Lakewood, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 141 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $211/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $2,532/year.

Median household income is $4,320/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $548,200 in Lakewood.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Lakewood slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Lakewood — common questions

Is Aurora or Lakewood cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 141 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Lakewood?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Lakewood it's $1,746/month — a difference of $211/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Lakewood?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $85,789 in Lakewood. Median household income is $4,320/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Colorado?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Lakewood?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Lakewood has a cost index of 141 with rent of $1,746/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Lakewood, CO (2026)

Aurora

Lakewood

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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