Aurora, IL vs Lancaster, CA: 100 vs 124

$1,535/mo ↓ 9%

Median Rent

$1,696/mo ↑ 10%

$90,109/yr ↑ 18%

Median Income

$76,083/yr ↓ 16%

$260,400 ↓ 36%

Home Value

$409,100 ↑ 57%

$1,591/mo ↓ 9%

Owner Costs

$1,746/mo ↑ 10%

179,867

Population

170,013

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Lancaster, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 124 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $161/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $1,932/year.

Median household income is $14,026/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $409,100 in Lancaster.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Aurora slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Lancaster — common questions

Is Aurora or Lancaster cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 124 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Lancaster?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Lancaster it's $1,696/month — a difference of $161/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Lancaster?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $76,083 in Lancaster. Median household income is $14,026/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and California?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Lancaster?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Lancaster has a cost index of 124 with rent of $1,696/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Lancaster, CA (2026)

Aurora

Lancaster

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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