Aurora, IL vs Lowell, MA: 100 vs 119

$1,535/mo ↓ 4%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 4%

$90,109/yr ↑ 18%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↓ 15%

$260,400 ↓ 34%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 52%

$1,591/mo ↓ 5%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 5%

179,867

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $68/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $816/year.

Median household income is $13,904/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Lowell — common questions

Is Aurora or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Lowell?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $68/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Lowell?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $13,904/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Massachusetts?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Lowell has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,603/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Aurora

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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