Aurora, IL vs Meridian, ID: 100 vs 131

$1,535/mo ↓ 10%

Median Rent

$1,714/mo ↑ 12%

$90,109/yr ↓ 9%

Median Income

$98,686/yr ↑ 10%

$260,400 ↓ 46%

Home Value

$485,000 ↑ 86%

$1,591/mo ≈ Same

Owner Costs

$1,607/mo ↑ 1%

179,867

Population

124,865

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Meridian, ID, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 131 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $179/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $2,148/year.

Median household income is $8,577/year higher in Meridian. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $485,000 in Meridian.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Meridian — common questions

Is Aurora or Meridian cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 131 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Meridian?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Meridian it's $1,714/month — a difference of $179/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Meridian?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $98,686 in Meridian. Median household income is $8,577/year higher in Meridian.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Idaho?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Idaho has 5.8% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.63% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Meridian?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Meridian has a cost index of 131 with rent of $1,714/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Meridian, ID (2026)

Aurora

Meridian

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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