Aurora, IL vs Palmdale, CA: 100 vs 130

$1,535/mo ↓ 12%

Median Rent

$1,736/mo ↑ 13%

$90,109/yr ↑ 11%

Median Income

$81,151/yr ↓ 10%

$260,400 ↓ 40%

Home Value

$435,300 ↑ 67%

$1,591/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,831/mo ↑ 15%

179,867

Population

165,487

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Palmdale, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 130 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $201/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $2,412/year.

Median household income is $8,958/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $435,300 in Palmdale.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Palmdale — common questions

Is Aurora or Palmdale cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 130 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Palmdale?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Palmdale it's $1,736/month — a difference of $201/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Palmdale?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $81,151 in Palmdale. Median household income is $8,958/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 Palmdale?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Palmdale has a cost index of 130 with rent of $1,736/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Aurora

Palmdale

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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