Aurora, IL vs Santa Maria, CA: 100 vs 137

$1,535/mo ↓ 17%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 20%

$90,109/yr ↑ 6%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 6%

$260,400 ↓ 46%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 84%

$1,591/mo ↓ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 12%

179,867

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $307/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $3,684/year.

Median household income is $5,492/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Aurora or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $307/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $5,492/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 Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Santa Maria has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,842/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Aurora

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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