Aurora, IL vs Thornton, CO: 100 vs 138

$1,535/mo ↓ 15%

Median Rent

$1,810/mo ↑ 18%

$90,109/yr ↓ 11%

Median Income

$100,985/yr ↑ 12%

$260,400 ↓ 46%

Home Value

$482,200 ↑ 85%

$1,591/mo ↓ 17%

Owner Costs

$1,914/mo ↑ 20%

179,867

Population

142,878

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Thornton, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 138 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $275/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $3,300/year.

Median household income is $10,876/year higher in Thornton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $482,200 in Thornton.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Thornton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Thornton — common questions

Is Aurora or Thornton cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 138 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Thornton?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Thornton it's $1,810/month — a difference of $275/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Thornton?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $100,985 in Thornton. Median household income is $10,876/year higher in Thornton.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Colorado?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Thornton?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Thornton has a cost index of 138 with rent of $1,810/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Thornton, CO (2026)

Aurora

Thornton

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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