Aurora, IL vs Topeka, KS: 100 vs 58

$1,535/mo ↑ 62%

Median Rent

$947/mo ↓ 38%

$90,109/yr ↑ 61%

Median Income

$55,902/yr ↓ 38%

$260,400 ↑ 99%

Home Value

$130,600 ↓ 50%

$1,591/mo ↑ 71%

Owner Costs

$930/mo ↓ 42%

179,867

Population

126,103

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Topeka, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 58 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $588/month cheaper in Topeka, saving renters about $7,056/year.

Median household income is $34,207/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $130,600 in Topeka.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Topeka — common questions

Is Aurora or Topeka cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Topeka is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Topeka?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Topeka it's $947/month — a difference of $588/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Topeka?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $55,902 in Topeka. Median household income is $34,207/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Kansas?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Topeka?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Topeka has a cost index of 58 with rent of $947/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Topeka, KS (2026)

Aurora

Topeka

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons