Aurora, IL vs Waco, TX: 100 vs 72

$1,535/mo ↑ 40%

Median Rent

$1,098/mo ↓ 28%

$90,109/yr ↑ 75%

Median Income

$51,468/yr ↓ 43%

$260,400 ↑ 30%

Home Value

$199,600 ↓ 23%

$1,591/mo ↑ 45%

Owner Costs

$1,094/mo ↓ 31%

179,867

Population

141,925

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $437/month cheaper in Waco, saving renters about $5,244/year.

Median household income is $38,641/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $199,600 in Waco.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Waco residents a significant tax advantage over Illinois's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Waco — common questions

Is Aurora or Waco cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Waco?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $437/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Waco?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $38,641/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Texas?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Waco?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Waco has a cost index of 72 with rent of $1,098/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Waco, TX (2026)

Aurora

Waco

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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