Aurora, IL vs Wilmington, NC: 100 vs 100

$1,535/mo ↑ 17%

Median Rent

$1,311/mo ↓ 15%

$90,109/yr ↑ 41%

Median Income

$63,900/yr ↓ 29%

$260,400 ↓ 26%

Home Value

$350,300 ↑ 35%

$1,591/mo ↑ 16%

Owner Costs

$1,371/mo ↓ 14%

179,867

Population

118,578

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Wilmington, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $224/month cheaper in Wilmington, saving renters about $2,688/year.

Median household income is $26,209/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $350,300 in Wilmington.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Wilmington slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Wilmington — common questions

Is Aurora or Wilmington cheaper to live in?

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

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Wilmington?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Wilmington it's $1,311/month — a difference of $224/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Wilmington?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $63,900 in Wilmington. Median household income is $26,209/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and North Carolina?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Wilmington?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Wilmington has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,311/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Wilmington, NC (2026)

Aurora

Wilmington

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons