Austin, TX vs Aurora, IL: 134 vs 100

$1,655/mo ↑ 8%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↓ 7%

$91,461/yr ↑ 2%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↓ 1%

$512,700 ↑ 97%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 49%

$1,747/mo ↑ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↓ 9%

967,862

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Austin, TX and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 134 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $120/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $1,440/year.

Median household income is $1,352/year higher in Austin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Austin is $512,700 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Austin vs Aurora — common questions

Is Austin or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 134 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Austin and Aurora?

Median rent in Austin is $1,655/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $120/month.

Which city has higher income, Austin or Aurora?

Median household income is $91,461 in Austin and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $1,352/year higher in Austin.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Illinois?

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

Should I move to Austin or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Austin has a cost index of 134 with median rent of $1,655/mo, while Aurora has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,535/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Austin

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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