Buffalo, NY vs Aurora, IL: 61 vs 100

$989/mo ↓ 36%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 55%

$48,050/yr ↓ 47%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 88%

$152,300 ↓ 42%

Home Value

$260,400 ↑ 71%

$929/mo ↓ 42%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 71%

276,397

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Buffalo, NY and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $546/month cheaper in Buffalo, saving renters about $6,552/year.

Median household income is $42,059/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Buffalo is $152,300 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Buffalo vs Aurora — common questions

Is Buffalo or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Buffalo is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Buffalo and Aurora?

Median rent in Buffalo is $989/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $546/month.

Which city has higher income, Buffalo or Aurora?

Median household income is $48,050 in Buffalo and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $42,059/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between New York and Illinois?

New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Buffalo or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Buffalo has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $989/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: Buffalo, NY vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Buffalo

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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