Chattanooga, TN vs Aurora, IL: 81 vs 100

$1,155/mo ↓ 25%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 33%

$61,028/yr ↓ 32%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 48%

$259,200 ≈ Same

Home Value

$260,400 ≈ Same

$1,112/mo ↓ 30%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 43%

182,832

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chattanooga, TN and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 81 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $380/month cheaper in Chattanooga, saving renters about $4,560/year.

Median household income is $29,081/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chattanooga is $259,200 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chattanooga vs Aurora — common questions

Is Chattanooga or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chattanooga is cheaper to live in with an index of 81 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chattanooga and Aurora?

Median rent in Chattanooga is $1,155/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $380/month.

Which city has higher income, Chattanooga or Aurora?

Median household income is $61,028 in Chattanooga and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $29,081/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Illinois?

Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Chattanooga or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Chattanooga has a cost index of 81 with median rent of $1,155/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: Chattanooga, TN vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Chattanooga

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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