Chicago, IL vs Aurora, CO: 100 vs 130

$1,380/mo ↓ 22%

Median Rent

$1,759/mo ↑ 27%

$75,134/yr ↓ 11%

Median Income

$84,320/yr ↑ 12%

$315,200 ↓ 29%

Home Value

$444,500 ↑ 41%

$1,502/mo ↓ 15%

Owner Costs

$1,762/mo ↑ 17%

2,707,648

Population

390,201

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Aurora, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 130 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $379/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $4,548/year.

Median household income is $9,186/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $444,500 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Aurora — common questions

Is Chicago or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 130 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Aurora?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Aurora it's $1,759/month — a difference of $379/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Aurora?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $84,320 in Aurora. Median household income is $9,186/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Colorado?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Aurora has a cost index of 130 with rent of $1,759/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Aurora, CO (2026)

Chicago

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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