Chicago, IL vs Aurora, IL: 100 vs 100

$1,380/mo ↓ 10%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 11%

$75,134/yr ↓ 17%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 20%

$315,200 ↑ 21%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 17%

$1,502/mo ↓ 6%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 6%

2,707,648

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $155/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $1,860/year.

Median household income is $14,975/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Illinois.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Aurora — common questions

Is Chicago or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 100 (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 $1,535/month — a difference of $155/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Aurora?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $14,975/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Illinois?

Both cities are in Illinois and share the same state tax rates: 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% 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 100 with rent of $1,535/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Chicago

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons