Columbus, OH vs Aurora, IL: 83 vs 100

$1,224/mo ↓ 20%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 25%

$65,327/yr ↓ 28%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 38%

$234,500 ↓ 10%

Home Value

$260,400 ↑ 11%

$1,243/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 28%

906,480

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbus, OH and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 83 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $311/month cheaper in Columbus, saving renters about $3,732/year.

Median household income is $24,782/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbus is $234,500 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Columbus slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbus vs Aurora — common questions

Is Columbus or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbus is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbus and Aurora?

Median rent in Columbus is $1,224/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $311/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbus or Aurora?

Median household income is $65,327 in Columbus and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $24,782/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Ohio and Illinois?

Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Columbus or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Columbus has a cost index of 83 with median rent of $1,224/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: Columbus, OH vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Columbus

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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