Fresno, CA vs Aurora, IL: 101 vs 100

$1,324/mo ↓ 14%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 16%

$66,804/yr ↓ 26%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 35%

$348,500 ↑ 34%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 25%

$1,391/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 14%

543,615

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fresno, CA and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 101 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $211/month cheaper in Fresno, saving renters about $2,532/year.

Median household income is $23,305/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fresno is $348,500 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fresno vs Aurora — common questions

Is Fresno or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 101 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fresno and Aurora?

Median rent in Fresno is $1,324/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $211/month.

Which city has higher income, Fresno or Aurora?

Median household income is $66,804 in Fresno and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $23,305/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between California and Illinois?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Fresno or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Fresno has a cost index of 101 with median rent of $1,324/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: Fresno, CA vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Fresno

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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