Grand Rapids, MI vs Aurora, IL: 79 vs 100

$1,191/mo ↓ 22%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 29%

$65,526/yr ↓ 27%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 38%

$225,500 ↓ 13%

Home Value

$260,400 ↑ 15%

$1,136/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 40%

197,768

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Grand Rapids, MI and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 79 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $344/month cheaper in Grand Rapids, saving renters about $4,128/year.

Median household income is $24,583/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Grand Rapids is $225,500 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Grand Rapids slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Grand Rapids vs Aurora — common questions

Is Grand Rapids or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Grand Rapids is cheaper to live in with an index of 79 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Grand Rapids and Aurora?

Median rent in Grand Rapids is $1,191/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $344/month.

Which city has higher income, Grand Rapids or Aurora?

Median household income is $65,526 in Grand Rapids and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $24,583/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Michigan and Illinois?

Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Grand Rapids or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Grand Rapids has a cost index of 79 with median rent of $1,191/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: Grand Rapids, MI vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Grand Rapids

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons