Indianapolis, IN vs Aurora, IL: 74 vs 100

$1,112/mo ↓ 28%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 38%

$62,995/yr ↓ 30%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 43%

$207,000 ↓ 21%

Home Value

$260,400 ↑ 26%

$1,124/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 42%

882,043

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Indianapolis, IN and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 74 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $423/month cheaper in Indianapolis, saving renters about $5,076/year.

Median household income is $27,114/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Indianapolis is $207,000 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

Indiana has a lower income tax rate, making Indianapolis slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Indianapolis vs Aurora — common questions

Is Indianapolis or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Indianapolis is cheaper to live in with an index of 74 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Indianapolis and Aurora?

Median rent in Indianapolis is $1,112/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $423/month.

Which city has higher income, Indianapolis or Aurora?

Median household income is $62,995 in Indianapolis and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $27,114/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Indiana and Illinois?

Indiana has 3.05% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Indianapolis or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Indianapolis has a cost index of 74 with median rent of $1,112/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: Indianapolis, IN vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Indianapolis

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons