Irvine, CA vs Aurora, IL: 256 vs 100

$2,893/mo ↑ 88%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↓ 47%

$129,647/yr ↑ 44%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↓ 30%

$1,115,400 ↑ 328%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 77%

$2,904/mo ↑ 83%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↓ 45%

308,160

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Irvine, CA and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 256 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,358/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $16,296/year.

Median household income is $39,538/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Irvine is $1,115,400 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Irvine vs Aurora — common questions

Is Irvine or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Irvine and Aurora?

Median rent in Irvine is $2,893/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $1,358/month.

Which city has higher income, Irvine or Aurora?

Median household income is $129,647 in Irvine and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $39,538/year higher in Irvine.

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 Irvine or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Irvine has a cost index of 256 with median rent of $2,893/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: Irvine, CA vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Irvine

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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